Here are just a few ideas for how couples can bring an environmentally-friendly focus to their ceremony and reception.

CWN: What inspired the creation of Organic Weddings?

MK: The real inspiration was Kira, my daughter, because when I was pregnant with her I was doing a lot of research on how to have a healthy and natural pregnancy, and I learned a lot about the environmental impact that pollution has on children. I wanted to do something to make the world better for her, but a lot of what I found was heavy-handed, focusing on the detrimental side of environmental concerns. I realized that people responded better to the positive side of the environmental issues, and they want to know how they can help. I decided to focus on the celebratory aspect of raising awareness, and Organic Weddings was a step towards this goal.

CWN: What social trends led to the development of Organic Weddings?

MK: One thing I think is really powerful is an individual's ability to affect change by what they purchase and don't purchase. The wedding industry is the pinnacle of where people spend money on things they wouldn't ordinarily purchase. But, people are also trying to find more meaning in their lives today, and the wedding industry is turning an important corner as couples are trying to see how they can help others with the dollars they are putting into their wedding.

CWN: What patterns or trends have you observed in terms of eco-friendly weddings?

MK: I always felt very strongly that the need and interest are there, but people are embracing it in ways I hadn't expected. I haven't had to do much primary education or convincing; it's something people already want to do and know about, and it reflects who they are. A lot of brides do not identify with the bridal magazines, and Organic Weddings reflects who they are much more. Couples who are concerned about social and environmental issues don't want to put it aside for a day, so it's refreshing for people to be able to support companies and products that reflect their values.

At the same time, brides expect their weddings to look a certain way, and to have some element of tradition. We help brides to craft a wedding that will incorporate the traditions they want to incorporate, while still reflecting their personal values. We recognize that it's a compromise.

In Their Own Words: "ERI seeks to change the power dynamic between local peoples and multinational corporations by giving people a voice and a say, and by holding corporations accountable for the damage they do while turning a profit. While ERI works on these issues internationally, we never forget that our work has to do with individual people. The natural environment has no borders, and our human rights know no nationality; we must strive to promote and protect earth rights everywhere."

Through the I Do Foundation, Thomas and Atossa created a donation registry which allowed their guests to make donations to Amazon Watch, an organization founded by Atossa where she serves as executive director and Thomas is the special operations manager. The couple viewed their wedding as an opportunity to raise money for a cause close to their hearts, but also as a way to involve family and friends with their personal commitment to the environment.

"We appreciate gifts that give to the whole planet," says Thomas. Atossa explains further, "We decided to support Amazon Watch because we're walking the talk." She and Thomas have agreed that it is important to show friends and family their dedication to the environment on the day of their union. By giving their guests the option of making donations, they are including them in their commitment, both to each other and to their cause.

I Do Foundation
The I Do Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC, whose mission is to bring a charitable focus to special life events. The Foundation helps engaged couples raise charitable wedding donations through three channels:

Gift Registry: When couples register with our partners-including Target, Linens 'N Things and Amazon.com-up to 8% of all spending is donated.
Travel: The I Do Foundation's partner, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, donates 5% of all honeymoon packages and 4% of guest hotel lodging purchases.
Donation Registry: With our flexible Donation Registry, guests can make a donation directly to charity in place of, or in addition to, traditional gifts.