Ecospheres are pretty amazing in my opinion.  They were originally developed by Nasa and are a completely closed and self-sustaining system.  Filled with algae, shrimp and bacteria an ecosphere truly is a miniature little world and requires minimal effort on the owner's part (no feeding required). They would make a pretty incredible and eco-friendly centerpiece for a green wedding, especially if paired with some votive candles and branches on a reception table.  I think they would look beautiful if contrasted against a dark navy or grey linen as well.  They can be purchased at Target, Brookstone and even on Amazon but unfortunately they run on the expensive side, starting at $60 for a 4 inch ecosphere and ranging up to $200. If you are on a tight budget and can't afford to buy one for each table you could always buy a few and place one on every other table or every third table as well. I think they would make a pretty amazing centerpiece and your guests could take them home after the reception and enjoy it throughout the year.

Images courtsey of Target, Amazon and Brookstone

If you are trying to think of ways to be more green with your wedding using potted plants instead of cut flowers in your décor is a less expensive and more sustainable choice. However, many couples worry about the style aspect of potted plants, especially because they tend to come in terra cotta pots.  While terra cotta pots are not necessary that stylish by themselves, look at all the things you can do with them!  I love these ideas because they allow you to get more creative and showcase more of your style and personality.

 Tie ribbons around the terra cotta pot

Paint them to give them a vintage feel

Surround them in birch or decorate with twine and other plants

Paint them plainly and still look how goregous they are with the right plant

Images courtsey of Country Ribbon, Catherine Lyons, Mrs Jones Painted Finishes, Accent they Party, Wedding Bee, The Knot and Northern Hollow

Monica and I are currently working with a client whose wedding reception is this Spring. The groom’s aunt owns a lavender farm outside of Seattle, Washington and we have been playing with various design ideas and ways in which we can incorporate lavender into their reception.  These images have been inspiring us.  I love the idea of potted lavender plants but then I also love the centerpiece that mixes lavender with mint!  It just sounds and looks so delicious!  What do you think?

Images courtsey of: Flickr, Wedding Bee, My wedding flower ideas, DIY weddings, and Entertaining Anytime

Spring is here and I have flower blossoms on my mind.  In exploring ideas for spring inspired centerpieces, I stumbled across these adorable cherry and plum blossom stems with LED lights.  These silk flowers from the Fireworks Gallery come in 8 dozen bunches, and can be purchased in a variety colors.  For a fresh centerpiece idea try bundling a few dozen stems together in a tall vase, and use their illuminated LED's for lighting. 

Images courtesy of Fireworks Gallery

Monica and I are currently planning a green wedding reception in Seattle with a strict budget.  We have been exploring various eco-friendly centerpiece and favor ideas and I just can't let go of the idea of using herbs! The groom comes from a large Italian family and they will be serving Italian food to all their guests. Herb and moss centerpieces seem like the perfect fit for this reception given their low cost and compliment to the Italian food.  These images have been inspiring me. What do you think? We would love to know your thoughts!

You can even have a living moss ring pillow!

Images courtsey of Hip Hostess, Intimate Wedding, Snippet and Ink, Harrison Events,

In the Now Weddings, Amelia Occasions, Wedding Number Three,

Main Wedding Photographer and Kaboodle