You’re engaged! Congratulations! As you start to plan your wedding, you may be wondering if you should have a vegan wedding. Maybe you and your partner are vegan, or maybe you’re just considering a plant-based diet and want to extend that to your wedding day. Either way, you’re not alone. In recent years, there’s been a growing trend of couples opting for vegan weddings. And it makes sense—why not celebrate your love with a meal that doesn’t harm animals or the environment? If you’re on the fence, read on for some pros and cons to help you make your decision.
What is a vegan wedding?
A vegan wedding is a plant-based party where no animal products are used. This includes avoiding all food and drink made from animals, as well as using only cruelty-free personal care and cleaning products. Veganism is a way of living that seeks to exclude, as far as is possible and practicable, all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose.
The Planning Process
You’re not only joining the ever-growing ranks of people embracing a plant-based lifestyle, but you’re also setting a compassionate example for your guests. But let’s not pretend the planning process can’t get tricky.
Here are a few tips:
1. Start with the basics: A vegan wedding is one where no animal products are used, including in the food, decorations, and even guest gifts.
2. Work with vendors who understand your vision: When it comes to finding vendors who can help make your dreams a reality, it’s important to seek out those who share your values and vision. Fortunately, there are more and more businesses popping up that cater to vegans, so this shouldn’t be too difficult.
3. Get creative with the menu: Just because you’re planning a vegan wedding doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the food! There are plenty of delicious plant-based dishes out there that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. Get creative and work with your caterer or chef to come up with a menu that everyone will love.
4. Consider alternative (and cruelty-free!) ways to decorate: From hanging paper lanterns made from recycled materials to using potted plants as centerpieces, there are endless ways to decorate your wedding venue in a way that’s both beautiful and earth-friendly.
Vegan wedding menu ideas
When it comes to wedding menu ideas, there are endless possibilities for delicious plant-based dishes.
Starters: Crisp vegetable crudités with a cashew-based dipping sauce, mushroom pâté on crostini, roasted beet salad with orange vinaigrette
Main course: Vegan lasagna with roasted vegetables, tempeh “chicken” parmesan with spaghetti squash, seitan “beef” wellington with mashed potatoes and gravy
Dessert: Dark chocolate truffles, raspberry sorbet, carrot cake with vegan cream cheese frosting.
Of course, these are just a few ideas – the sky is the limit when it comes to creating a delicious and memorable vegan wedding menu.
Alternative wedding cake options for vegans
One popular option is a naked cake, which is a simple cake that is not iced or decorated. Naked cakes are often adorned with fresh fruit or flowers, making them a beautiful and natural choice for a vegan wedding cake.
Another popular option is a raw cake made with ingredients like nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables. Raw cakes are often layered with frostings made from cashews or avocados, making them rich and creamy without the use of dairy products.
For something truly unique, you could even opt for a savory wedding cake made with veggies, beans, tofu, or tempeh. These savory cakes are often decorated with edible flowers or herbs, making them both beautiful and delicious.
Wedding dress options
When it comes to vegan wedding dress options, there are more and more designers offering beautiful, sustainable gowns for eco-conscious brides. Here are a few of our favorite vegan wedding dress designers:
1. Cossac: Cossac is a UK-based brand that creates gorgeous, modern wedding dresses made from luxurious vegan materials. Their dresses are ethically made in Europe and can be customized to your specific measurements for a perfect fit.
2. Delphine Manivet: French designer Delphine Manivet is well-known for her bohemian-chic wedding gowns. All of her designs can be made with vegan fabrics upon request, making her a great option for eco-friendly brides.
3. Viva bride: Viva Bride is an Australian label specializing in ethical, environmentally friendly wedding dresses. Their stunning gowns are made from certified organic cotton and other sustainable materials like bamboo and hemp silk.
4. Willow by Watters: Willow by Watters is a new line from the popular bridal brand Watters. The collection features beautiful, modern gowns made from sustainable fabrics like Tencel lyocell, recycled polyester, and organic cotton.
5. Saja Wedding: Saja Wedding is a US-based label that offers a wide range of stylish wedding dresses made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo viscose, soy silk, and organic cotton. Their designs are perfect for both
Vegan weddings are not only environmentally friendly, but they can also be more economical than traditional weddings. Plus, with careful planning, your vegan wedding can be just as beautiful and memorable as any other kind of wedding. So go ahead and start planning your perfect plant-based party. Having a vegan reception shouldn’t be difficult—and we’re here to help. Contact us today to help you plan your big day!