At Ruby & Elene Bridal, we believe that your wedding day should not only reflect your love and commitment but also your values—especially when it comes to sustainability. We’re Michelle and Ashley, the founders of Ruby & Elene Bridal, and our boutique is deeply inspired by our grandmothers—Ruby, Michelle’s great-grandmother, and Elene, Ashley’s grandmother. Both were gifted seamstresses and artists with a love for design and beauty, a legacy that continues to guide us in curating timeless, sustainable pieces for the modern bride.
With a combined eight years in the wedding industry, we have had the privilege of working with hundreds of amazing brides. Along the way, we were inspired to offer brides a different kind of experience—one that honors the planet without compromising on style. We’re here to help brides make beautiful, sustainable choices for their big day, so here are 7 ways to be a more sustainable bride, inspired by the same values that guided Ruby and Elene.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Fabrics
The fabric of your bridal gown makes a significant impact on your wedding's environmental footprint. At Ruby & Elene Bridal, we offer dresses made from eco-friendly fabrics like linen, silk, cotton, and hemp. These materials not only feel luxurious but are also biodegradable, unlike polyester, which can take up to 200 years to decompose. By choosing sustainable fabrics, you’re making a responsible choice for both yourself and the planet.
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses
We strive to collaborate with women-owned, sustainable brands that create high-quality, ethical products. By choosing independent designers, you’re not only supporting female creatives but also reducing the dominance of mass-produced fast fashion in the wedding industry. Supporting small businesses helps empower women and promotes sustainable practices.
3. Think About the Lifespan of Your Dress
Instead of letting your wedding gown sit in a closet after the big day, think about ways to give it a second life. Whether you donate, sell, or upcycle your dress, you can ensure it doesn’t contribute to unnecessary waste. Some brides even turn their wedding dresses into keepsakes like pillowcases or baby clothes, preserving the memories in a meaningful way.
4. Choose Vintage or Second-Hand
Vintage and second-hand wedding dresses are an eco-conscious choice that adds character to your wedding look. By purchasing pre-loved dresses, you’re not only reducing waste but also getting a one-of-a-kind gown. Plus, many pre-owned dresses are in excellent condition, and buying them is a great way to honor timeless beauty and craftsmanship.
5. Opt for Simple, Timeless Designs
Timeless designs are sustainable by nature. Choosing a wedding gown and accessories that are classic and elegant will ensure they remain relevant and wearable for years to come. You won’t feel pressured to buy something trendy that might quickly fall out of style. Instead, invest in pieces that will always make you feel beautiful and confident.
6. Consider the Impact of Your Accessories
When it comes to accessories, sustainability matters too. Reuse family heirlooms, borrow pieces from friends, or shop for ethical brands that use recycled or upcycled materials. Sustainable accessories help complement your overall look and support conscious production.
7. Minimize Waste on Your Wedding Day
Sustainability doesn’t stop with your dress and accessories. On your wedding day, you can reduce waste by opting for eco-friendly decor, locally sourced food, and sustainable floral arrangements. Many venues now offer packages that emphasize sustainability, allowing you to have a celebration that’s as thoughtful as it is beautiful.
As you start planning your sustainable wedding,
We hope these tips help inspire you to create a wedding that’s as sustainable as it is beautiful. At Ruby & Elene Bridal, we’re passionate about making sure that every bride can feel confident, elegant, and aligned with her values. Just as our grandmothers, Ruby and Elene, embraced beauty and craftsmanship, we’re here to help you carry that legacy forward in a way that honors the planet and supports the incredible women in the bridal industry.
We’re excited to be part of your journey, and we’re here to help you find the perfect sustainable pieces that make your day as special as your love.
Blessings,
Michelle & Ashley
Founders, Ruby & Elene Bridal