ethicalweddings.com

In my blogger profile, I wrote about how my experience with a callous, overpriced florist was one of the events that prompted to me to look for DIY alternatives for my wedding. I deservedly received a few chuckles from friends when I told them I was going to start growing my own flowers. For one, I was not blessed with a green thumb – I’ve been known to kill a cactus. And for two, I live in an urban apartment building with no outdoor space to speak of except for my fire escape.

So that’s exactly where I started my little potted flowers, and today I’m so excited to report my very first bright red poppy! This is just about the prettiest thing I’ve ever successfully grown, so I’m quite proud. Unfortunately, it’s going to take more than one poppy to create 5 bouquets and a dozen centerpieces so I’ve called for back-up.

I’m lucky to live not too far from California Organic Flowers who will be supplementing my decor with a wedding package of about 20 bunches of various flowers, freshly picked from their garden. I love that it’s a husband and wife team, and that I’ll be directly supporting the farmers (and their pesticide-free methods!)

There’s a growing number of sources for organic flowers for those who are interested. In the U.S. Organic Bouquet has been getting a lot of buzz, though they mainly specialize in gift bouquets. The UK’s answer to gifts of cut flowers is Organic Flower Company.

Local Harvest will help you find an organic flower farm in your area, if you’re in the U.S. And this organic food directory lists a number of UK options.

Fantastic… except for one thing. Now that I have this lovely flower, the idea of cutting it off and watching it wither makes me a little sad. I started wondering about whether it’s even ethical at all to use cut flowers. In retrospect I wish I’d maybe gone the potted plant route for centerpieces. It’s amazing how creating something gives you a whole new appreciation for its life.