In the wedding industry, the cycle of buying new, using once, and then discarding creates unnecessary waste and expense. As part of our commitment to driving change and promoting sustainable practices, we encourage all SWA members to move beyond recycling and implement a Resource Sharing Policy.
This is a powerful action that combats consumption, conserves materials, and fosters collaboration over competition within our community.
The Power of Shared Resources
A Resource Sharing Policy is simply a structured way to ensure props, decor, materials, and even tools are reused or repurposed within the community rather than being purchased new for every single event. This aligns perfectly with the principles of Secondhand September and strengthens your wedding business by demonstrating impact by reducing waste.
Practical Steps for Different Businesses
Implementing a policy will look slightly different depending on your sector. Choose the approach that best suits your business model:
For Venues and Planners (Custodians of Decor)
- Create an Inventory: Start by cataloguing all items commonly used in weddings (e.g., easels, vases, linen, ceremony seating) that are currently stored or often discarded.
- Establish a Lending/Hiring Library: Formalise a system where couples or hired suppliers can rent these items from your existing inventory. This provides a minor revenue stream and significantly reduces the need for new purchases for basic decor.
- Supplier Collaboration: Work with your preferred florists and stylists to see what items they can loan or share for events at your venue, such as high-quality plinths or arches, minimising transport and storage.
For Florists and Stylists (Creative Material Users)
- Vase and Container Return Scheme: Implement a refundable deposit scheme for vases, containers, and ceramic pots. This encourages clients and venues to return items post-event so you can reuse them for future bookings.
- Prop Swaps: Actively participate in prop-sharing groups or organise private swaps with trusted SWA members. Share reusable items like fabric backdrops, signage frames, or candle holders instead of buying new stock for every trending theme.
- Sustainable Packaging Reuse: Establish a process for your own material supply chain, ensuring buckets, boxes, and protective wrapping are returned to wholesalers or reused internally.
For Photographers, Stationery Designers, and Bakers (Minimal Material Waste)
- Equipment Sharing: If you have large or specialised equipment (e.g., lighting stands, large-format printers), establish a co-operative system to loan these out to trusted peers, avoiding the need for multiple purchases within the local community.
- Sample Reuse: For stationery, create a clear process for recycling or reusing paper and card scraps from samples. For bakers, focus on donating or freezing edible leftovers, rather than discarding them.
Ready to stop buying new and start sharing together?
Implementing a Resource Sharing Policy is a powerful action that demonstrates integrity, reduces your environmental footprint, and strengthens your local community.
Take Action Now: Start by identifying just three reusable items in your business that could be formally shared or loaned out next season. For members, jump over to the Membership Platform and read our guide on setting up formal lending contracts and inventory tracking.
