When it comes to eco-chic ceremonies and receptions, trying to be totally green is a tall order, but there are lots of small steps you can take. Cut flowers, for instance, are a wedding staple but not a very earth-friendly option. “Once you cut a flower, it starts the process of dying,” says florist Glenn Wolski of Stem. & Co. in Upper Montclair (973-746-1000; stemandcompany.com). “Anything with a root system is more eco-friendly because it can be planted after your wedding instead of thrown away.” Think potted flowers or plants instead. If your heart is set on cut flowers, consider blooms that are pesticide-free and locally grown, which will cut down on the environmental impact of having them trucked or shipped from far away.

“The beach can be a really cool renewable resource for an eco-friendly wedding,” says LaMorte. For a “nautical meets preppy” vibe, try a palette of blue and white with a pop of yellow, she says. To create a romantic tablescape without relying on cut flowers, start with denim linens (available at partyrentalltd.com) instead of synthetics, and group soy candles, some floating in clear, shell-filled vases and others perched inside containers of dyed-blue water. A white vase with a seashell motif, which can be reused in your home or given as a gift, and large seashells as napkin holders emphasize the seaside feel.

In another twist on green and gorgeous, LaMorte and Wolski utilized natural components including succulents, which can be enjoyed long after your wedding day, river rocks, and soil to create an earthy atmosphere. For tablecloths, they used natural, undyed burlap. “Burlap can be luxurious when paired with beautiful rented earthenware dishes,” notes LaMorte. Wolski found the driftwood accent on the beach. “It’s great because you’re not cutting or harming anything,” he says. All-natural beeswax candles and engraved stones on a bed of moss at each place setting complete the look. “The stones can be etched with a guest’s name or a word like ‘love’ or ‘happiness,’” says LaMorte. “Use them as escort cards, place cards, or favors. They’re a fun, unexpected keepsake from the earth.” Etched stones are available at etsy.com/shop/sjengraving.com.