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Updated Mar 06, 202516 Sustainable Wedding Gifts You'll Feel Good About Giving
Gifts so good, even Mother Nature approves.
Photos, clockwise: Caraway, The Knot Registry Store, Minna, The Knot Registry Store
Attend a wedding with a gift that says, "I care about you and the planet." Sustainable wedding gifts aren't only kind to the earth; they come with stories as unique as the couple themselves. From hand-crafted wonders to fair trade-certified treasures and gifts made from recycled materials, our curated list explores eco-friendly options that redefine wedding gift etiquette for engaged couples. Plus, here's some good news: if the couple is registered through The Knot, our store features numerous environmentally conscious brands, making it a breeze to snag the perfect wedding gift. These stand out as the best eco-friendly wedding gifts, promising joy for you, the couple and Mother Earth.
In this article:
What Are Some Popular Sustainable Brands?
Curious about which sustainable brands are making waves in the world of eco-friendly wedding gifts? We've got you covered. Dive into this section as we spotlight some popular brands that promise both style and sustainability in every thoughtful item they offer.
Boll & Branch
Boll & Branch is a renowned luxury bedding brand celebrated for its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. The brand sources organic cotton, which is cultivated without the use of harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers and prioritizes fair trade and responsible manufacturing to ensure equitable treatment of workers throughout the production process. From sumptuous sheets and duvet covers to cozy throws and plush towels, the brand focuses on delivering both comfort and craftsmanship. This dedication is evident as their award-winning products—the Down Alternative Pillow Insert, Waffle Bed Blanket and Spa 6-Piece Bath Sheet Set—were recognized as The Knot Registry Award winners in 2023.
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GreenPan
As the name suggests, GreenPan specializes in non-toxic and eco-friendly cookware. The brand is particularly celebrated for its ceramic non-stick coating, which provides a healthier alternative to cooking without harmful chemicals. Not to mention, GreenPan incorporates recycled materials throughout its products, boasting durability and heat distribution. Additionally, the company strives to use responsibly sourced materials in its manufacturing processes. So, whether you're shopping for one frying pan, a 12-piece cookware set or even a griddle as a wedding gift, you'll be contributing to a more sustainable and health-conscious culinary experience.
Zwilling J.A. Henckels
Established in 1731, Zwilling J.A. Henckels is renowned for crafting exceptional kitchen knives and cutlery, making them a timeless choice for wedding gifts. Their Graphite 14-Piece Self-Sharpening Knife Block Set was another pick for the 2023 The Knot Registry Awards. Beyond product excellence, Zwilling is committed to sustainability with a comprehensive four-point plan focusing on product development, energy efficiency, supply chain responsibility and employee and community wellbeing. Noteworthy initiatives include FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification, combating food waste with innovative vacuum systems and achieving plastic-free cutlery packaging, saving an impressive 13 million items annually. The icing on top? Zwilling aims to be climate-neutral by 2030, demonstrating a holistic approach to environmental responsibility.
Paravel
If you're looking for a wedding gift for environmentally-conscious travelers, Paravel offers chic and sustainable luggage. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in the use of upcycled materials, including carbon-neutral suitcases made from water cooler jugs, as well as duffles, backpacks and packing cubes crafted from post-consumer plastic bottles. Paravel's dedication to eco-friendly practices is further reinforced by certifications from Climate Neutral and OEKO-Tex Standard 100. Additionally, their partnerships with Gold Standard and Global Recycled Standard ensure that every aspect of the brand, from manufacturing to shipping and promotion, adheres to high eco-conscious standards.
The North Face
As the world's leading outdoor brand, The North Face creates athlete-tested, expedition-proven products that are perfect wedding gifts for adventurous couples. From durable jackets to versatile backpacks and camping equipment, they offer reliable gear for those looking to explore the great outdoors. As such, they're committed to protecting nature through multiple brand sustainability initials. Embracing circularity, The North Face is reimagining how gear is made and disposed of responsibly, giving old gear new life for new adventures. They plan to use 100% recycled or responsibly sourced materials in apparel by 2025 and in footwear and equipment by 2030. Additionally, The North Face is actively working to eliminate single-use plastic packaging by 2025, emphasizing recyclable materials in other forms of packaging. They're also partnering with key suppliers to reduce supply chain greenhouse gas emissions.
The Best Eco-Friendly Wedding Gifts You Can Buy Online
Discovering the perfect eco-friendly wedding gifts has never been easier. Dive into our curated selection of the best sustainable wedding gifts available online, ensuring both thoughtfulness and environmental consciousness for the newlyweds.
1. Coyuchi Cloud Soft Organic Sateen Sheet Set
Photo: The Knot Registry Store
Coyuchi's commitment to sustainability and quality is epitomized in their Cloud Soft Organic Sateen Sheet Set. It includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet and pillowcases—perfect for couples enhancing their linen collections. What sets it apart is the use of GOTS and Fair Trade-certified organic cotton, ensuring not only a touch of California-inspired comfort but also a commitment to ethical and eco-friendly practices that resonate with the couple's values.
2. Buffy Cloud Comforter
Photo: Buffy
Buffy's Cloud Comforter isn't just an exceptionally fluffy and breathable bedding option, it's environmentally conscious. The brand uses plastic bottles diverted from landfills and oceans to create the filling and a eucalyptus TENCEL lyocell fiber for the fabric. Together, they create a hypoallergenic, machine-washable, breathable and temperature-regulating comforter that's suitable for all seasons. Buffy's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the product itself: from reducing water consumption and carbon emissions in the manufacturing process to utilizing FSC-certified recycled materials for packaging, its pieces are quite the sustainable wedding gift idea.
3. Boll & Branch Waffle Bed Blanket
Photo: The Knot Registry Store
Newlywed life is all about cuddles, and the Boll & Branch Waffle Bed Blanket is here to elevate those cozy moments. More than just a blanket, this environmentally friendly wedding gift reflects Boll & Branch's dedication to transforming bedding with a harmonious blend of quality and sustainability. Made from long-staple 100% organic cotton, the blanket is meticulously crafted without toxins, ensuring complete traceability and compliance with international standards for organic farming. The lovebirds will appreciate not only the breathable, high-quality waffle fabric but also the extra-large size, making this versatile blanket a decorative, luxurious and eco-conscious choice for their home.
4. Material The (grippy) reBoard
Photo: Material
This cutting board isn't just any old slice-and-dice surface; it's a green revolution in the kitchen. BPA-free and drafted from 75% recycled polypropylene, it breathes new life into materials that might have otherwise gone to waste. The addition of silicone pop corners ensures stability during food preparation, adding a touch of safety to their kitchen endeavors. This practical and thoughtful gift not only serves a functional purpose but also symbolizes a commitment to a greener lifestyle. It'll perfectly complement their sustainable meal prep.
5. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Graphite 14-Piece Self-Sharpening Knife Block Set
Photo: The Knot Registry Store
A stylish and eco-conscious addition to the countertop, this essential kitchen tool promises to last as long as the couple's happily ever after (AKA a lifetime). Zwilling J.A. Henckels' is on a mission to reduce waste through high-quality products that'll eliminate the need for replacements and plastic-free cutlery packaging. The block set features six steak knives, a paring knife, two utility knives, a Santoku knife, a bread knife, a chef's knife and a pair of kitchen shears, all crafted from premium stainless steel and organized in a self-sharpening block.
6. Caraway Non-Toxic Squareware Set
Photo: Caraway
Caraway is more than a tastemaker in kitchen aesthetics (peep their pots and pans' fun colorways). The brand is leading the charge in sustainable cookware. This set stocks the couple's cabinets with a square griddle pan, a square grill pan, a rectangular double burner griddle and a roasting pan and rack. Each is made from ceramic and ensures toxin-free cooking by eliminating substances like PFOA, PFAS, lead and cadmium. Beyond its health benefits, the set's non-stick surface, stackable design and eco-friendly packaging make it a brilliant wedding gift.
7. GreenPan Valencia Pro 11-Piece Non-Stick Hard Anodized Aluminum Cookware Set
Photo: The Knot Registry Set
Recognized with the 2023 Good Housekeeping Sustainable Innovation Award, GreenPan's set of pots and pans underwent rigorous testing to prove their eco-excellence. Each piece is made from certified recycled aluminum and is free from PFAS, PFOA, lead and cadmium. They're a dream to cook with too. Each piece features a Thermolon Minerals Pro diamond-infused coating that provides metal utensil-safe durability and ensures even heating so the couple can sear and brown with ease. They'll never reach for another brand's cookware again.
8. Made In Rectangular Baking Dish
Photo: Made In
Shopping for a couple that loves to bake? Their brownies will turn out perfectly crisp and gooey in the middle thanks to this cute baking dish. The porcelain is microwave- and oven-safe up to 650 degrees and is even thermal shock resistant so it can go from the freezer to the oven to the table and back again. Our favorite part, though, is Made In's Recycling Program. The company has partnered with select Habitat for Humanity Restores in the United States so that couples can upgrade their kitchens with Made In products, knowing their old cookware will be recycled.
9. Glasslock 18-Piece Glass Storage Container Set with Lids
Photo: The Knot Registry Store
If there's one thing that's often forgotten on a couple's wedding registry, it's food storage containers. Luckily, you have a sustainable solution. Created from natural components, these containers are not only recyclable but also free from BPA and harmful hormones. They're versatile, being safe for use in the oven, microwave and freezer. The glass design is both stain and odor-resistant and with snap-top airtight lids, these containers keep food fresh and leak-free. It's a practical and eco-friendly addition to the couple's kitchen essentials.
10. West Elm Glass Decanter with Wood Stopper
Photo: West Elm
Elevate the couple's barware collection with either this eco-friendly wine or whiskey decanter. It's not only a stylish addition, but a sustainably sourced and Fair Trade Certified gift idea. Not to mention: a beautiful and ethical way for the newlyweds to savor their favorite drink together. If this isn't exactly what you're looking for, sort through all of West Elm's luxe products by whether they're locally made, handcrafted, fair trade certified and sustainably sourced.
11. Minna Panalito Placemat Cream
Photo: Minna
As the finishing touch to intimate dinners as newlyweds or the prettiest dinner parties, placemats add an extra layer of charm and sophistication to every occasion—and these cream-colored table mats from Minna double down by being environmentally friendly. Handwoven with care they support local artisans in Guatemala and ensure minimal environmental impact through ethically sourced and eco-friendly materials. If you're feeling generous, you can pair the placemats with a matching table runner.
12. Boll & Branch Spa 6-Piece Bath Sheet Set
Photo: Boll & Branch
Ditch the towel-sharing conundrum and gift the newlyweds the ultimate bath luxury with Boll & Branch's Spa 6-Piece Bath Sheet Set. This comprehensive set, comprising two bath sheets, two hand towels and two washcloths, is crafted from 100% organic cotton. The linens are not only lightweight and dreamily soft but also feature a clever woven channeled pattern for superior absorbency. Gift them the experience of pure comfort and sustainable elegance for their relaxation and rejuvenation routine.
13. Monos Carry-On
Photo: Monos
The most stylish way to travel is with an earth-friendly suitcase. Designed with aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate that incorporates partially recycled materials and anti-microbial lining made from 100% recycled polyester, this hard shell suitcase is both durable and sustainable. Couples will really enjoy the ease of rolling through the airport with 360° spinner wheels, an adjustable telescopic handle and a TSA-approved combination lock too.
14. Paravel 15" Weekender Duffel Bag
Photo: The Knot Registry Store
Perfect for those spontaneous three-day romantic escapes, this lightweight luggage is a The Knot Registry Award winner thanks to its style, functionality and eco-friendliness. Packed with interior zip pockets, an adjustable shoulder strap and a stain-repellent coasting, it's the bag of weekenders' dreams. Best of all, it's made from upcycled plastic bottles and vegan leather. Gift them the joy of wanderlust with a sprinkle of sustainable flair.
15. Patagonia Organic Cotton Towel
Photo: Patagonia
Patagonia is deeply aware that every product they create has an impact on the planet. That's why they've been a leader in environmental activism. Their commitment is evident through the use of sustainable materials in all their clothing and gear, their emphasis on fair labor practices, with certain products being Fair Trade Certified, and their trade-back initiative for second-hand Patagonia products. The company even donates one percent of its profits to support the preservation and restoration of the natural environment. As a leading force for positive change, Patagonia is an excellent choice for wedding gifts, especially for an outdoorsy couple. The organic cotton towel recommended here is a perfect accessory for their honeymoon, whether they're into water sports or simply seeking a top-notch towel for poolside relaxation. Make sure to get one for each of them.
16. The North Face Stormbreak 3-Person Tent
Photo: The North Face
The North Face is widely recognized for its dedication to environmental conservation, employing eco-friendly materials and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. So, you know any of their products would make an excellent sustainable wedding gift for an adventurous couple. Our pick: a tent with enough room for the newlyweds and their furry friend. The durable tent is equipped with large doors for easy access, an easy-pitch design, fully seam-taped canopy and floor, ample headroom, multi-configuration vestibules and high-low ventilation for optimal airflow. The TLDR, it'll ensure the coziest shelter during their nature escapades.
