Similar to the Slow Flower and Slow Food movements, which swept both industries with their concept of locally sourced products and support for small businesses, The Slow Weddings Movement is quickly gaining ground with couples across the country. Encouraging brides and grooms to think locally and sustainably, The Slow Weddings theory supports a more personal, memorable experience that encourages an enjoyable planning process, ultimately resulting in a celebration with distinctive style and individual touch.
Arrangement from Slow Weddings vendor Teresa Sabankaya of Boony Doon Garden Company
To provide further insight to the movement and the organization that’s supporting it, we sat down with the founder of the Slow Weddings Network, Aimée Newlander.
Describe the “Slow Weddings” movement. Can you explain the inspiration behind building the Slow Weddings Network?
Slow Weddings sprouted from my wedding planning business where, with twenty years of background in health and wellness, I created a ‘mindful planning’ approach to weddings. There’s sort of a universal acceptance that you won’t eat, relax, mingle or even remember most of your wedding day.We have been working with venues, vendors and couples to change this mentality.
Cupcakes from Slow Weddings vendor Buttercup Cakes & Farmhouse Frosting
What criteria is important to qualify as a “slow wedding” vendor in your network?
The members, which include everything from venues and artisans, to beekeepers (honey favors!) and yoga and massage practitioners, have all taken “Wedding Vows” which helps ensure quality. All of our members are dedicated to supporting local small businesses and collectively understand that all vendors, no matter the level of involvement, contribute to the success of a wedding. We want the couple to have their vision supported and to have a day they remember forever.
How is the experience different when planning a “slow wedding” as opposed to a typical wedding?
Working with a team of vendors that support the concept is important, including a knowledgeable wedding planner to remind you to slow down and to provide guidance.
You don’t need to spend more time planning a ‘slow wedding.’ The big piece is prioritizing involvement in your wedding day and not swaying from your vision.
What are brides most surprised by when they start planning a wedding using “slow wedding” vendors?
I think what couples are most surprised or happy about is that it results in a day that totally reflects who they are. They had a blast and all of their guests did too!
What type of Bride is most drawn to this?
I’ve met with over 500 couples and all of them in some capacity love the idea of learning how they can stay within their wedding budget while supporting local artisans and professional businesses.
What makes this network different than others we’ve seen?
Our network is supported by Slow Flowers & Slow Food movements, which means a lot to us! What makes this network different is that it is not about competition between vendors. It has a grass roots marketing business model, and a Board of Directors that are totally dedicated to the Slow Weddings movement. Couples need a resource for finding these businesses, and the businesses need a tool for reaching those couples.
Floral arrangement by Slow Weddings vendor Karla’s Kreations located at OVY Camp Venue
Follow the Slow Weddings Network on Instagram!
