Aveda & Gary Manuel Eco-Friendly Bridal Event

By Samrah Qureshi

Gary Manuel Salon in Downtown Seattle played host to Aveda’s ongoing nationwide bridal series that promotes eco-friendly weddings. The June 21^st event saw many brides-to-be scouting out vendors that ranged from organic food catering  to wedding invitations created from all recycled goods. Amongst the crowd were models clad in Toronto-based bridal designer Adele Wechsler’s eco-couture bridal gowns. Wechsler has been jet-setting across the country with Aveda showing off her earth-friendly designs to brides and discussing the positives of a “green” wedding.

Adele Wechsler began designing bridal gowns in 1991. Feeling the need to have bridal lines that has more heart and soul, the designer began focusing on designs that had more of a cultural flair. The result was a line that was African-inspired with intricate beading. According to Wechsler, an environmental-friendly collection was a natural progression. The “eco-couture” line has become a main staple among her bridal collections. The line consists of organic hemp and silk, remnant fabrics, and vegetable dyed silk and is all safe-trade labor. It is clear when speaking with the designer that she has a deep passion for the environment and “going green.” Wechsler noted that brides should not put-aside their passion for the environment on their wedding day. Rather, their “green” attitude can and should be part of arguably one of the most important days of their lives. Wechsler hopes to expand her eco-couture line to formal evening wear some time in the near future. In the meantime, you may find her bridal-wear in La Belle Elaine located in Seattle’s Fischer Plaza.

Along with Adele’s design’s, the guests were treated to various vendors, including organic food chain supermarket Whole Foods’ bakery which displayed their sweet treats. TCC Printing and Imaging also discussed how their print work is done with soy and vegetable based inks. Sound Trading Company also presented their unique online gift registry that features local artists and business that are certified organic. Floral designer Jamie Webber presented the crowd with a rich earth-tone floral and table display.

While the fete attracted those “green” brides, it easy to see that any bride and any wedding can be earth-friendly. From the gown, the invitations, the food, and the gifts brides and grooms can find something to help out the Earth on their wedding day.