Eco-Friendly Paper for Weddings and Events
In a time when everything’s gone digital, it’s fair to ask: is paper still worth it? We think so—and we know it can be done responsibly. Not all paper is created equal, and not all of it’s wasteful. If you care about the impact of what you make, it’s a conversation worth having.
Choosing eco-friendly paper doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. Some of the most striking, textured, and unforgettable invitations are made from recycled cotton, hemp, handmade fibers—or even plantable seed paper. Whether you’re all-in on sustainability or simply aiming for more mindful choices, there are materials that look incredible and leave a lighter footprint.
Contents
Why Paper Still Has a Place
Paper is tactile. Emotional. It sets the tone for everything your guests are about to experience. It’s held, re-read, left on a table, picked up again. It lingers—and that’s not something you get from a link.
Printed on Savoy 100% recycled cotton—a soft, thick stock that takes letterpress beautifully.
At Lucasano, we don’t make throwaway paper. We design keepsakes, pieces people actually want to hold onto. But we also get that not everything ends up saved. If reducing waste matters to you, we’ll guide you toward materials that are recycled, tree-free, or even plantable—like seed paper designed to return to the earth.
Clients Are Thinking Differently
Some clients ask about recycled or tree-free options right away. Others don’t bring it up until they’re holding a sample and ask, “Wait, is this eco-friendly?” There’s no single mindset—but across weddings, events, and branded experiences, we’ve seen the same thing: people are more curious, more informed, and more intentional. And we love that.
For some, sustainability means using post-consumer materials. For others, it’s working with handmade paper from small-batch studios or choosing vendors who align with their values. However it shows up, it’s clear that design and environmental impact are no longer separate conversations. And in the world of paper, there are more beautiful, low-impact options than ever.
Eco-friendly paper isn’t about compromise—it’s about choosing materials that carry meaning and leave less behind.
A Note on What These Terms Actually Mean
Let’s first go over some key terms like “recycled” and “tree-free”—and what they actually mean in practice:
Cotton Paper (aka Tree-Free Luxury)
Cotton paper is made from cotton linters or recycled textiles—no trees involved. It’s super soft, durable, archival, and earth-friendly. It’s also the go-to for letterpress printing. It handles deep impressions like a dream and gives everything a rich, tactile feel.
Our favorites:
Savoy by Reich Paper – 100% cotton, lightly textured, great for letterpress and embossing
Lettra by Crane – 100% cotton, soft surface engineered for deep letterpress impression
Gmund Cotton – 100% cotton, smooth European finish, performs well across multiple print methods
Gmund 100% Cotton (left to right): New Grey, Natural Beige, Max White, and Gentlemen Blue
Handmade & Artisanal Paper
Handmade paper brings character, texture, and a sense of artistry you can’t replicate with mass production. Usually crafted in small batches from recycled cotton, flax, hemp, or agricultural waste, each sheet carries its own subtle variation in tone, texture, and feel.
Many clients choose handmade stocks with deckled or torn edges, which give the suite a more organic, natural, and intentionally raw aesthetic. It’s a detail that feels quiet but powerful—perfect for those who want their stationery to feel extra tactile and one-of-a-kind.
(Left to right): Handmade papers by White Dragon Paper, Silk & Willow, and White Dragon Paper again
We also work with small-batch papermakers—including queer-owned studios—that specialize in handmade papers using sustainable practices and thoughtful sourcing. Choosing these papers isn’t just about the final look (though that’s a win); it’s also about supporting artists whose values align with yours.
And yes, some of these handmade papers can even be planted. More on that below.
Plantable Seed Paper
Yes, plantable paper is a thing—and it’s eco magic. These papers are embedded with wildflower, herb, or pollinator-friendly seeds. After it’s served its purpose, you can plant it in soil, water it, and watch something new grow.
Porridge Papers Sweet Wilds plantable paper (left to right): Moonbeam, Mellow, Sweat Pea, Denim, Sage
We love seed paper for thank-you notes, inserts, or printed pieces meant to live a little beyond the event. If you're going all in on sustainability, we can even design an entire suite with it. Just keep in mind: seed paper works best with simple layouts and soft printing methods like letterpress or flat printing—nothing too detailed or ink-heavy.
Some of the artists we work with even allow you to curate the seed blend, which adds another layer of meaning. Want to include native wildflowers from the region where you're hosting your event? Or herbs that tie into your brand or personal story? We can make that happen.
It’s a beautiful way to add intention—and a little growth—to your stationery.
“Eco-friendly paper isn’t about compromise—it’s about choosing materials that carry meaning and leave less behind”
Spotlight on Gmund: Where Sustainability Meets Design
In the world of commercial papermaking, sustainability can look a lot of different ways. Gmund is one mill we consistently turn to for their thoughtful innovation, high design standards, and commitment to more eco-conscious options.
With over 190 years of history, this German mill blends old-world technique with modern environmental practices. Several of their collections prioritize recycled content, fast-growing fibers, and low-impact production—showing that beautiful paper can also be a more responsible choice.
Some of our favorite Gmund collections:
Gmund Mother Earth – Their newest line—and one we’re obsessed with. Made from fast-growing plant fibers with low-impact production. Heavily textured and beautifully imperfect.
Gmund Bio Cycle – Incorporates up to 50% alternative fibers such as wheat straw, grass, cotton, and hemp, reducing reliance on traditional wood pulp.
Gmund Hanf – Made from 100% European hemp fibers. Soft white, matte finish, and highly renewable.
Gmund Les Naturals – Distributed by Gmund, made from 100% recycled fibers with visible inclusions for a handmade look with production-level consistency.
Gmund Mother Earth Collection
Make a Statement and a Difference
You don’t have to choose between aesthetics and impact. In fact, the look, feel (and even the smell) of eco-friendly options are among the most beautiful stocks you can choose.
Sustainability isn’t a theme. It’s part of the process. And for clients who want their printed pieces to carry weight—in every sense—we’re here to guide you through options that align with your priorities, not just your palette.
Curious what that could look like for your project?
Let’s put something meaningful on paper.
Start your custom stationery journey →
This blog post is not affiliated with any companies or brands mentioned.
All opinions are drawn from personal experience or research.
