Buck the diamond trend and go with what you love. Choose a ring that embodies everything unique about you and your special day. Select a ring with a stone you love or one with your favorite color; perhaps your birthstone or a stone that represents the month you will be getting married. Just think of it as the birthstone of your new life together – now how romantic is that?

Whatever you select just remember to ensure the stones and metals are ethically sourced, recycled or vintage.

Here are a few samples of gorgeous non-traditional engagement rings.

From left to right: Estate Aquamarine & 18K White Gold ring from Fay Cullen; Handcrafted Pale Green Sapphire & Recycled 18K White Gold ring from SuLusso Sustainable Jewelry ; Sapphire & Platinum ring from Brilliant Earth; Malawi sapphire & 14K yellow gold ring from SuLusso Sustainable Jewelry; Vintage Tourmaline & Gold from Fay Cullen; Emerald & Recycled 18K White Gold ring from Greenoro; Amethyst & Sterling Silver ring from Turtle Love Committee; Garnet & Sterling Silver ring from Turtle Love Committee; Alexandrite & Recycled 18K White Gold ring by Green Karat

The new Purely Collection by Alfred Angelo is pure perfection.

Their 2010 catalogue showcases fun, flirty and fabulous wear-again bridesmaid dresses in luscious eco-friendly fabrics.

Loving the adorable Silk Dupioni Plaid dresses. Who knew plaid could be so pretty. These dazzling designs have inspired me to create a “Pretty in Plaid” wedding inspiration board. Watch for it over the next couple of days.

Handcrafted by Rose Elliot, designer and founder of Lady Bead Jewelry, each piece can be customized to perfectly match your barefoot special occasion.

Select from Lady Bead’s wide assortment of pearls, beads, crystals and silver to coordinate with your wedding colors and jewelry.

These super chic barefoot sandals would make a wonderful bridesmaid gift.

With prices starting at only $32 a pair, there are styles to fit every budget.

One of my faves is the dainty Wilshire Dress made of organic cotton, silk and lycra. How gorgeous would your bridesmaids look in this classic piece? Better yet, how gorgeous would you look in it? This dress is a wonderful alternative to the traditional wedding gown and would be perfect for a casual eco wedding.

Wilshire sample dresses, part of the Spring 2009 Los Angeles Collection, are currently on sale for the unbelievable price of $68.

http://www.doiedesigns.com

Part of the PURE Collection, this gorgeous gown is perfect for the bride looking for a simple, fun, flowing yet elegant dress that is sure to take their breath away as you walk down the aisle.

The PURE Collection combines rich organic fabrics with beautiful natural accents.

I highly recommend taking the time to explore this exquisite collection; you will not be disappointed.

Style: OJ16
Size: US 4-20

www.justinalexanderbridal.com

Each pin is handcrafted by Etsy artisan, beautifulbliss, using real orchids that have been gently dried so they will never wilt or rot. With simple care these delicate blossoms will last a lifetime and can be worn again and again.

Each orchid hair pin will arrive beautifully package in a gift box.

Perfect for a beach themed or destination wedding.

Price: $14.50

Check out their complementary boutonnieres and other blooms for cake toppers and centerpieces.

Handmade by female artisans in India, this organic cotton dress features soft, feminine embroidered details, knit bust and mini-balloon bottom.

Retails for $189 from Jute and Jackfruit

We’ve found the perfect alternative which will not only reduce your dress budget but also reduce the waste. The Eco Chameleon gown from Etsy designer and seller Isadora Clothing is true to it’s name. Made of organic cotton, bamboo and spandex jersey, this versatile piece allows you to achieve several different styles simply by changing the way you twist and tie the dress.

For your ceremony, try the strapless Grecian Goddess twist for romantic elegance. And how about the Marilyn Monroe style cross-over halter for a fun yet classic reception cocktail dress.

After your wedding you can incorporate this fun and stylish dress into your everyday wardrobe by getting it hemmed and professionally dyed.

The Eco Chameleon dress sells for the oh-so affordable price of $360.

Also available in a shorter length and a wide variety of colors, the Chameleon dress would be perfect for your bridesmaids. The shorter version sells for $116.

If you’re looking for a dress that can be enjoyed after the wedding, look no further. This timeless 100% organic cotton and silk lined sundress will have you looking eco-fabulous for years to come.

The Orchard dress comes in sizes:
2, 4, 6, 8, 10,12

grace & cello apparel.

Handmade by the amazingly talented and emerging New York designer, Prizy Sebastian, the Persephone dress is the perfect choice for a quaint spring garden or relaxed beach wedding.

Made of light Ivory silk chiffon, this flowing dress will flutter and dance as you move about.

Our team loves Prizy’s idea of shortening this dress to be worn again after your wedding day; perhaps for your anniversary.

Persephone by prizysebastian on Etsy.