There’s something undeniably magical about weddings. But there’s also something undeniably wasteful. From the single-use plastic confetti to the imported flowers flown halfway across the globe, the industry—beneath the glitz—has a deep environmental footprint. One woman looked at that reality and said, “Enough.”
Enter Em Burnip, the original visionary and pioneer behind the Eco Wedding Festivals—or EWF, as they’re now lovingly known.
Born in Hungary and deeply connected to the natural world from an early age, Em has always felt the pull of purpose over polish. After moving to the UK and working within the wedding industry, she became increasingly disheartened by what she saw. Endless rows of mass-produced displays. Plastic-wrapped giveaways. Vendors offering the same cookie-cutter experiences. The sparkle faded fast.
Weddings, Em realised, had become a performance powered by consumption, not connection.
And so the seed for EWF was planted—not just an event, but a movement. A bold, brave, and beautiful new way forward. She didn’t want to do another “fayre.” She wanted to create an immersive, joyful, eco-conscious experience that inspired not only couples, but the suppliers too. Because if we’re going to change the wedding world, it starts with changing how we do business. It’s all about radius, and understanding. Local. Sustainable. Real.
What is an EWF?
A festival-style wedding fair that celebrates sustainability in all its forms. It brings together ethical, local suppliers and showcases just how extraordinary a low-impact wedding can be. This is not your average expo. This is a party with purpose.
But it’s more than just who shows up—it’s about who is invited. Every single supplier at an Eco Wedding Festival is specially curated. These are not just vendors—they’re changemakers, each one carefully selected for their values, transparency, quality, and genuine commitment to sustainability. Whether it’s floristry, photography, catering, or fashion, if they’re here, it’s because they’ve earned their place.
How Did It All Begin?
It started with frustration. Em had attended one too many soulless wedding fairs and thought, “There has to be another way.” So she sketched a vision of what a truly ethical, enjoyable, and community-rooted wedding event might look like. A blend of festival vibes and conscious choices. And slowly, that sketch came to life.
But the road wasn’t easy. Like all pioneers, Em’s journey was filled with bumps, doubters, and moments of sheer exhaustion. Still, she kept walking.
The first test festival was a leap of faith—and it worked. It was raw, real, and full of energy. Couples came with open hearts. Suppliers came with open minds. Something clicked. And from that electric first moment, Em knew: this is just the beginning.
What Will You Find at These Festivals?
- Live music (bring your dancing shoes)
- Local food and drinks from artisans and sustainable kitchens
- A bridal fashion show (where space allows) featuring re-wearable and ethical gowns
- Hands-on workshops with industry experts
- An eco raffle, creative games, and interactive experiences
- A sustainable honeymoon showcase
- And above all: a sense of community and inspiration
What Won’t You Find?
🚫 Single-use plastic
🚫 Mass-produced items
🚫 Imported flowers and drinks
Because EWF is all about reducing miles and creating meaning.
The Big Push
Now, backed by an incredible team who share her passion and purpose, Em is preparing for the next wave of Eco Wedding Festivals. Bigger, brighter, and more impactful than ever before. With the wind at her back and a growing community of eco-curious couples and conscious creatives, EWF is becoming a powerful force for good in the wedding world.
But more than just an event, this is a mission. Em is not just here to help brides and grooms. She’s here to inspire an entire industry. She believes that every mile matters, and that sustainability starts with rethinking the radius. Why fly flowers in from abroad when your neighbour grows stunning blooms without the carbon cost? Why rely on generic suppliers when local legends are doing better, more meaningful work?
More Than Just a Movement
Em Burnip is more than the founder of EWF—she’s a changemaker. She’s reshaping the wedding world with every step, reminding us that love doesn’t need landfill. It needs meaning. And it needs people like Em.
She’s also a proud co-founder of The Vea Collection, a transformative collective redefining luxury weddings and honeymoons with the same deep commitment to sustainability. Vea and EWF together are rewriting the narrative—creating a world where love and the planet walk hand in hand.
Because when love is conscious, it’s more than a celebration.
It’s a legacy.