Sustainability Catch Up with The Watering Hole

       

We chatted to Cotswold based wedding and event bar service company The Watering Hole, about what it means to be a more sustainable supplier and their journey.

It can be hard for venues and couples to judge what makes a sustainable supplier, what would you say they should look for?

• We boast a carbon neutral certification. We complete a report every 12 months to declare our emissions and to show how we battle to offset those emissions whilst also reducing them each year.Our carbon neutral certification is advertised on our website showing links to projects that we support around the globe.

So how did the Watering Hole start their sustainability journey?

• One of our shareholders has a PhD in sustainable agriculture and this is where the inspiration came from in attempting to be a greener company.

Should couples look for companies with B-Corp? What is the process like?

• Yes but it’s a long process! We are nearly there, just requiring our company Articles of Association to be amended by solicitors to ensure we have made a legal commitment to do our bit to protect the environment.

What inspires you to make sustainability part of your business model?

• Our director is very passionate about the environment and does everything he can in his personal life to make ethical decisions for the planet. So it’s no surprise that he also wants The Watering Hole to do the same.

How important is knowing you are sustainable to your couples?

• Both our wedding couples and wedding venues find it a necessity to their planning. Weddings have the opportunity to gather a lot of waste from the drinks service so it’s important for our clients to know that we do our part, from sourcing products through to recycling at the end.

What advice do you have for venues and suppliers looking to start their sustainability journey?

• Sustainable and environmental practices require a top down approach. Staff need to know the importance of the practices and the reasons why certain methods should be followed for full commitment and success. If done correctly it can boost staff morale, as staff know they work for a company that cares.

What should ‘conscious’ couples look for when trying to choose a sustainable supplier?

• Carbon neutral status is very important to show that a company is thinking about how they impact the environment and how to better themselves. Couples should ask about the products sourced and why, whilst keeping a close eye out for green washing. The right supplier should be able to summarise their process and their sustainability journey with ease.

How do you see sustainability shaping the future of the wedding sector?

• We believe that sustainability will become increasingly important. Couples will not only look for sustainable companies and practices but will seek them out as a necessity.

To find out more about their journey, visit their website here.