When you think of wedding stationery, you probably envision save the dates, invitations, and RSVPs. However, wedding stationery encompasses much more than that. There are numerous other elements of your big day that require stationery, which you may not have even considered. From place names to menus, ceremony schedules to parking signage, this blog will provide you with a comprehensive overview of all the wedding stationery you’ll ever need. Let’s dive in!
01. Ceremony Schedule/Program
Having a ceremony schedule or program is a fantastic idea. It helps your guests understand the flow of events and ensures they don’t miss any important moments. This can be presented as a card or a small booklet. Include essential details like the wedding ceremony’s date, time, and location. Inside, outline the order of events, including speeches and hymns if applicable. Providing the words to the hymns is a thoughtful gesture that your guests will appreciate, and it serves as a keepsake for them as well.
02. Parking Signage
If the parking situation at your wedding venue (or backyard in our case) and reception is not self-explanatory, consider using signage to guide your guests. Placing signs near the entrance can prevent any confusion. Alternatively, you can assign ushers to direct guests to the designated parking areas.
03. Welcome Sign
Welcome signs are a delightful addition to weddings and set the tone for your ceremony and reception. They come in various designs and styles, making the entrance to your wedding truly special. You can create a beautiful sign for the ceremony entrance, welcoming your guests with a simple “Welcome” or a more personalized message like “Welcome to the marriage of [your names].” Ensure the design aligns with your overall wedding decor, and consider adding flowers or a copper frame to enhance its visual appeal.
04. Take a Seat
If you have specific seating arrangements, it’s important to communicate this clearly to your guests as they arrive at the ceremony. Signs can be used to indicate which side guests should choose for seating. Alternatively, you may opt for a sign that conveys a more casual seating approach with a message like “Pick a seat, not a side.” Pinterest offers a plethora of ideas, including short poems and rhymes to incorporate into your signs. If you have ushers, they can also assist in guiding guests to their seats.
05. Unplugged Wedding
Consider having an unplugged wedding to minimize distractions and ensure your professional photographs capture the true essence of the ceremony. Signage plays a vital role in communicating this request to your guests. Make the signs visible and have multiple displays to ensure everyone is aware of your wishes. Alternatively, you can have your officiant inform guests before the ceremony begins.
06. Wedding Hashtag
Creating a wedding hashtag is an excellent way to encourage guests to share their photos on social media and provide you with a consolidated collection of memories. Display signs on each reception table to inform your guests about the hashtag and how to use it. Not only does this involve your guests in the celebration, but it also allows you to see your wedding through their eyes. When crafting your hashtag, keep it simple to avoid any typos or confusion.
07. Timeline of the Day
Sharing a timeline of events with your guests helps them feel more at ease and informed throughout the day. It’s especially helpful when it comes to meal times and the start of dancing. Consider creating a printed timeline and placing it at the entrance for guests to reference as soon as they arrive. By providing a clear outline of the day’s schedule, you’ll enhance their overall experience.
08. Place Names
Place names indicate where each guest should sit during the wedding reception. They ensure that everyone finds their designated seat, which is particularly crucial if you have specific seating arrangements. If you’re opting for shared dishes, place names may not be necessary.
09. Table Names
Naming each table makes it easier for guests to locate their assigned table. You can keep it simple with numerical names (e.g., tables 1-10) or align the names with your wedding theme, such as using holiday destinations or your favorite bands as table names. Choose something meaningful to you as a couple.
10. Table Plan
A table plan is a visual display that showcases where guests are seated and at which tables. Guests can refer to the table plan, locate their name, and find their assigned table. This enables them to navigate the reception area easily and find their place names, indicating their specific seats.
10. Escort Cards
Escort cards offer an alternative to a traditional table plan. They resemble place names but often include the table name or number on the back. Each guest collects their escort card, which helps them identify their table and find their place name accordingly.
10. Menus
While not essential, menus can be a lovely touch to inform guests about the food they’ll be enjoying. You can have one menu per table or distribute them individually or for every two guests. There are no strict rules regarding the number of menus. Consider creative options like illustrated menus with drawings of the food, or you could even print them onto fabric to double as napkins for each guest.
By considering these various elements of on-the-day wedding stationery, you can ensure a seamless and organized celebration. From guiding your guests and making them feel welcome to providing clear instructions and information, each stationery item contributes to a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience.
Want to brainstorm some seating ideas and keep it all organized? Download our free Backyard Wedding Notion Board template! Streamline your planning process by keeping all the important details, like seating, in front of you!
