On the Day Stationery
What do wedding stationers mean when they talk about ‘on the day stationery’, or ‘day of stationery’? We’re talking about all of the little details that you might not think about until closer to the wedding day itself. Things like place cards, menu cards, table numbers, order of service, table plans, welcome signs, and other bits of signage.
Let's break them down and chat about why each item can be an important part of your wedding day…
Welcome Signs
These do what they say on the tin really… they are signs that greet your guests as they arrive at your wedding! Especially if you add in a venue illustration to really showcase that gorgeous wedding venue you spent so long finding. They can be a lovely way to set the tone for your big day, giving a really polished feel, and are also helpful in directing your guests to the ceremony or reception areas. We can include a timeline of the day to let your guests know when all the key events will be happening throughout the day- like when that beautiful wedding cake is going to be cut! This can also be a great place to note if you’re having an unplugged ceremony and remind Uncle Bill to put his camera down.
Order of Service
These are booklets or cards that detail your wedding ceremony and are definitely a necessity for church services. They’ll include the outline of the service, along with any instructions to sit or stand, and will ensure everyone is singing from the same hymn sheet- literally.
For civil ceremonies these might not be essential, however, they definitely make a beautiful keepsake and give the ceremony a special and considered feel.
Table Plans
Next up is a heavy hitter! Also referred to as seating charts, these are usually larger signs that display the seating arrangements for all of your guests. They're typically displayed near the entrance of the reception area, and are a great way to help your guests find their way to their tables with minimal fuss. If you’re having a very large wedding, it’s worth considering having two signs with the guest names split between them to ensure guests aren’t all crowded around one. Alphabetical table plans can also help everyone find where they need to be at larger weddings! These can also be designed as a display with each table having its own print to be framed, or clipped to a gorgeous styling detail or prop.
Table Numbers
These are cards or signs that indicate which table your guests will be sitting at. Pop one right in the middle of your table and you’re golden. For longer banquet tables you may want to consider having a couple dotted along the length of the table to make sure they’re visible. Another option to numbers is to name your tables. This is a great way to introduce a more personal touch and bring in some special elements to you as a couple.
Place Cards
These are cards that are usually added to each place setting, and they let your guests know where they'll be sitting. Not only do they help with the organization, but they're also a lovely little touch that can add to the overall aesthetic of your tablescape.
Menu Cards
These cards are also usually added to place setting too, and they let your guests know what they'll be eating as part of the wedding breakfast. They can also be included per table rather than per guest if you have a fixed menu. If your guests have a choice of meals, I’d recommend including one per guest and there are lots of lovely options to combine this with your place cards. We could print the guest names directly onto the menu, add an additional card held together with eyelets, decorative clips, ribbon, wax seals… all of which could really make the dining experience extra special whilst making sure everyone gets their correct meals with minimal confusion.
Guest Books
Personalised guestbooks can be a really special addition to your wedding day. Designed to match and correspond with all of your other stationery, they’re a lovely way to gather all of the heartfelt wishes and the love felt by all of your favourite people who were with you on this special day.
Smaller Signage and other finishing touches
The list absolutely does not end there! Other items might include seat reservation signs or tags for chairs at your ceremony which can help make sure your wedding party VIPs have their seats right up front. Smaller signage can cover anything from signature cocktails, to heartfelt remembrance signs for guests who cannot be with you. There are endless options, and I would love to hear any of your ideas for extra special touches.
