March 18, 2015
in Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas

One of my favorite things to help a client create as their planner is the layout of their wedding reception. I think this piece dictates so much – the atmosphere you are creating for guests, and the way each meticulous detail planned will be displayed in. In the past, we’ve talked a lot about things to consider at your reception, but barely touch on the important undertaking of the layout!

The perk of layout building:

As overwhelming of a task as it may sound to a couple unfamiliar with the venue or what is “traditional” at a wedding, most venues can pass along a blank template of the space for you to do some sketching on – letting your imagination run wild. Or maybe you’d rather see what’s been done before in the space – and take it from the venue on what seems to work the best overall. Don’t be afraid to ask your venue for sample layouts so you can really understand all layout considerations.

This post is directed more specifically on the wedding head table – where you and your bridal party will be seated during the reception – primarily for toasts, and dinner service. Though we’ve seen a lot in our experiences at multiple venues, we thought we’d hone in on the most popular options. Take a look!

Traditional

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Photo Credit: Karrn Frost Photography (top)  |  Ben Pancoast Photography (bottom)

Of the head table options we’ll show you in the post, this is probably the one you’ll see most as you attend weddings yourself. We call this a traditional wedding head table – where you and your beau are centered, with each of your bridal party members flanked off to the left and right. Typically groomsmen will be on the right, and bridesmaids on the left (as pictured), but it’s your wedding right? Do what you want!

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A little sketch goes a long way. The bottom sketch shows a different rendition of the traditional layout, where instead of the bride and groom seated at the same style table as the bridal party, they are seated at what we call a sweetheart table – a small round table. To keep with tradition, your bridal party can still be to either side of you.

 

Double-Sided

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Photo Credit: Woodnote Photography (top left)  |  Ben Pancoast Photography (bottom)

This is a perfect option if looking save space because you’ll be seated on both sides of the table. Of course, it makes for easier conversation as well, being seated closer together.

Double-sided head tables are perfect if you have a larger bridal party and don’t want a long, never-ending table, or if you’d rather not be on a “stage” so-to-speak having all eyes on you as you eat your meal. Don’t be embarrassed if you enjoy that kind of thing!

 

King Arthur

 

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Photo Credit: Ben Pancoast Photography (bottom left) | Luna Dulce Photography (middle left)  |  Alison Glovak (right)

This is probably what we see most of at receptions. Set as two-8ft tables pushed together to create the illusion of an ‘almost’ square table.  Another great option if you have a larger bridal party, because you are utilizing all four sides of the table.

Having family-style dinner service? This type of table leaves tons of space for platters and bowls to be set.

A typical king arthur table will seat 12 people. Need to seat 20? Keep adding 8fts together to create the custom size you need. The photo shown above, on the right, sat 30 people (they chose to seat the bridal party with their significant others at the head table).

 

Sweetheart Table

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Photo Credit: Matt Pratt Photography (top left) | Luna Dulce Photography (top right) | Carolyn Lloyd Photography (bottom left)

Named so perfectly – a table for just you and your sweetie. Perhaps you’d like to have your bridal party sit with whomever they’d like and instead just need a small table for two. We usually see this size table as a 48” round, but ask your venue what size round table they can offer you.

 

Looking for more assistance building your reception layout? Reach out to us – we’re here to help!

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March 13, 2015
in 1928 Planning, Schades of Light, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas

I think I speak for most – between the weddings you and your beau attend each year and all of the ones you’re sure your guests attend, you are looking for something that says wow – something that embodies your signature wedding, something that will entertain your guests and make them remembering your wedding long after the night is over. We’ve seen some great ways to incorporate non-traditional wedding entertainment ideas over the last several seasons. Because of the impact we see that it can bring to a celebration, we felt the need to share! We just might help you get some ideas flowing of your own with just how cool and creative some of these are! Enjoy!

 

Interactive games

We love the reaction on a guests’ face when they see interactive games on display at a reception. This wedding entertainment idea can range so much: mad libs to play while waiting for dinner service to begin, i-Spy games for kids (or hey, adults too!), lawn games like cornhole and giant jenga, word search napkins to grab at the bar, honestly – the list goes on!

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Photo Credit: Chandler Rose Photography (right, top left)

Food

We find ourselves blogging about food a lot – shouldn’t shock you. Bringing food to the forefront and focal point at a reception is what most are looking to do. Considering you will likely spend a good portion of your wedding budget in the food category, I’m sure you’ll want to make an awesome impression!

Try tasting menus to evolve the typical wedding reception meal, where each course is paired with a wine or beer selection. Consider renting a food truck for an added wedding entertainment feature during the reception. Those that we’ve seen typically debut after dinner is over, when the appetite starts to come back once dancing begins. Having a killer late night snack will leave guests with a full-foodie experience and that lasting impression that we mentioned. If going the food truck route – try the famous Ice Cream Truck, Mimi’s Cupcakes on Wheels, or The Hotdog Cart! If looking to stay in-house for food, ask your caterer what options they offer for late night (sliders, pizzas, french fries, sundae bars, s’mores!) – sorry it’s coming up on lunchtime here!

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Photo Credit: Blueline Photography (right) | 430 Studios (bottom left)

Atmosphere

This is what it’s all about. One of my favorite parts of planning is helping build your layout of the venue, where each table and design feature is meticulously placed in order to maximize the guest experience. Wedding entertainment can mean a lot of things – and having the ultimate, inviting atmosphere is one of them. Atmosphere is not only about the venue you select to host the celebration, but about the guest comfort you create for them within the venue. Lighting is key to adding ambiance after dark (especially the work from Schades of Light!) Pair that with a lounge environment with comfy couches and chairs and you’ve got yourself a winner. Think about adding some other entertaining items, like a cigar bar, or the yard games mentioned above.

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Photo Credit: 430 Studios (top) | Blueline Photography (bottom)

After party

Not a whole lot to justify here! After parties have been wedding trending and here’s why. It’s likely that your guests have traveled far to be a part of the festivities. It’s also likely that your reception venue closes shop between 11:00p – midnight. But does that mean your guests have to say nighty-night? Nope! It’ll give you just that much more time to celebrate with guests – who will appreciate the extra effort made too! Looking for the top after party locations in town? Check it out here!

 

We’ve got tons more ideas to share – just reach out to us!

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February 13, 2015
in 1928 Planning, Real Weddings, Schades of Light, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas

For 1928 Planning, holiday weekends always bring us an extra level of excitement and when you add in coordinating a wedding for a phenomenal couple, well, you realize just how awesome of a career you have! Jackie & Andy’s Fourth of July wedding celebration at The Veranda @ The Whitcomb in St. Joseph, MI, stars in our latest Real Weddings edition – and we are eager to share!

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Just like you’d hope for in July, it was gorgeous weather for their outdoor wedding celebration. After spending the morning getting ready at The Boulevard Inn, Jackie and Andy shared their intimate first look at easily the most breathtaking view of the city and Lake Michigan from atop the Whitcomb Tower. We are always telling people how much of a hidden gem it is – it never disappoints!

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Being just a quick jaunt away from Tiscornia Beach, the bridal party took a ride in style on the Sunset Coast Trolley and headed towards the beach to take advantage of one of the most noted landmark’s the city has to offer: The North Pier Lighthouse.

BRIDAL

The rooftop ceremony was, believe it or not, a first for The Veranda. It made for quite a special time and one that 1928 was thankful to be a part of! After trouble securing a ceremony location on a holiday weekend, Jackie and Andy were encouraged by their photographer, Ben Pancoast Photography, to check out The Veranda’s blank slate rooftop and have their wedding ceremony propped right above the bluff that overlooks Lake Michigan. Remember when I said the views don’t disappoint? This here was no exception.

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Their summer inspired color scheme complemented the rooftop perfectly, with pops of bright coral in their decor, florals, and bridesmaids dresses. They even topped off each ceremony chair with a pair of signature sunglasses both as favors and to keep their guests comfortable during the sunny afternoon ceremony.

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As the ceremony ended, guests made their way downstairs to enjoy an hour of cocktails, music and delicious bites while lounging on the rented patio furniture in the connected garden. The layout of the reception was so unique – filling the space with large King Arthur tables to provide larger seating capacity at each table. It was a great way to add some dimension to the venue and to fit a larger guest count.

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The charcoal gray linens and ruffled runners paired with bundles of free-spirit coral roses made such a statement in the monochromatic atmosphere of The Veranda. Throughout the venue, no detail was forgotten. They designed signage that matched the table number with photos of both Andy and Jackie at the age. Something we are sure the guests enjoyed looking through as they found their seats for dinner service.

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The night was filled with family-style dinner service provided by (the awesome!) CK Catering, and delicious mini pies and cupcake bites from Amanda Marie’s Bakery for dessert hour. As the sun set, guests enjoyed dancing, sparklers, and anxiously awaiting the Fourth of July fireworks display over Lake Michigan.

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As dusk came, the much anticipated firework show began, displaying in ideal view for the wedding guests gathered in the garden and on the walkway of The Veranda. It was literally a picture-perfect ending to their reception and sent guests off on such a high note! Jackie and Andy enjoyed the fireworks from the Tower. It made for some remarkable photos and a few minutes of alone time with each other to take it all in as their reception came to a close.

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For more details on Jackie and Andy’s big day and so much more, contact 1928!

Vendors for Jackie & Andy:

Day of Coordination & Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Catering: CK Catering

Baker: Amanda Marie’s Bakery

Florals: Crystal Springs Florist

Photography: Ben Pancoast Photography

Music: DJ – Music Unlimited | Harpist – Meg Rodgers

Transportation: Sunset Coast Trolley

Lighting: Schades of Light

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February 2, 2015
in Schades of Light, Wedding Reception Ideas

1928 Planning has seen first-hand the impact that lighting design can have on a reception and believes that the finished product is invaluable. 1928 partners with local wedding lighting design company, Schades of Light to offer front-end communication to clients. We thought what better way for our readers to get to know Schades of Light than to have them guest blog for us and explain in their words the ultimate question: Do I Need Wedding Lighting?

Schades of Light Q & A

With Owner, Stephanie Schadler

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How did Schades of Light come to be?

In 2008, a mother of a bride asked if I would help decorate her daughter’s wedding. They had two bags full of lights and tulle fabric from a friend’s wedding and showed me how they wanted it hung. I thought, sure I can help out, this can’t be too hard and I got to work.  Well, five hours later, a few phone calls to family and friends and a couple of trips to the store, I was done!  After receiving payment I thought there has to be an easier way to do this!  So the following wedding season I bought my own supplies, setup a process of how to work efficiently and we’ve been at it ever since!

 

What local venues has Schades of Light provided services?

The Veranda @ The Whitcomb, The Boulevard Inn, Shadowland Ballroom, Blue Dress Barn, The Vineyard @ 12 Corners, Hidden Vineyard, and Harbor Shores.

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Photo Credit: Jennifer Mayo Studios (top) | 430 Studios (bottom)

Why do you love what you do?

Every event is a happy one!  Each one is different and unique in their own way and I love getting to meet the bride and groom and their family.

 

What would you say is your favorite part?

Seeing the finished product! I love going back just before the wedding starts to see how everything came together.

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Photo Credit: Ben Pancoast Photography (top) | 430 Studios (bottom right) | Woodnote Photography (bottom left)

Some couples don’t see a need to have lighting at a reception. Make your case. Why is it important?

In the summer months (our busiest season), couples often think that since the sun sets around 9:30p that they don’t really need any additional lighting.  Although the sun is setting late, only on a perfect sunny day will you have a lot of natural light. What about cloudy, overcast, or rainy days?

We try to avoid turning on any permanent lighting in a venue because although it is functional lighting, it just doesn’t have the ambiance that most couples are looking for.

Some couples will also say they have a lot of candle light planned for their tablescapes. What if it’s a windy day and the candles can’t stay lit?

Local venues that have a separate lounge area are usually dark, and by adding a few stands of café lights it’ll make the space welcoming for guests and add a safety factor too.

 

For someone who knows their venue needs lighting but doesn’t know how to get started choosing what will work best, what would you suggest to them?

Gather pictures – either inspiration photos online or from another source so we have a clear idea of what they are looking for.  We show them pictures of the venue from other events with lighting options to give them a realistic view.  Most of the time the venue is empty when they view it and that makes it hard to visualize the space all decorated. That’s what we are here for – to help you see your ideas!

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Photo Credit: Dan Stewart Photography (bottom) |  430 Studios (top right) | Zachary Photography (top left)

What is your most popular service?

Paper lanterns. We offer a variety of color options to our clients that typically match their color schemes. It’s more of a casual look and complements most venues.

 

Where do you see wedding lighting design going?

A move towards simple elegance, using lights, fabric and chandeliers. We recently added a group of chandeliers to our services! We are super excited to begin offering them for the 2015 wedding season!

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Photo Credit: Jennifer Mayo Studios (bottom) | Bjlr Photography (top right)

Anything else you want to share your expertise on?

What we often hear are brides and grooms wanting to save money and purchase their own lighting decorations, install and tear it down themselves. It usually takes a lot more time than they think – time they could be enjoying their big day.  At the end of the night they really don’t want to worry about tearing everything down, especially after a few drinks! With our pricing, we include not only the inventory but the setup and tear down. You won’t have to lift a finger!

For more on Schades of Light and how they can be a part of your wedding day, contact us!

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January 28, 2015
in 1928 Planning, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

We all love catching up on wedding trends for the upcoming year – it’s something we look forward to and gets us excited to think about what our clients might debut for the weddings ahead! It’s that time again – welcome to our post on 2015 wedding trends! Some are new and fun, while others are trends that have been around and just aren’t saying sayonara anytime soon.

In 2013, the #1 word engaged couples used to identify their wedding was FUN! In 2015 they are using the phrase “down to earth ambiance”… seen in their florals, food, color schemes, and guest experience.

Florals

What’s In:

Organic looking tablescapes with free-spirited arrangements are trending for 2015. The move is towards a wild-garden look with more than one color or type of flower.

Utilizing non-floral items – such such as berries, fruit, acorns, etc. We witnessed centerpieces in the fall of 2014 filled with accents of artichokes and pomegranates.

Imperfections are welcomed.

Fresh pickings from a farmer’s market or local grower. It’s not only budget-savvy, but it also lends itself to the trend.

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Photo Credit: 430 Studios (left) | Ben Pancoast Photography (right)

Food

What’s In:

Food pairings with beer or wine. Local wine or craft beer complimented with delicious bites – what could be better than this 2015 wedding trend?

Family-style dining. The guests feel comfortable and at home, passing delicious food around the table. Guest interaction is a big goal for today’s couples and nothing gets a conversation started quite like this style of service. Family style is acceptable for casual and more formal receptions.

Locally sourced and seasonal food.

Late night snack attack. Give the guests an extra element of surprise near the end of the evening with another round of food. The late night snack tends to make it’s debut around 9:30p at receptions. This time of night you’ll be craving snacks and comfort food. Treat guests to a build-your-own coney bar, sliders and fries, pizza, and quesadillas. You’ll want something that can be versatile enough for all of your guests to enjoy.

Fondant wedding cake vs. buttercream wedding cake. The trend is headed away from the fondant extravaganza and instead showing off a more textured cake using buttercream. Your possibilities are endless with buttercream. We’ve seen tiered cakes that offer a different, but complementary, design on each layer. Of course we can’t forget about the ‘naked cake’ that has been trending too!

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Photo Credit: Jordanne + Ryan Photography (bottom left) | 430 Studios (right and upper left)

Color Schemes

What’s In:

Bold colors and non-traditional color combos. Pastels and neutrals aren’t necessarily done for, but the use of a bold or unexpected accent color is something we will see quite a bit as a 2015 wedding trend. We are sure Pantone’s 2015 Color of the Year: Marsala will make its mark, especially in the fall of 2015. Below are the Top 10 Wedding Color Combos for 2015 courtesy Stylish Wedding Ideas.

stylish wedding trends

The Experience

What’s In:

With the average wedding sized around 140 guests (smaller than past years), couples are wanting to create an experience from beginning to end.

Build up the excitement long before the big day with a wedding website or some fun and unique wedding invitations. Since invitations are the first impression for your wedding, make it count with something unexpected that will grab attention and add a wow-factor. The goal is to build the anticipation long before the actual big day.

Give thank you’s as they exit rather than just a favor at a place setting for them to grab. We think this is a great trend for 2015. We’ve seen too many favors get left behind at the dinner tables! If you’re wanting to give guests a takeaway and have the room in your budget, make sure they aren’t left behind!

Offer transportation to accommodate your out of town guests. Buses or trolleys are popular to shuttle guests to and from hotels, allowing them to just enjoy the evening and leave their GPS back at home. 

This is a biggie: keep in mind guest comfort. Recently we wrote a blog on Creating Your Signature Wedding. One of the best things you can do while planning is to think about the experiences and comfort of your guests. Consider all angles: hot or cold weather, hungry or thirsty guests, how to manage a kid-friendly reception and thinking about the flow of your wedding timeline. 

 

For more on what’s trending – contact us!

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January 22, 2015
in Real Weddings, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas

Giving tribute to loved ones on your wedding day is filled with such meaning because chances are, those in spirit made an impact on your life. Coming up with creative ways to remember and honor them on the wedding day is what this blog is all about! It’s okay to keep it as simple and subtle or as bold of a statement as you’d like. Check out some of our ideas below to get you started thinking!

Incorporate their memory into accessories

We’ve seen brides get creative on how they display sentimental items as a wedding day accessory! Pin small photos to your bouquet or shoes, wear their jewelry as your “something old” or add other jewelry, hair pins, or special pieces to your dress that remind you of a loved one and make their memory physically present for the big day.

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Photo Credit: 430 Studios (top left) | Ben Pancoast Photography

Memory and photo table

A popular take on commemorating those not present on your wedding day is a memory table, complete with photos of late loved ones on display and a lit candle. This table often becomes a talking piece amongst guests as they arrive and will not be overlooked.

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Photo Credit: Dave Tree Photography

Give a tribute during the ceremony

Dedicating a portion of the wedding ceremony to those not present is something that can be done in a number of ways.

Start off the ceremony with a moment of silence, recognizing those that are not present.

Add a tribute section found inside the ceremony program.

Save them a seat at the ceremony marked with a loose flower or photo.

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Photo Credit: Katherine Martin

Play their favorite song

This can be done during the ceremony, reception or both! We have also had the song selections for the traditional father/daughter and mother/son dances be a tribute to a parent that has passed.

Use a family recipe

Most caterers will be flexible and make something not on their standard menu. Provide the caterer with a famous family recipe that will remind guests of a loved one whose passed. It’ll be the focal point of your menu.

Make a donation

Choose to donate to a charity close to a late loved ones heart in lieu of favors.

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Photo Credit: The Knot 

For more ideas on how to honor loved ones on the wedding day and so much more, contact us!

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December 8, 2014
in DIY Hot Spot!, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

Rustic Weddings have been making their mark in the industry for easily the last few years. But as an engaged couple, eager to plan the perfect wedding, you may be asking yourself, what exactly is a rustic wedding style and what does it mean for me?

This wedding style has so many interpretations and no one definition is the same. It allows you to really step outside the box and create your own version of rustic weddings – being a style setter rather than a style follower. Keep in mind that no matter which direction you decide to go, rustic is collective. Find miscellaneous and eclectic pieces that work together to complement your style. With this, mistakes, and imperfections are welcomed and cookie-cutter is nowhere to be found.

One of the most easily coined items to fall in the rustic category are mason jars, burlap, and lace accents in a barn setting. I don’t want to call those old-news, but there is SO much more out there! I think every one of my posts encourages you to BE CREATIVE, and this, my friend, is no different.

Rustic Weddings – Interpreting it for yourself.

Just some ideas to get the mind thinking:

 

Option 1:

Bringing in shades of green and creating an outdoor garden style with moss and branches. Use accents of reclaimed wood and recycled metals. Spiced favors to offer guests.

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Option 2:

Go more rustic – chic by designing the wedding around mercury glass, pearls, brooches, and heirloom lace.

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Option 3:

Take it more retro with an ocean blue color scheme, whimsical tableware, lemonade, peach preserve favors and a naked wedding cake.

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The rustic wedding has boosted the DIY sensation in the wedding industry. With the help of a loyal friend named Pinterest, DIY’ers are able to find a jumping off point for their ideas. Follow us on Pinterest to get some inspiration for your big day!

As always, contact us for more assistance!

 

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December 1, 2014
in 1928 Planning, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

Ever heard the phrase “A Signature Wedding”? Chances are, even if the phrase isn’t ringing a bell, the idea behind it is something every engaged couple strives to have on their big day. Designing a signature wedding means creating something as custom, unique, and distinct as you and your beau are. It’s putting a little piece of both of you in most all aspects of your wedding design, decor, and theme. Doing so creates a lasting impression with your guests and a memory of an outstanding night, long after the wedding is over.

Just remember, memorable doesn’t always have to mean expensive! I always say, it’s the little things that matter most, and are appreciated by your guests, so don’t miss the opportunity!

The Details

Merge the two of your styles together to create a look that speaks volumes. (tips on how to add a masculine touch to your reception). With a signature wedding, your design should be consistent throughout the planning, from invitations, to fashion, signage, florals, linens, rental items, and everything in between. No matter how on top of things you are throughout your planning, it’s understandable that some items can be overlooked. With our experience, we’ve unveiled a list of the Top Five Forgotten Wedding Planning Details.

Guest Comfort

Nailing the ‘guest comfort’ piece at the wedding is a sure way to add a notch towards designing a signature wedding. While planning, in the back of your busy brain, always keep in mind guest comfort – and perfecting the overall guest experience.

COLD OR HOT WEATHER? Offer blankets, parasols, or sunglasses (which can also double as favors)

Sunglasses

Photo Credit: Ben Pancoast Photography

HUNGRY OR THIRSTY? Offer hot or cold drinks, (non-alcoholic, or with a twist), and small snacks in the odd times of the wedding day timeline.

INVITING KIDS TO THE WEDDING? Create customized kids packs to keep the kiddos occupied and the parents enjoying themselves. Check out our popular blog on how to manage kids at a wedding reception!

Kids Corner

Photo Credit: Casper Hamlet Photography

Food and Beverage

We’ve all heard the term “signature cocktail” as part of your bar experience at the wedding. It’s something so simple to offer, and with a quirky drink name, it’ll give people the sense that you’ve customized a drink that speaks about you and who you are as a couple.

Having a signature wedding is about stepping outside of the cookie-cutter wedding box and producing something one-of-a-kind. It goes without saying that wedding reception food can get a bad rap over the same ‘ole dishes being served from one wedding to the next (i.e. a chicken entree and a beef entree). Why not work with your caterer and design a custom menu that is crafted to your liking and has the items that are important to you rather than selecting a pre-made menu? We love giving kudos to CK Catering for always working with couples on their menu planning and customizing a dinner course that speaks their personality, taste buds, and budget.

Menu

Photo Credit: 430 Studios

It’s never too late in your planning to add a signature element or two. Start brainstorming now on what you can do to personalize and contact 1928 Planning if you want to hear more!

 

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November 19, 2014
in 1928 Planning, DIY Hot Spot!, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

Opting to create some of your own wedding decorations is a valuable way to cut corners off of  pricey wedding costs. We are thrilled to announce that this is the first installment of a new DIY decorating series on our 1928 blog. Here we are going to show you how to make your own tissue paper tassel garland, which has been a popular enhancement in weddings this year! The garland is perfect to use as a photo booth backdrop, pin to the front of a dessert table, or jazz up a vacant wall- the opportunities are endless. Follow our instructions and you are one step closer to dominating your DIY wedding!

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June 4, 2014
in 1928 Planning, Wedding Design Ideas, Wedding Planning, Wedding Reception Ideas, Wedding Trends

The tradition of the wedding guestbook began as a way for guests to testify to the reality of a marriage. The guestbook originally took the appearance of a ledger, where guests would simply sign their name. Now, the term “book” takes many forms, and guests’ participation can range from a quick John Hancock to full-on well-wishes accompanied by life advice. Here are a few of our favorite trends in the guestbook department. We’ve got something for just about every level of guest involvement!

1. Polaroid Guestbook

Wanting more than a note from your guest? We love the idea of incorporating a polaroid camera in guestbook signing. By setting out a camera at an entry table, guests can snap a shot of their group and sign their names at the bottom. Your photographer probably won’t be able to get photos of everyone in attendance, but you could with this wedding guestbook option!

Polaroid

 

2. Guestbook Poster

Framed signatures are perhaps the most common guestbook option we’ve seen here at 1928 Planning. This is a classic way to record the names of those in attendance. You can either frame a poster that your guests sign, or have guests sign a thick mat on a photo of you and your sweetie. We are loving this wedding guestbook Michigan poster from MDBWeddings shop on Etsy.

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3. Guestbook Stones

Don’t want to spend a lot on your wedding guestbook? This idea is practically free and will serve as a display piece in your future home. We’ve got a lot of beach stones along the shores of Lake Michigan, so you can localize the meaning as well. Simply have guests sign their name or write a short note on a stone and drop it in a pretty jar or vase!

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4. Guestbook Quilt

This guestbook alternative takes a little extra effort and money, but the results are pretty incredible. You will need to know someone who sews for the savvy route, or you can preorder a guestbook quilt (we love this one from The Pin Cushion shop). Each guest can either sign a fabric square, or you can hang a pre-made quilt for guests to sign. Keep warm and be reminded of all those in attendance at your wedding!

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5. Wine Bottle Guestbook

We got this idea from one of our fabulous brides who is planning her wedding at The Vineyard at 12 Corners. This is an especially delicious guestbook idea if you plan to get married at a vineyard. Set aside full wine bottles (from the winery you are getting married at!) for guests to sign or write a note on. Then stash away the bottles to open on your 5th, 10th , 25th and 50th wedding anniversaries (or whatever week, month or year you feel like celebrating!).

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For more ideas from us – contact 1928 Planning! We’d love to chat!