“How can I make my wedding my own?” This is a question I am often asked. Here are some tips for personalizing your wedding:
- Select a pretty mat that will eventually go into a frame that you can hang in your new home. A mat instead of a guest book, which guests sign, is a fun way to remember your day. Another option is a ceramic platter with a permanent ink pen. This too, will be a nice addition to your home décor.
- Some couples are have guest books made by their photographer featuring photos from their engagement session. Others select a picture book that is meaningful to them, maybe the city in which they live. Guests can sign their names and brief message on pages throughout the book.
- Personalized gifts for your attendants: How about photo books with old photos of you and your friends? Think of all the things you’ve been through and give these cherished, personalized gifts to your maid of honor and best man.
- A thumbprint tree is fun for you and your guests. Guests will leave their thumbprint and name on a tree that you can frame and hang in a special place in your new home.
- A wishing tree is another fun idea at your reception. Ask guests to write you notes of best wishes and hang them on a tree or branches in a decorative pot. You and your husband will savor these good wishes and enjoy reading them long after your wedding and honeymoon.
- Monogrammed Bath Robes: Who wouldn’t love this plush gift idea? This is perfect for your bridal party.
- Your parents have been saving for this big event in all your lives. This is a big day for them, too. Acknowledge their generosity and love with a personalized gift. There are so many ways to say thank you. Whether it’s an eloquent quote about parenting or your special relationships or a favorite picture of something you shared together, what better way to say thank you and I love you!
- If you choose to show a video at your wedding, remember to include photos of family and friends, not just of the bride and groom.
- Are thank-you cards more meaningful than your invitation? Yes! By acknowledging your guests with hand-written, personalized notes, you are saying that it mattered to you that they attended your wedding and/or sent you a gift.
- For your out-of-town guests who are staying at nearby hotels, have a guest basket or bag with water, naps, candy and other refreshments plus maps, an itinerary of the festivities, along with a personalized note from you, either at the check-in desk or in their room!
- Every bride needs a nice set of sheets and towels. These are extravagant keepsakes. If friends ask what you need, ask for a luxurious set of sheets and/or towels that are monogrammed or embroidered with your initials.
- Use the buddy system for out-of-town guests. Assign a friendly, outgoing family member or close friend to your out-of-town guests. Your family and friends will act as your “ambassador” for the wedding weekend. Your ambassadors can greet guests at the airport, chauffeur them around, and help them in this strange city. What better way to welcome your out-of-towners!
Want more tips? Check out Premier Bride of Mississippi. Download or find where you get a free copy at www.premierbridems.com
Have a question for The Bridal Guru? Send your question(s) to ask@msbridalguru.com