Aim to capture more than just guests' signatures by adopting these creative suggestions.
Placing a "traditional" style guest book on a table at your reception will prompt guests to do little more than sign their names and, maybe, scrawl a quick "congratulations."
It hardly makes for scintillating reading years from now: You'll stumble across your dusty old guest book in an attic corner someday and feel a glimmer of nostalgia -- until you open it to read a mere rollcall of names. Back it goes in the box!
More couples are looking for different ways to remember those who gathered to celebrate their special day. Rather than just record the names of family and friends, a guest book can encourage them to express words of wisdom, precious memories or humourous anecdotes. Here are a few suggestions:
Make a Scrapbook
When you mail your invitations, include an insert requesting guests bring a photograph to include in your wedding scrapbook. Have them place the photo (you can supply photo corner mountings) into your guest book at the reception, and write a personal note below detailing where and when the picture was taken.
Record the Day Instantly
Ask a friend or family member to take a Polaroid of each guest or family group as they arrive at your ceremony or wedding reception. Each guest could be asked to write a message on their photo before placing it in an album. (Polaroids do fade over many years, but a professional photo lab can suggest how to make a more permanent archive from the completed set of images.)
Create a Memorable Portrait
Make a poster-sized enlargement of an engagement photo, a favourite picture of the two of you, or individual baby pictures. Mount it in an oversized matte on which guests can sign their names and write a personal message. Have it framed as a wonderful keepsake and conversation piece in your home.
Make a Time Capsule
Make a time capsule, such as a "Tenth Anniversary Box." Purchase a pine box and decorate it with paint and stencils, or cover with fabric. Make it pretty enough to use as a decorative accent in your home. Cut out a slot to insert notes through, and glue the lid shut. Place cue cards, (or decorated heavy-stock paper) on your "Guestbook" table, along with a vase full of pens with a sign reading: