Planning For Your Wedding Guest Book

In the grand scheme of things it is easy to overlook, but when planning your wedding, keep in mind that your guest book welcome station will be the first personal touch your guests encounter after they arrive at your venue. A well-coordinated station can set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Some things to consider when making arrangements for your station are:

Décor:

• Add a splash of your color. This is easily done by incorporating a few of the flowers you are using elsewhere in your ceremony and/or reception.
• You can save money by repurposing an attractive journal for the guest book and a decorative box for your cards. Add a bit of ribbon or design to make them complement each other. Keep in mind that at Saguaro Buttes we offer a choice of three card boxes from which you may choose.

Attendant:

• Your guest book station needs a good attendant in order to be a success. He or she should be someone who is comfortable with greeting your guests and instructing them in the sign in process. Keep in mind that your attendant will be responsible for organizing your gifts and receiving your wedding cards, too.
• You can expect guests to begin arriving about 30 minutes before the time you printed on your invitations, so make sure your attendant will be able to arrive in time to greet your guests. Staff is usually available to fill in when there’s a delay, but it is ideal for your attendant to manage the station from beginning to end.
• The attendant should be dressed comfortably for the weather and prepared to stand in direct sunlight.

We’ve seen a number of original ideas put into action here at Saguaro Buttes, from wishing trees to mini envelope albums, fingerprint trees, and photo books. Whatever special touch you decide to add to your welcome station, remember that when guests arrive they have often driven a sizeable distance and are usually concerned about finding their seats for the ceremony. Cocktail hour is the ideal time for guests to write personal notes to the bride and groom or fill out fingerprint trees anything that involves multiple steps or is a little more time consuming than filling out a guest ledger.

 Written by Priscilla Racke