Just about every engaged couple will tell you there were signs pointing to their future — the euphoria of falling in love, the discussions about starting a family, the day they realized they couldn’t bear the idea of being apart.
Yes, those metaphysical signs can’t be overlooked.
But what about actual, physical signs? Increasing numbers of couples are displaying them at their weddings and receptions. And though they’re not always necessary — is a bride walking down the aisle preceded by a 7-year-old carrying a sign that says, Here Comes the Bride, adorable or a little too self-evident? — there is a place for signage at most weddings, whether for practical reasons or just for fun.
Let’s look at the wedding signage trend, good, silly, and in-between.
· Welcome signs. Looking for a tangible way to show how happy you are to see your guests, besides greeting them personally? A welcome sign may be just what you need. There’s even a more practical purpose: If your wedding will be in a large venue where multiple ceremonies are going on at the same time, signage will help ensure your guests are at the right one.
Welcome signs let you stretch the limits of your creativity, and they don’t have to be costly. Having an outdoor wedding? Use reclaimed wood. Or what about a letter board? They’re widely available at craft and discount stores.
If you’re thinking of going a bit more upscale and want something truly unique, how about a translucent acrylic sign? They’re perfect for weddings with a mid-century vibe, according to brides.com. On the other hand, frosted acrylic signs are often considered more sophisticated and elegant, as the examples at elegantweddinginvites.com “clearly” illustrate.
A popular sign at weddings today says something like, Pick a Seat, Not a Side. Not only does this tell guests that instead of following some age-old tradition they can sit wherever they want it also signifies a true blending of families.
· Signage as part of the décor. The pros at junebugweddings.com say that signs are a novel way to reflect your and your intendeds’ personalities and can be as memorable as the flowers or other décor. If you fell in love to what’s now your favorite song, how about printing the lyrics on a sign? Have a favorite poem that speaks to both of your hearts? Display that, too. And here’s another neat tip: Signage that outlines your wedding and reception timeline can keep help make sure no one misses anything.
· Directional signage. Are your wedding and reception going to be in different places? In the age of Waze and Google Maps, people might not need directions from one venue to the next. Still, a sign reminding guests who are leaving the ceremony where to go next is a nice, thoughtful touch.
· Gentle reminders. On the topic of digital technology, a sign that reminds guests to silence their cell phones before the ceremony starts can be sweet and to the point without sounding like a scold.
With COVID-19 worries still around us, signage can help guests understand the protocols — whether they should wear a mask or social distance, for example — and make everyone feel more comfortable. Giving out masks? A sign that invites guests to take one is a nice touch.
· Unique or useful information. According to writeprettyforme.com, when a New Jersey couple decided to forego wedding favors and donate to a favorite non-profit, instead, a calligraphed sign said it all. They listed the charity and in whose memories they had made the contribution. A touching tribute, to be sure.
Now, it’s unlikely that anyone would mistake bug spray or sunscreen for a wedding favor. If your nuptials are taking place outdoors, however, a table set up with those helpful items and a sign that says tells guests to help themselves will probably be greatly appreciated.
· For making memories and taking special photographs. When it’s time to take the formal photos after the ceremony, Bridalguide.com suggests snapping a shot of the bridal party with each member holding a sign that says how they met the bride, groom, or couple.
They also propose a photo of the newlyweds with a sign that says, “Happily Ever After, Just Married, or Oh Happy Day.”
Now, for the big question: Do you have to have signs at your wedding? The answer is, of course not. Couples have been successfully tying the knot without them for centuries. Your wedding is what you make it. However, with all the sensible, beautiful, clever, and romantic sign ideas out there, it’s likely you’ll find one you just can’t resist including.
About the Author:
Roger Igo is the founder and CEO of special events venue, The Bell Tower on 34th, along with Houston catering service Excellent Events, and research resource, Venues in Houston. He is the author of “Keep On Going, The History of The Bell Tower on 34th,” a former radio host, a graduate of CEO Space International, and an alumnus of The Disney Institute.
