A wedding program is a keepsake that helps guests follow along with the ceremony and provides information about the couple and their big day. While there are plenty of pre-made wedding programs available for purchase, many couples opt to create their own DIY programs to add a personal touch and save money.
If you’re considering making your own wedding programs, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that they turn out beautifully and are a meaningful addition to your special day.
Decide on a Design
Before you start crafting your wedding programs, it’s important to decide on a design that fits your wedding theme and personal style. There are plenty of templates available online that you can use as a starting point, or you can create your own design from scratch using design software like Canva or Adobe Illustrator.
Some popular design options include simple, elegant designs with a monogram or floral element, rustic designs with kraft paper and twine, or bold, modern designs with bright colors and geometric shapes. The key is to choose a design that reflects your wedding style and personality.
Choose Your Paper and Printing Method
Once you’ve decided on a design, you’ll need to choose the paper and printing method for your DIY wedding programs. There are a few different options to consider:
- Printable paper: If you have access to a high-quality printer, you can print your programs on specialty paper designed for printing invitations and other wedding stationery. This is a cost-effective option that allows you to easily print your programs at home.
- Cardstock or other paper: If you don’t have a printer or prefer a thicker paper, you can print your programs on cardstock or other specialty paper and then cut them to size. This option may require a trip to a print shop or craft store to purchase the paper and have it cut to size.
- Handwritten: If you have beautiful handwriting or calligraphy skills, you can write your wedding programs by hand on a plain piece of paper or cardstock. This option is very personalized and adds a unique touch to your wedding programs.
Add Relevant Information
Once you’ve chosen your design and printing method, it’s time to add the relevant information to your wedding programs. This may include the order of events for the ceremony, the names of the bridal party, the officiant, and any readings or music that will be included in the ceremony.
You may also want to include information about your wedding reception, such as the location, time, and any special events or activities that will take place. If you have any special instructions for your guests, such as dress code or directions to the ceremony or reception venues, you can include these in your wedding program as well.
Add Personal Touches
To make your DIY wedding programs truly special, consider adding personal touches that reflect your unique relationship and wedding style. This may include photos of the couple, personalized messages or quotes, or special anecdotes about your relationship or the wedding planning process.
You can also add decorative elements to your wedding programs, such as ribbon, twine, or small charms that match your wedding theme or colors. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make your wedding programs truly one-of-a-kind.
Finalize and Print
Once you’ve added all the necessary information and personal touches to your wedding programs, it’s time to finalize and print them. Make sure to proofread your programs carefully to avoid any spelling or grammar errors, and double-check that all the information is correct.
If you’re printing your wedding programs at home, make sure your printer is stocked with plenty of ink and paper, and print a test copy to ensure the colors and quality are as you intended. If you’re having your programs printed at a print shop, make sure to bring your finalized design and discuss any special requests or requirements with the staff.
Assemble Your Wedding Programs
Once your wedding programs are printed, it’s time to assemble them. This may involve cutting the paper to size, folding it, and adding any decorative elements or embellishments.
If you’re using a binding method, such as stapling or tying with ribbon or twine, make sure to practice on a few test copies to ensure that the binding is secure and looks the way you want it to.
If you’re including additional elements, such as a map or directions to the reception venue, make sure to include these in the program in a way that is easy for guests to access and use.
Distribute Your DIY Wedding Programs
Finally, it’s time to distribute your DIY wedding programs to your guests. You can place them on chairs before the ceremony or have a designated person hand them out as guests arrive.
Make sure to have enough programs for all of your guests, and consider having a few extras on hand just in case. You may also want to keep a copy of your wedding program as a memento of your special day.
Conclusion
Making your own DIY wedding programs is a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding day and save money on stationery costs. With a little planning, creativity, and attention to detail, you can create beautiful and meaningful programs that your guests will cherish for years to come.
Remember to choose a design that reflects your wedding style and personality, and to add relevant information and personal touches that make your programs unique. With a little effort, your DIY wedding programs can be a beautiful and memorable addition to your special day.