The ceremony program is a wedding detail that is often overlooked or left to the last minute. However, when the program is well thought out, it's an opportunity for the bride and groom to creatively convey the timeline of ceremony events, along with other details such as a list of wedding-party members, explanations of traditions, and a thank-you message to friends and family. Your guests will appreciate having a guide to the ceremony — their questions about who's who and what's happening will be answered. Plus, they'll feel included and can relax and enjoy your ceremony. Here are a few of our favorite options (beyond a basic folded program!).
Calligraphed Display: Eliminate the hassle of passing out or cleaning up individual programs with an oversized sign. Hire a calligrapher to write the ceremony details onto a large surface, such as a wood slab or even a piece of canvas. Then, display the sign near the ceremony entrance.
Photo: This Modern Romance
Paper Airplanes: If you and your groom are a globetrotting couple (or perhaps you met in grade school?), print the ceremony timeline onto colorful sheets of paper and fold them into paper airplanes. Place them on each guest's seat.
Photo: Michelle Edgemont
Confetti: This whimsical DIY project combines the ceremony program with the exit-toss materials: Print the ceremony details onto glassine envelopes and then fill each one with colorful confetti.
Photo: Clane Gessel
Popcorn Box: Why not provide guests with a snack as they wait for the ceremony to begin? Print the timeline on the side of miniature popcorn boxes and voilà: a creative program that doubles as a yummy treat.
Photo: Q Weddings
Chalkboard: Greet your guests with a stylishly hand-lettered chalkboard detailing the wedding festivities. Ask your florist to create a garland of fresh greenery and blooms to drape over the display.