Wedding :: WEDNESDAY :: Creative Guest Book Ideas

A guest book is an expected item at every wedding, but can be completley impractical. The traditional guest book with lines inside for each attendee to sign, soon finds itself in a box collecting dust. The couple may look through and see who all attended the wedding, but weeks and years later, it is simply a book in a box. Thankfully guest books have become so much more creative. Here are a few of my favorite I found while searching the internet:

1. Message Chandellier: I love the use of the colorful plastic or glass provided for guests to write a short personal message that is then attached to a chandellier shaped wire frame. A great piece of memorable art!
2. Guest Quilt: Having a DIY wedding? This quilt is a great idea that allows guests to sign their name and makes a great piece of wall art or cozy blanket for two.
3. Guest Quilt (2): Here's another idea that uses quilt pieces that guests sign and record a message that will later be sown by grandma or other family member.
4. Contact Cards: I love this idea! What a great way to not only know who attended your wedding, but also keep record of their contact information in this cute and very practical guest book!
5. Vintage Typewriter: If you're having a vintage theme wedding, a typewriter would be such a perfect idea for a guest book. It's a fun way for attendees to type their name and message. Although the paper may not have another purpose, who wouldn't love to display a typewriter in their home?
6. Scrapbook: I love the use of a scrapbook and small envelopes in this photo. Guests sign small business card size pieces and then slip them in individual envelopes. It's a fun and interactive guest book!
7. Thumbprint Tree: I LOVE this idea and may have to borrow it when/if my time comes. Guests literally add their personal touch to a piece of art guest book. With a little bit of finger print ink (and a wet towel to wipe fingers!), this guestbook becomes instant art. Tree-rific!
8. Paint by Number: This is also a really fun and interactive activity for your guests. Although it may hold up the line coming into your ceremony, it would be the perfect time filler if you choose to have some time in between the ceremony and reception. Again, more art for your home!

(Not Pictured) Engagement Photobook: My friend Joanna had this at her wedding and it was a hit! Her photographer did an incredible job with their engagment photos then put them in a professional bound book. Not only did she leave white spaces around some photos for guests to sign and leave a message, but she also had little questions and topic starters like, "Why are Chris and Joanna a perfect match?" or "Where do you see us in 10 years?" It was so fun for us guests to flip through and see their engagement pictures as well as leave a personal note, or answer a fun questions. I'm sure it will make a great coffee table book and fun for their kids to see someday!