When Charlotte got married the first time on “Sex and the City,” Miranda groused when she was put in charge of the guest book. “People know what to do with a guest book,” Miranda told Carrie.
Not anymore. Today’s creative versions often require instructions. For instance, many couples want guests to sign alongside their photograph. Some hire a dedicated photographer for the shots. Traditionally, photographers used a Polaroid. The drawback: Guests must remember to return to the table when the shots are dry. With digital, guests can immediately sign next to their picture.
Photo booths are another option. “We provide a black linen album with a gold or silver pen,” says Jo Anne Hewlett, president of Make a Memory Event Planning and Make a Memory Photo Booths. “Guests make a note next to their pictures.”
Some couples have guests sign mats around the couple’s photograph. That’s not all. Hewlett has seen guests sign a mat around two Beatles fanatics’ albums. Another couple had guests sign a guitar, now on display in their home.
The wedding wishing tree lets guests write blessings on a tag, which they then hang on branches decorated with crystals, hanging candles or flowers, says Nicole Brennan, a partner in Lovely Lady Event Planning.
Blank books are open to creativity. The couple starts off with a phrase such as “One day, Sarah and Jeff got married…” Guests help tell the story after that. “It can get very funny,” Hewlett says.
Even Miranda might be amused.
