Creative Program Ideas

Feel like getting a little more creative with your program? I think that's a great idea! After all, it's the only reading material your guests have while they wait for the Big Moment when you walk down the aisle. A wedding program is at minimum, a schedule of events and participants but I like to think of it as a way to bring your guests in to your special day. It also can create a welcoming atmosphere for your guests by sharing and explaining what is going on during your ceremony. Many guests won't know what the heck is going on, and the program can give them important information such as: Who's that cute groomsman at the end? Do I get in line for communion? What is the canopy over the couple and why did they just stomp on a perfectly good glass? When is the ceremony over? Do I wait to be released by the bride and groom or just take off for cocktails at the reception? These are small bits of information that might seem obvious to you, but they can make a big difference to your guests.

So you've got a captive and engaged audience, why not give them something even more interesting to read? How about sharing a little bit more of yourself, your relationship and some of the special people who are joining you?

Here are just a few ideas that add some personality into your program.
- Include some history of the church/synagogue. I've seen brides include the story of the stained glass window or how the church got it's name. Share why this space is sacred to you.
-Add some fun and games! Write a Mad-Lib about how you and your fiance met. Make a silly cross-word puzzle. I had one friend who created a map of the U.S. and put a dot on the place where the guests were from. She took this further by listing the guest's names and what city. She also reprinted the first few emails between she and her fiance when they were planning their first date and after. It was so much fun to read!
-Introduce your guests to the wedding party by explaining your relationship with them. This can be as simple as listing "cousin of bride" or paying homage to their special skills such as "best chocolate chip cookie maker ever"

This bride included photos of her wedding party:

Source: designspongeonline.com via Margot on Pinterest

Here is an example of a crossword puzzle on a fan. I like how the pencil is attached!

Source: intimateweddings.com via Keri on Pinterest

This program includes pictures of the bride and groom as youngsters. Such a great idea if you knew each other or dated in highschool!

Source: marthastewartweddings.com via Paper Moss on Pinterest

This program has the confetti (or birdseed?) attached with a glassine envelope. Ready just when you need it!

Source: marthastewartweddings.com via Heidi on Pinterest