Event Signage: A Complete Guide
Getting down to final planning details of your wedding day can be intimidating. Especially when it comes to event signage and the variety of options available. First questions to consider: Which signs are essential? What event signage is just nice to have? What can you skip? But then… There’s materiality - Foam boards, acrylic, or mirror?
Let’s break it down together and weigh all of the options.
Types of Event Signage to Consider
Welcome Signs
Elevate your guest experience by strategically placing Welcome Signs to guide and captivate guests from the moment they enter the space. Exploring options that go beyond the ordinary, from simple welcome signs to full guest experiences and day-of timelines. Not only welcome them, but inform them of locations, time of events, and next steps.
Consult with your venue regarding outdoor locations, windy spots, and areas where guests often get lost. Opt in for sturdier heavy-weight signs, steering clear of mirrors in gusty venues. However, don't overlook the impact of custom event signage indoors, where it can truly shine and be even more present for guests' eyes.
For welcome signs, we always recommend larger scale with sizes like 16x20", 18x24", and 24x36" or bigger, ensuring your welcome sign leaves an unforgettable impression.
Seating Charts
When it comes to event signage, the seating chart is a prime opportunity to inject your unique style into the event.
Logistically, the go-to alphabetical order for names and table numbers is the most straightforward approach. Consider breaking away from the norm for a more distinctive touch with the actual design and detailing. Avoid organizing names by table number, which can turn finding names into a treasure hunt. Size matters, so choose dimensions that prioritize legibility for all your guests. Before diving into material choices and purchases, assess your guest count and make sure your list fits the sign.
Our host’s favorite options:
One large sign with the names in alphabetical order + table number - this is best for buffet dinners
Large Sign + Place Cards already on the dining tables - this is best for a plated dinner
A table of Place Cards or Escort Cards - also great for a plated or family style dinner
Place Cards + Escort Cards
Place cards, those charming little cards guests misplace at cocktail hour!! They play a pivotal role in guiding guests to their designated tables and specifying their chosen meals. Not only do attendees rely on these cards for seating arrangements, but catering teams also depend on them to discern individual preferences, allergies, and meal selections.
Our advice? Opt for large clear fonts over intricate calligraphy for legibility. Additionally, consider using clear or, better yet, metallic reflective meal selection stickers. The latter ensures easy visibility in the dim or low light of a dinner setting, streamlining the overall dining experience for everyone involved.
Bar Signs
Elevate the fun factor at your event by showcasing your signature drinks with some seriously cool personalized signage! Whether you want to add a dash of personality with pets, reminisce about travels, or simply list your all-time favorite drinks, the possibilities are as exciting as your imagination.
Don't be afraid to go smaller with sizes like 8x10 or 9x12 – they still pack a punch! To keep the vibe intact, we suggest framing them up in glass or acrylic to avoid any unexpected spills on the bar. Let's turn those drink choices into conversation starters with signage that's as cool and unique as your taste!
Memorial Tables
Creating a meaningful space to honor your loved ones holds a special place at any event. We often recommend a Memorial Table at wedding receptions or family gatherings. One thoughtful suggestion is to craft small tent cards for individuals' names featured in all of the photos, providing context for guests who may not be familiar with them. This personal touch allows guests to make connections, such as identifying Eleanor Roosevelt as Emily's great-grandmother, etc..
Additionally, reserving chairs for recently departed or close family members in the ceremony or reception adds a sweet and personal dimension to the commemoration. Enhance this gesture by adorning the reserved chairs with roses, photographs, and perhaps a small tented card featuring their name or a brief remembrance, creating a heartfelt tribute that resonates throughout the event.
Miscellaneous Event Signage
Opting for a more budget-friendly approach at your event signage? Consider skipping the guest book, gifts & cards, and photo booth signage unless absolutely necessary. If your guest book requires some guidance or instructions, then a small sign might be warranted. However, simplicity is the key here! A straightforward 8x10 or a similar-sized sign will suffice, keeping costs in check without compromising on style or taking up a lot of table real estate.
Event Signage Material Options
Acrylic Signs
Acrylic signs are a versatile choice for wedding signage, offering a range of colors, including pastels, solids, and even clear options to be back painted. They can be customized to match the aesthetic of your wedding, making them suitable for welcome signs, seating charts, and more. Acrylic signs come in various sizes and can be sourced from platforms like Etsy or our recommended custom designers. (Check out our Recommended Vendor List again) While they are lightweight, making them susceptible to wind outdoors, their durability and resistance to breakage are notable advantages. However, recycling acrylic can be challenging.
Mirrors
Mirrors provide a sleek and stylish option for any type of wedding signage. They can be obtained through various means, including purchasing, renting, or exploring local thrift stores for unique finds. Similar to acrylic, mirrors can be customized either by a designer or with the help of tools like a cricket and ruler. Renting mirrors from calligraphers is a cost-effective option with minimal environmental impact. Mirrors can be a versatile addition to your wedding day, and if chosen wisely, they can be repurposed in your home afterward.
Paper & Foam Core
Consider paper or foam core as a cost-effective option for creating wedding signs of any type. Printing services from companies like FedEx offer a variety of paper options, with mounted posters on foam backing recommended for larger signs such as welcome signs or seating charts. These stand easily on easels but might not always be suitable for outdoor use due to their lightweight nature. Paper signage provides an economical choice without compromising on style. Depending on the sign, it could also be framed in a standard photo frame or larger frame from a craft store.
Everything Else
Explore a myriad of materials to create wedding signs that align with your theme. Wood, fabric, leaves, linen, leather, cotton, and silk offer diverse options. Fabric signs, especially those crafted with layered, hanging panels, can serve as standout centerpieces. Natural materials like wood provide a special, rustic vibe and are a budget-friendly alternative to acrylic or mirrors. For a modern twist with wood signs, consider painting them in a solid color before adding lettering. Float frames, with lettering enclosed between glass panes, offer weather resistance and scratch protection, making them an excellent choice for outdoor events. With a wealth of materials at your disposal, you can truly personalize your wedding signage to reflect your unique style.
Lastly, what to say on them??
Other than “Welcome” and “Please Be Seated,” there’s a million things you can have on your event signage — and a perfect opportunity to be cheeky, too. Whether it's a heartfelt quote, a whimsical phrase, or a personalized message that speaks volumes about your love story or event, the possibilities are as varied as the chapters in your journey.
Let’s explore some unique ideas that will not only welcome your guests but also leave a lasting impression etched in the memories of your event.
Welcome Signs
Typically welcome signs have the couple’s name, date, and just say welcome… but what if they said:
“Can I get a Witness?”
Your favorite quote with your names and date underneath
“Welcome to the Celebration of (name and name)”
“Welcome — Get Ready to Party!”
“The Party Starts Here — Welcome to the Wedding of (name and name)”
“We’re So Glad You’re Here — Welcome to the Wedding of (name and name)”
“It’s a Nice Day for a White Wedding”
“And the Adventure Begins”
“Let’s Do This”
“Welcome to the Best Day Ever”
A Custom Monogram
Seating Charts
Even though the information on your seating chart is essential, you still have the opportunity for a fun header across the top to catch their eye!
“Your Seat Awaits”
”We Saved You a Seat”
“Be Seated”
“Find Your Seat”
“Your Friends for the Evening”
“Eat, Drink, and Be Married”
“Assigned Seats are Not Our Style — Sit Anywhere That Makes You Smile”
Schedule of Events Signs:
Sometimes you need to let guests know what’s up next!! A simple timeline or schedule of events sign can be a great way to keep everyone informed without announcing it over the loud speaker.
“Let’s Do This”
“Our Wedding Day — How This Thing is Gonna Go Down”
“Best Day Ever”
“The Game Plan”
Bar Signs
“All You Need is Love and an Open Bar”
“Open Bar for Your Enjoyment”
“Tonight’s Drinks are Free — Tomorrow’s Stories are Priceless”
“Bottoms Up”
“Sip, Sip, Hooray”
“Drinks are on Us”
“Our Drinks”
Wedding Ceremony Signs
“No Sides, Just Good Vibes”
“We’re All Family Now — Open Seating”
“Welcome to our Unplugged Ceremony. Please turn off all cell phones and devices and share this moment with us.”
“Please Sit or Stand on Either Side — We’re All Family Once the Knot is Tied”
Bonus Sign Wording
Song lyrics
Your vows
Funny relationship quotes from your favorite shows or movies
“Then There’s the Afterparty”
Giant Mirror that just says, "You Look Hot!”
After the event… now what?
Now that your event is over, how do you get the lettering off?
For mirrors, you can usually remove lettering with Windex or rubbing alcohol (just let it sit a few minutes, if needed) and wipe. You can also remove it with a clean razor blade. Make sure you use a new blade so as to not scratch the mirror (trust us on that one).
For acrylic, you can use Windex, alcohol, or acetone (depending on the lettering ink) but you have to be super careful to not let acetone sit too long. Use a light hand and test it in a small area. For other materials, sometimes the lettering is permanent but you can always display them like art in your home as memories of the best day ever!
Hope all of these event signage tips are helpful to you!!
Check out the rest of our blog for more useful tips and tricks for the complete wedding planning process. Or give us a ring if you need more ideas for your list, because we would love to be a bigger part of your special day.
Look forward to hearing from you!
Written by: Neva
As a fellow BW Studio Associate Planner, and consummate crafter and calligrapher, Neva has tons of wonderful ideas for how to make your event signage one of a kind!! We can’t wait to share these ideas and more. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Talk soon!