Wedding Welcome Signs: Sizes, Wording and Ideas

The right size depends on where you plan to put the sign and how much text you need. For an outdoor sign at the entrance to your venue, go large, around 90cm by 60cm or bigger, so it can be seen from a distance. For an indoor sign on an easel near the entrance, a smaller size, such as 60cm by 40cm, often works well.

Think about the number of words you want to include. A simple welcome message with your names and the date needs less space than a long poem or a list of instructions. If you are using a mirror or a fabric sign, the size will also depend on what is available and how much you want to spend. A good rule is to make the sign big enough to read without squinting, but not so big that it overwhelms the space.

There are several ways to make a welcome sign, depending on your budget and how crafty you feel. You can buy a ready-made sign and personalise it with vinyl lettering or a marker pen. You can also create a digital design using simple software and print it at home or at a local print shop.

If you want a more handmade look, consider painting a wooden board or an old window frame. You can use chalk paint for a classic feel, or acrylic paint for a more durable finish. For a mirror sign, use a glass marker or a paint pen that you can wipe off later if you want to reuse the mirror.

A fabric sign is another option. You can buy a piece of cotton or linen, hem the edges, and either paint your wording with fabric paint or use iron-on vinyl. Fabric signs are lightweight and easy to transport, and they can be hung with ribbons or attached to a wooden frame.

The essential signs are the welcome sign, a sign for the order of the day, and signs for key areas like the ceremony, the drinks reception, and the dining room. You might also want signs for the guest book, the gift table, the cake table, and the photo booth.

If you are having an unplugged ceremony, you will need a sign asking guests to put away their phones and cameras. If you are having a 'pick a seat not a side' ceremony, a sign explaining that can be helpful. You may also want signs for the bar, the toilets, and the exit, especially if your venue is large or confusing.

Think about the flow of your day. Walk through the venue as a guest would, and note where they might need guidance. A sign at the entrance to the car park, a sign pointing to the ceremony field, and a sign for the cloakroom can all make a big difference.

An unplugged wedding ceremony means that guests are asked to switch off their phones and cameras and be fully present during the ceremony. The couple often hires a professional photographer and videographer, so guests do not need to take their own photos.

A sign is a polite way to communicate this. It can say something like: 'We've hired a wonderful photographer to capture our ceremony. Please switch off your phones and cameras and enjoy the moment with us.' This wording is friendly and explains why you are asking.

You can also have your celebrant or registrar make an announcement at the start of the ceremony. Combining a sign with a verbal request is usually the most effective way to get the message across.

Keep the wording warm and light-hearted. Avoid sounding bossy or negative. A simple message such as 'Please switch off your phones and cameras and celebrate with us in the moment' works well.

You could add a touch of humour: 'We promise to share our photos with you. Please put your phones away and enjoy the ceremony.' Or you could write: 'No photos, just us. Thank you for being here.'

The key is to be clear and kind. You want your guests to feel included, not scolded. If you have a photographer, you can mention that they will capture the day, so guests can relax.

'Pick a seat not a side' is a sign that tells guests they can sit anywhere during the ceremony, rather than choosing a side for the bride's family or the groom's family. It is a modern, inclusive approach that works for many couples, especially those who want to avoid any awkwardness or who have blended families.

This sign is a great idea if you do not have a traditional seating plan, or if you want to encourage guests to mix. It can be placed at the entrance to the ceremony space, and it is often written in a friendly, relaxed style.

If you are having a religious ceremony, check with your venue or officiant first, as some traditions have specific seating arrangements. But for many civil ceremonies, 'pick a seat not a side' is a lovely way to make everyone feel welcome.

There are many styles to choose from. A classic wooden sign with painted lettering suits a rustic or outdoor wedding. A mirror sign with gold or silver writing adds elegance to a formal venue. A fabric sign with a simple font is perfect for a boho or vintage theme. You could also use a chalkboard, an acrylic sheet, or a framed print.

For the stand, you have several options. An easel is a common choice for indoor signs. A wooden A-frame stand is sturdy for outdoor use. You can also hang a sign from a tree, a fence, or a shepherd's hook. If you are using a fabric sign, you can attach it to a wooden dowel and hang it with ribbon.

Think about the weight of your sign and the surface where it will stand. On grass, you will need a stand with legs that can be pushed into the ground, or you can use weights. On a hard floor, an easel is usually stable. Make sure the stand is secure so the sign does not blow over in the wind.