What printed materials will you need for your wedding? Chances are, you’ve probably thought about invitations along with materials for the reception such as place, table, and escort cards. However, ceremony programs also play a crucial role in many celebrations. With several key benefits and their aesthetic potential, your wedding programs can be a fun way to express your creativity and convey important information to guests.
Do We Need a Program?
An October 2014 Brides article clarifies that programs are an optional element for your wedding. If your ceremony is simple and your guests know the major players, you may not require them. Nevertheless, The Spruce writer Jessica Bishop recommends supplying programs if any of the following circumstances apply:
- Your guests come from religious or cultural backgrounds that differ from your own.
- The ceremony will be lengthy or contain unfamiliar elements.
- You want to mention details about the wedding party.
- You’d like to include a memorial dedication for deceased family members.
- You wish to thank vendors or other important people.
- You need to explain to your attendees how to reach your reception site from the ceremony.
Wedding Program Basics
Before you sit down and begin creating, it’s wise to map out a list of elements to include in your program’s text. As Bishop explains, it can be as expansive or as brief as you need to let your guests know what to expect. All in all, your wedding programs can serve several key purposes:
- Listing your ceremony’s order of service
- Conveying special information about your wedding
- Coordinating with the look and feel of your event
- Providing keepsakes for your guests to take home
Most versions include a cover, followed by the ceremony’s order of events, the names of wedding party members, and other optional information. Martha Stewart Weddings also suggests including photos of your wedding party members along with their bios for an added touch.
Consider Your Formatting Options
Depending on the length of your program and your own personal tastes, you have a wide range of formats from which to choose. Bridal Guide contributor Deborah Hefter explains that single sheets and folded cards are the most common versions. At the same time, a Z-fold or trifold program can be an elegant and unique way to present your information. Some couples opt for rolled-up editions tied with ribbons or multipage booklets. Ultimately, your formatting choice should support your end goals in terms of the program’s layout, ease of production, and budget. Ideally, it should also match your event’s overall aesthetic.
Designing Your Programs
Many couples design their programs with word processing or desktop publishing software. A few commonly used applications include Microsoft Word, Open Office Writer, or MS Publisher. Meanwhile, others such as Adobe InDesign or Quark Xpress possess advanced capabilities that can make the layout process fluid and effortless.
Regardless of what tools you use to create your programs, a key decision you must make is whether to print them in-house or outsource the project to a third-party printer. Keep in mind that home inkjet printers aren’t necessarily an efficient or cost-effective route, given their limited ability to handle certain varieties of cardstock and the high price of ink cartridges. Asking a local vendor to print your programs may be your best option. Finally, don’t forget to budget enough time and money for assembly and embellishments such as ribbons or glitter.
Beautifully Crafted and Useful
Your wedding programs aren’t just another way to infuse personal style into your special day. Communicating important details, explaining your ceremony’s order of service, and introducing your inner circle are only a few of their possible functions. With smart design and aesthetic touches, they’re also beautiful souvenirs commemorating one of the most important days of your lives.
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