Wedding programs are very popular at today's weddings. They provide
guests with an itinerary of the ceremony and are a good way to
identify and honor the wedding participants. They are useful in
explaining the meaning behind the symbols used in the ceremony
and provide a lasting keepsake of your special day. While wedding
programs aren't an absolute necessity, the personal touch they
provide make them a good addition to your wedding ceremony.
In choosing a wedding program it is important to point out that
they can be as simple or complex as you desire. You may have them
professionally printed, or you may opt to make them yourself.
Whatever your choice, you have many options available to you,
making it very easy to have a program that fits both your style
and your personality.
Professionally Printed or DIY (Do-it-Yourself)?
Professionally printed wedding programs can be the most hassle
free way to go. They can be ordered at the time you order your
wedding invitations. (In fact, many stationers offer discounts
to brides who order multiple items.) You may find this to be the
perfect time to order all your imprinted items such as invitations,
programs, napkins, matches, etc. You'll have taken care of several
tasks at once, while possibly even saving money. Another advantage
to professionally printed programs is the variety of styles from
which to choose. You may design your own cover or personalize
a stock program. Your stationer can assist you in making this
choice.
Many brides choose to make their own programs using any the many
software packages available for home publishing. While making
your own programs can add to the ever growing "Wedding To
Do List," you may find this to be a fun way to express your
own unique creativity. As with professionally printed programs,
there are several papers from which to choose to print your programs.
Just remember to allow an adequate amount of time for proofreading
before printing out the final version.
Whether your wedding program is professionally printed or self-made,
the creative possibilities are virtually endless. You may use
a single page program printed on heavy card stock with a decorative
edge or have a multiple page program that resembles a book when
folded and secured with a tassel or ribbon. Another popular style
is the scroll type program. This type of wedding program is printed
on heavy card stock, rolled to look like a scroll (hence, the
name), and secured with either a ribbon or a decorative metal
band. Each style is perfectly acceptable and provides your guests
with a souvenir of the day and a guide to the ceremony.
When to Distribute
Wedding programs are handed out as your guests are seated. This
gives your guests an opportunity to familiarize themselves with
the upcoming ceremony.
What to Include
The information included in your wedding program is entirely up
to you. However, a few things to consider including in addition
to the date, time, and location of the wedding are the names and
relationships of the participants to the bridal party. Letting
your guests know that your maid of honor is also your oldest and
dearest friend is a good way to help them feel connected to the
bridal party.
Many brides also include the order of the service-including the
readings and musical selections-as well as the names of the readers
and musicians. If the wedding crosses different religious or cultural
boundaries, the wedding program is the perfect place to explain
the different traditions and symbols involved in the ceremony.
Many couples also include printed versions of their marriage vows,
a special poem, or directions to the wedding reception.
No matter the design or what information is included, the program
you choose will be as unique as the two of you. Remember, while
a wedding program is not an absolute necessity, it keep your guests
informed and involved and is a lasting memento of your special
day.
Where to Get Your Programs
Do-it-Yourself Programs and Professionally Printed programs are
available online. Two great resources for these are:
WhereBridesGo.com
and
MSW
Interactive Designs - Programs Galore
~ by Sherrie Thompson
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