Not Your Average Guestbook

The guestbook is the perfect way to remember all of the beautiful people who helped you celebrate on your Big Day, but maybe not the guestbook in the traditional sense. A tradition that has run for decades, the guestbook serves as a way for guests to leave their well-wishes and words of wisdom to the newlyweds during the reception. The pages will surely be read, but how often are these books cracked open after they have been read once before? My guess is that guestbooks, like photo albums, find their way onto the bookshelf and are skimmed through every once in a blue moon.

More and more couples are finding ways to put these messages on display in their homes after their weddings, and have come up with some pretty crafty ideas. What better way to remember the day than by sharing your loved ones thoughts and well-wishes on a daily basis? Here are some fun alternatives to the traditional book that will keep those memories alive long after the day has ended

1. Plates

This idea is super cool and unique, and will give an extra personal touch to your home. Have guests sign antique plates with interesting borders and hang them on the wall in your living room, entryway, kitchen, bedroom – wherever! Mix in some patterned pieces to add some variety. Plates are often used in home décor, and what better way to make them truly unique.

2. Shells

For all you beach lovers out there, this one is right up your alley. Shells are perfect for weddings with nautical or earthy themes. Once your guests have signed them, place them in glass jars or decorative bowls and display them on your coffee table, entryway console, or wherever you see them best fit.

3. Atlas Pages

This is personally one of my favorites, and is also perfect for travelers and explorers. Choose maps and atlas pages of your favorite destinations, or ones you hope to one day visit, and leave them out for your guests to sign throughout the night. Frame the finished products as a reminder of the day, where you have been, and where you hope to go.

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4. Fingerprint Art

Wedding trees, thumbprint balloons, heart collages and a number of other designs are becoming custom, personalized works of art for newlyweds. Have an ink pad or two at your guest table for loved ones to leave their mark on your special day.

5. Quilt Patches

Stitch these together after your wedding and make a quilt or two. These are durable and a comforting reminder of your big day. Make sure to use fabric ink so these messages don't get washed away!

6. Polaroid Book

While they may seem dated compared to today's high-def photos, who doesn't love a polaroid? Leave a couple cameras around the reception venue for guests to take some photos, sign them, and leave them in a book for you to look back on. Yes, it's still a book, but this combo photo album/guestbook also gives you a view of the night from your guests perspective.

7. Vinyl Records

This option is a great way to show off your personality as a couple. Pick up some vinyls of your favorite bands and artists, and leave them for your guests to sign. Frame them to put up in your home, and you have instant custom art reminiscent of your day. (Bonus: you can get these for a little as $1 – maybe even less – at antique shops or garage sales!)