Photographed by Tonhya Kae
In the weeks, months, years, and even decades after the wedding, you will stop to smile and remember what happened that day. As nostalgia hits you hard, you may have the urge to flip through the guestbook. So, how can we make it special? All you need is the help of the camera and a little imagination.
Consider using Polaroid guestbook as a way to commemorate your wedding. Usually hardcover albums, guestbooks contain Polaroid photos of guests and thoughtful messages for married couples. Earlier, experts Jessie Whitfield, Natasha Miller and EJ Dilley explained how to set up a Polaroid guestbook-including inspiration from real couples!
Setting up a Polaroid guestbook is affordable and easy. If you are preparing for this part of the DIY reception, you do not need to buy a lot of expensive equipment. This is a quick shopping list to help you get started:
If you want to add some energy to the day (and it suits your wedding style), you can also invest in some photo props for your photos. Before choosing your reception, please consider how it will suit your reception.
After collecting all the materials, it is time to consider where to set up the Polaroid guestbook. The exact location will depend on your venue, but there are a few important points to keep in mind. In short, your station should be located in an area that guests can easily reach, not too busy, and have enough space.
"The best place to place the Polaroid guestbook is in a well-lit area where guests can see all night and in a dry and windless area," Whitfield explained. “Don’t set up Polaroid guestbooks, including beside bars, because it’s too crowded, beside bands or DJs, or out of sight.”
Needless to say, your wedding reception is likely to be very busy. You least want the photo station to hinder the party. Instead, guests should see it the moment they walk in the door, so they can wish you good luck, take a picture of themselves, and post it on the guestbook.
"Choosing a booth will not hinder the party or the location of the door, and guests will not miss the station," Miller added. "This may be next to the seating plan at the reception." This is your choice!
Are you ready for your guests to say cheese? Before you start working, you may need some additional tips. Let's take a look at some expert advice to help you make Polaroid guestbooks the secret of success.
Is there a specific person you can trust to supervise the photography station? "Guests who are not familiar with Polaroid may ruin the entire package of film, so keep this in mind," Dili revealed. "Because this movie is quite expensive, I encourage you to let one person or several people take turns overseeing the guestbook."
Don't let your guests guess! Although taking pictures and writing messages is hardly rocket science, your loved ones may need help. Dilley added: "List a description of what you want your guests to do. For example:'Stand 6-10 feet away from the camera, take a picture, paste the image on the guestbook and sign a text message on the image Down!'"
Worried that your photo site is too busy? You may want to consider setting up a few tables so that guests can do their own thing. “If guests take photos by themselves, consider setting up multiple sites because there may be bottlenecks,” Dilley said.
Lighting can make or break the picture. Please keep this in mind when choosing where to place the Polaroid guestbook. "If you are indoors at noon, the indirect sunlight from the windows is good, if you are outdoors at noon, there is a awning, and if you are indoors at night, there is plenty of light," Dilley said.
Can't see natural light? do not panic. Miller said: "If the reception is during the day, you can set up a simple ring light for the station, or face the booth opposite the window, and natural light enters." A string of warm white or colored lights. "
The most affordable option is to have a DIY photo station at your wedding. However, if your budget has enough space, hiring an expert can make this souvenir look professional. "If you can hire a photo booth company to run your Polaroid guestbook experience, we strongly recommend that you do this because it simplifies things and ensures you have a high-quality guest experience," Whitfield said.
Looking for some inspiration to help you along the way? We are at your service. Here are some examples of our favorite Polaroid guestbooks to keep you creative.
Photography by Caroline Yoon; event curated by Emily Coyne
The Polaroid guestbook at this wedding is simple and exquisite, and it is a classic setting. We also like to add framed explanatory signs.
Photography: Damien Hamilton Photography
Share instant pictures with your guests by giving them a place to hang them. You can take photos and create your own guest book at the end of the event. simple!
If you really plan to hang your photos, why not make a full-face Polaroid photo? Weave photos between climbing plants to create a cool modern effect.
Photography: Abby Jiu Photography
Keep things clean and simple. When you set up the Polaroid guestbook, please make sure that the camera you choose matches the decoration.
Show guests how it is done! If you want the ball to roll, why not be the first to take a quick shot and add it to the front of the Polaroid guestbook.
It is not difficult to style your Polaroid guestbook. You can add a mirror to help your guests perfect their selfie look and some additional options.
Turn your guestbook into a real artwork. Combine things with message tags and Polaroids to create a cool framed souvenir.
Rick Atroy; Tara Skinner's event planning weddings and events
Fun and creative, adding some colorful markers to your photo station is a good idea. You can also ask your guests for some useful marriage advice.
Instead of writing instructions for your guests, take things to the next level. Buying a custom glass sign for your photo station is top-notch.
Photo courtesy of Madison Hope Photography
The classic atmosphere is nothing more complicated than this. In this wedding, the couple matched the Polaroid camera with their eternal theme.
Feel the beach? We like this bohemian Polaroid guestbook, suitable for romantic summer weddings.
If you want to add fun to the Polaroid guestbook, why not prepare some color film for the camera? This is easy and very effective.
Rick Atroy; Tara Skinner's event planning weddings and events
Planning to hang up your Polaroid for everyone to see? You can make full use of the functions of the venue and find a perfect place to connect things.
Photo courtesy of flora and fauna
Encourage your guests to be as creative as possible when posing. We like these pictures of John Scheer and Tracy Nour's exquisite wedding day.
Flora and flora; event planning for large and small events
Whether you are planning an indoor or outdoor party, setting up a Polaroid guestbook is very simple. Try a fuss-like approach like this gorgeous but effortless aesthetic.
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