Whether you are planning a wedding reception, a big birthday party, an engagement party, an anniversary or any other event, chances are you will want to make it special. You’ll want to have a fantastic time, and you’ll want your guests to make amazing memories and go home with a story to tell.
While the party itself is sure to be amazing, it’s those memories that really matter. We throw parties to commemorate special times in our lives. To celebrate things that mean something to us, and to bring together all of the people that we love to help us. We don’t want to forget. We want to look fondly back, remembering the party, what’s happened, what people wore, and who was there to celebrate with us.
At the time, you might not think much of it, but it’s really the guests that make the event, and when you look back, it’s them that you will want to remember.
That’s why guest books are so popular.
A guest book gives your friends and family a chance to leave you a message. To write something personal to show you how they feel, but also to help you remember not just the day itself, but also the relationships that made it so special. These guest book messages will be around long after the day is over, and when the memories have started to fade. But, while a guest book is terrific, if you fancy something a little different, or more up to date, there are some awesome alternatives that you could consider, either instead of or as well as a guest book.
A Photo Booth
If you are looking for something fun, photo booth hire could be perfect. A photo booth gives your guests a chance to take a picture to commemorate the day, away from the official photographs. These pictures can be fun and unique, and they’ll show a lot more personality than any professionally posed shots ever could. Have a guest book too, so that people can leave you a snap with a message, as well as taking some home for themselves.
But, a photo booth is more than just a way to create lasting memories. It also adds some entertainment to your event. Buy or rent some props and backdrops to go with your booth, and you’ll all have a fantastic time playing. It can be a brilliant icebreaker and keep everyone entertained all night long.
Video
Another cool alternative is a video camera or a station where people can record messages. It can be an exciting combination. They can play with the images while leaving you a message. While some people will record messages on their phones, having a proper setup, and even a camera operator will help to ensure you get some videos that are decent quality and make some sense to look back on.
Some people might feel uncomfortable or nervous about being on camera though, so even if you set one up, you might want to offer an alternative.
Get a Hashtag
Social media is huge. Throughout your party, your guests will be posting photos to Instagram, adding lives to their stories, and checking in on Facebook. But, looking back afterward can be tough. The images will be all over the place, you might not be tagged in them, and as much as you look, you might miss some of the best. So, get a hashtag for your event. Advertise it at the event and on your own social media channels and ask your guests to use it when they post photos and videos. That way you’ll be able to look back over them easily and save what you want to your personal photos.
Create Something
Your party might be a great chance to get some cool new home decor. Place a sizeable plain plant pot on every table with a selection of markers and ask your guests to decorate them. They’ll sign them, draw pictures, colour bits in and leave you messages. You’ll be able to use your pots at home later. Photo frames, planters, and vases are other great options.
Sticky Notes
Some people find it hard to come up with messages for a book. They feel under pressure to come up with something meaningful or long. A table with small sticky notes, perhaps hearts or balloons, and a board to stick them on can be an easy alternative. There’s only room for a small message, doodle or signature, so there’s less pressure. But, they’ll still help you to remember the people behind the note.
What is your favorite alternative idea to a traditional guest book?
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