Wedding Signage & Chicago Calligrapher Tips

 

We’re back with another easy #WFHWeddingPlanning task you can accomplish. You’d never expect how many signs you’ll need for your wedding day. Below we have a suggested list of signs to consider and tips from our favorite local Chicago calligrapher.

 

Find Your Sign

The photos above are the top five large pieces that organize your wedding day. From the ceremony welcome to the reception seating chart, they offer your guests the first impression of your decor.

This next set of signs are smaller details that make a big statement. Here’s where you can recommend your favorite cocktail or add some extra personality to the ceremony.

This is by no means the end of your signage list. There is always more to consider. Here’s a quick list of a few more:

• Dessert Table Signs (especially if you have non-cake desserts or gluten-free options)
• Decorative Signs
• Guestbook Sign
• Photobooth Sign
• Bathroom Basket Sign
• Memorial Table Sign

** VERY IMPORTANT BUT ALWAYS OVERLOOKED:  Bus signs. They do not have to be elaborate and can be printed from home.  There is often more than one wedding staying at a hotel so you want your wedding guests to get on the correct bus going to the ceremony and/or reception.

 

Tips from Calligraphy by CT

We asked one our of favorite Chicago wedding vendors, Calligraphy by CT, a few questions about the dos and don’ts of picking your wedding signage.

 

How do you recommend couples figure out their style?

Many times potential clients know JUST what they want and they shop my rental inventory and ask about availability. (See the rental inventory here.) Other times, there is an, “I’ll know it when I see it” kind of vibe, so I just ask questions like, “Where are you getting married?” or “Is the wedding and reception in the same location?” For example, I likely wouldn’t recommend a chalkboard if a couple is getting married at the Drake or the InterCon. An elegant, antique mirror would be more suited to old-world locations like these. For venues that can be dressed up or down, I DO encourage people to keep an open mind because you CAN complement chalkboards with mirrors or even wood with mirrors because it’s really sometimes the LETTERING that can tie signage together versus what surfaces are utilized.

 

Most common mistakes with picking signage? 

Sometimes couples get their hearts set on a particular mirror but there will be a LOT of names that need to fit on it. I’m just not a fan of seating charts that end up looking like telephone directory listings (not to mention older guests will have a tougher time navigating). When clients are adamant, though, I do my best to oblige. I also encourage clients to have the backs of their acrylic signs painted a nice contrasting color so that the wording will “pop.”

 

What are the pros of ordering handmade signs versus ordering through an online printer?

The feeling that a handmade sign can invoke is something that based on what you personally value, can be worth the extra money. The hand lettered signage displayed throughout one’s event is personal, guests pay attention to the craftsmanship (as well as the quality of the vehicle the sign has been lettered on) and they really become conversation pieces. People also love to see their own names written out in ways that they don’t see very often and I tell clients that you’ll usually spy calligraphed place cards sticking on your friend’s fridge long after the event has concluded!

 

Check out some of our favorite pieces from her work!

Follow her on Instagram at @calligraphybyct !

 

Thanks for reading part three of our #WFHWeddingPlanning series to help you plan your wedding while working from home. For more updates from your favorite Chicago wedding planner, Effortless Events, follow us on Instagram @effortless_events and like us on Facebook! Looking for more info on our services? Feel free to reach out to us at info@effortless-events.com.