Always! Just kidding. I'll try to stop the dumb jokes before the next blog post. But in all seriousness, programs are pretty important 🙂
Sidenote, if you missed my post about menus make sure to go back so you don’t miss a beat in the day-of stationery process!
So let’s get back to programs. Programs are a great way to guide your guests through your ceremony. Keep in mind your guests may not be aware of certain religious or cultural traditions so explaining these aspects of the ceremony will help them understand and participate. It’s also a great place to thank your guests for attending and mention loved ones who have passed.Â
Which type of ceremony program is best for you?
Programs come in all shapes and sizes. They can be really classic (think gold and ivory with a satin ribbon) or fun and whimsical (floral monograms and handwriting inspired fonts). So which type of ceremony program is best for you? Let’s find out!
Booklet Program
This folded program is a more modern take on our classic booklet. I love the sleek format and gold monogram. A thin satin ribbon adds a classic touch, perfect for a formal church ceremony. This lovely couple exchanged vows at St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Church in Great Neck and continued their celebration at de Seversky Mansion — hence the subtle art deco details.
Trifold Program
I LOVE trifold programs. They’re cute and compact, providing the perfect amount of space for a short and sweet ceremony. This one in particular shows off a floral monogram making it a great backdrop for a lovely ring photograph. These lovelies made their appearance at the oh-so-gorgeous mountaintop location, The Cliffs at Glassy Chapel in Landrum, South Carolina. See more of this wedding here.Â
I wouldn’t be my usual darling self if I didn’t throw in a photo from my own wedding so here’s a shot of my little green trifold from a few years ago 🙂
“Keep in mind your guests may not be aware of certain religious or cultural traditions so explaining these aspects of the ceremony will help them understand and participate”
If you’re planning an outdoor, summer ceremony or tropical destination wedding, fan programs are your perfect match. They explain all the ceremony details AND keep your guests cool and happy.
Single Page Program
A simple single page program is a pretty and cost-effective way to list your wedding party and ceremony details. We’re going back a few years to show you the sweet nautical program we created for one of our favorite couples. Here’s the backstory, they wanted a nautical (but not too nautical) invitation for their Westhampton Beach wedding. Nothing felt like a perfect match and we were at a standstill during the appointment UNTIL (cue dramatic music) the couple remembered that their zodiac signs are nautical (Pisces and Cancer) BOOM, DONE! Just like that, everyone was happy. Their custom crab and fish illustrations decorated everything from their wedding invitation to their custom cocktail napkins.Â
Program Sign
Okay, I have one more for you! The whole sign + easel trend is going strong so why not go that route with your wedding program? We design these in standard sizes so they’re easy to frame or your florist can pair it with greenery. Either way, it makes a lovely statement as your guests arrive.
Next…
Now the ceremony is over and it's almost time to seat your guests for the reception. Find out if a seating chart or escort cards is the best option for your wedding.
Happy planning!
xoxo, Fat Cat
- Modern Ceremony Program photography by Carina Skrobecki and styling by Cozbi Jean
- Gold Foil Booklet Program photographed by Joseph Lin PhotogaphyÂ
- Blush Fan Program photographed by Fat Cat Paperie
- Nautical Trifold Program photographed by Jaylim StudioÂ
- Classic Booklet Program photographed by Cadence KennedyÂ
- Watercolor Floral Program photographed by MORNINGWILD
- Rustic Trifold Program photographed by Becka PillmoreÂ
- Nautical Program photographed by Silverfox
- Program Sign photographed by Brianna Wilbur
Work with Fat Cat from your CouchÂ
Over-scheduled? Live out of town? Just don’t feel like changing out of your sweatpants to attend another wedding appointment? WE GET IT. We offer video consultations to make your life easier. And, it’s also a great way to work with a bunch of key family members who can’t be in the same place at the same time.
