For years, the matted photo was the guest book of choice. You know, the one where you write a message for the bride and groom on an oversized photo mat?
Now, there’s a new guest book in town…
The typewriter guest book has definitely taken center stage when it comes to alternatives to the traditional guest book. For good reason…
Typewriter Guest Books :: The What
Though couples have been using typewriters as their guest books for a few seasons now, Martha Stewart really pushed this trend into the height of its popularity by featuring it on her website.
Says Martha:
Set out an old-fashioned typewriter with long sheets of paper for guests to write good wishes to the bride and groom as the feeling strikes. Look for inexpensive vintage machines online or at thrift stores or flea markets; they come in colors to go with any palette. After the wedding, tie into a scroll with ribbon.
It’s simple, you just set a vintage typewriter out with paper and guests leave you a message. After the wedding, you can have the pages bound or scroll them as Martha suggests.
Typewriter Guest Books :: The How
The Typewriter :: Find or purchase a working vintage typewriter (more on that later).
The Paper :: Use a long piece of paper as Martha suggests (you can find rolls of paper at most stationery stores) or use multiple pieces of paper. Choose paper that coordinates to your wedding decor or choose something classic that you’ll love for years to come.
The Organization :: Place the typewriter and paper on a front table. You might type the first message…something like ‘Leave a message for the bride & groom’. Or, you can print a separate sign to place on the table. Decorate the table with elements of your wedding decor.
The Messages :: Decide if you’d like guests to type their messages consecutively on the same piece of paper or if you’d like each guest’s message to be on a separate page. Leave instructions depending on your preference.
The Keepsake ::Have the pages bound professionally with photos from your wedding. Or, simply scroll the pages and adorn with ribbon. Revisit your messages on your anniversary each year.
Typewriter Guest Books :: The Where
Before you start shopping for typewriters, hit up your friends and relatives. Someone may have an old typewriter up in their attic just waiting for a clever, and touching use!
If you can’t find one, your best bet is Craigslist or Ebay. There are TONS of vintage typewriters listed in both places. Most run about $50. Buying one online will prevent you from running all over town from garage sale to garage sale.
Typewriter Guest Books :: The Why
If following a trend is something you shy away from, you might consider breaking that rule for this of all things; there are many reasons to jump on this bandwagon.
Cost :: The typewriter guest book is one of the cheapest options out there for guest books. All you have to buy is the typewriter (unless you find one) and the paper. It’s true, it can be costly if you decide to buy a super vintage collectible or if you choose to have your pages professionally bound. But, it can be super cheap.
Simplicity :: Unlike other DIY guest book options, there’s not a ton of preparation to be done. Just set the typewriter and paper out and you’re done!
Keepsake :: Not only will your messages be a keepsake you can revisit year after year, the typewriter itself will be a great keepsake! Incorporate it into your home decor after the wedding.
Appearance :: The typewriter will add a touch of class to your wedding decor. Find a typewriter that matches your wedding colors or one that is beautifully vintage.
So, what do you think? Is the typewriter guest book idea too trendy? Or, is it just so perfect that you can’t help but have a typewriter at your wedding?
For more alternatives to the traditional guest book, read this post :: Unique Guest Book Ideas.
