It should be simple; really, it’s just a table and a place for wedding cards. Yet, if you are like most brides, you may be struggling with a few details about the card box and gift table. Where is the most practical and safe location for your table? How can you decorate the table using your theme or color palette? No worries; we're here to help you create a card and gift table that really pops at your reception. Don't forget to display some of your engagement photos on the gift table in a cute frame like this Blessed Picture Frame.
Tips for Gift Table Success:
- Set your gift table and card box up where it is visible from the entrance and not too close to the exit. Depending on the visibility of the doors within your venue, you may even elect to place the table right inside the reception doors rather than outside. A popular choice is near the escort table or guest book, if you have an attendant. Your venue will dictate some of these choices but being mindful of security needs, even if you think nothing could ever happen at your wedding, is a smart move. This DIY Jewel Tone Wedding Guest Book Table also makes a great wedding gift table.
- It’s unlikely to happen and unpleasant to think about but occasionally, weddings do get crashed and uninvited guests or staff members do steal gifts/cards. Take this into consideration when planning the placement of your gift table and card box.
- It’s becoming more and more common for guests to buy gifts off an online registry and have them shipped directly to the couple. {Thank you, technology!} However, a few guests will still bring gifts to the wedding and will need a place to set them. Check out these Tips Toward a Successful Wedding Registry.
- Include a “thank you” sign with banners, pennants, chalkboards, frames, etc. If needed, you can add a “gifts & cards” sign like the one included in this wedding sign set.
- Include a secure box for holding cards. Something short of an armored truck but more than an open basket with a neon sign flashing “these cards contain cash!” Be creative with props that complement your wedding theme; birdcages, lanterns, DIY mailboxes, suitcases, wagons, etc. Use a locked box, something that's difficult to reach inside of or awkward to carry away. There are many ways you can make your card box unique. This DIY Geometric Wedding Card Mailbox makes a sturdy and secure card box. Also check out this Gold Sphere Wedding Card Box made with floral and greenery!
- Ask someone you trust (perhaps your wedding planner or personal attendant) to periodically check on the table and cards throughout the reception.
- If you are looking for a traditional wedding card box and aren't too worried about wedding theft, check out this Simple Card Box with Gold Trim and White with Silver Glitter Lid Card Box!
- Consider buying wedding insurance that covers stolen gifts.
Note: If the unthinkable does occur and you become a victim of wedding theft, you may wish to send a note or email to wedding guests alerting them. In lieu of thank you notes for gifts and cards that may have been left at the wedding, a simple note thanking all guests for their attendance and support is appropriate. You could also choose to cross reference your guest book and online gifts received with those you know attended and only send this note to those who you cannot thank for a specific gift.
Are you planning a large wedding reception in a high-traffic, urban venue? If so, you may toss around the idea of hiring security. Chances are the venue regularly works with security firms and can make recommendations to keep you, your gifts and guests safe for the night.
Speaking of tossing things, will it be rice or something more creative at your wedding? Get ready to smile, a lot. You're two months out from your wedding day and we’re ready to plan photo booths and a bachelorette bash. Ready or not, wedding day - here she comes!
See more tips for every phase of your planning process in our Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Guide.
Article written by: Melissa Collier
