Raise a glass and get ready to say “I Do” to the latest trend in wedding guest books: cork guest books! If you’re planning a wine-themed wedding, or you’re looking for a unique alternative to the same standard book, cork guest book is a must-have. In this blog post, we’ll show you what makes this cork guest book popular and how to set your up. We’ll also tell you how to incorporate one into your special day so you can get started now.
What Is a Cork Guest Book?
Cork guest books are a signature holder for a wedding or special event, made exclusively of corks. The corks are lined up to form a shape or a design, like a heart or circle, onto which guests sign their names.
It is referred to as an alternative to a traditional book, which is what is typically found with pages and signatures throughout. Instead of signing on paper, guests sign onto the cork directly using a permanent marker. So, instead of putting a book on a shelf to collect dust, you’re left with the ultimate result: a unique art piece featuring signatures of your favorite people! You can then display it in your home as a memento of your wedding day.
As you can imagine, popularity of this item is rising for wine-themed weddings since it’s such a thematic touch. In addition to making a nice photo prop at your reception, it will be a conversation piece for guests who haven’t ever seen anything like it.
Examples of Cork Guest Books
I did some digging to find the most beautiful handmade cork guest book items – and they are available at Desert Coastal Studios, where I spotted these examples! Erin, the designer and shop owner, does an amazing job crafting these cork pieces from start to finish – and the reviews speak for themselves.
The cork can be arranged into a heart or a circle; you can also choose a bottle of wine paired with a glass of wine for a charming combination.
This round version can be placed on an easel (not included, but you can get one here or rent from your venue) and set up nearly anywhere in your space – perfect for a vineyard setting!
If you are planning a travel theme wedding, or have guests attending from all over the country, consider a United States map made of corks.
If you prefer an alternate style, you can choose cork as the focal point and have guests sign around the white matting area, like this example. Clever idea!
What Makes It Popular?
It’s different, fun, and unique! Anyone can pick a standard book, but choosing an unconventional style like this makes your guest book stand out. A cork guest book fits seamlessly into a wine-themed wedding, rustic wedding, or traditional style. Best of all, you won’t toss this book onto a shelf, but rather, display it for years to come, making it a functional and enjoyable option.
How to Incorporate It Into Your Wedding
If you plan to use this as an alternative to a traditional guest book, you don’t need to do too many extra steps to make it happen! Here’s how to incorporate a cork guest book into your wedding.
Order
Simply order yours from here. Once it arrives, plan on where it will be set up at your wedding reception. Select a table with enough space for a few guests to sign, and allow plenty of room for it to serve as a focal point at your event.
Tips for Displaying
You may choose to place the cork on an easel, but make sure it’s a heavy-duty one so it doesn’t topple over easily. If you prefer, you may lay the cork flat on the table for signing. Include a few markers. Include several markers on the table so the ink doesn’t run out mid-celebration.
What Type of Markers to Use for Signing Cork
According to their website, these fine point Sharpie retractable permanent markers (NOT ultra-fine point) work best for signing, and you get one in your order. You’ll probably want to have at least three on the table.
To start, ask a special guest at your wedding, or your Maid of Honor or Best Man, to sign first. This will provide an example to guests of how to sign it, encouraging others to step up and add their names to the guest book.
Tips for Preserving
Last but not least, you won’t want those signatures to fade. They likely won’t, but just to be sure, you can coat it with this clear coat spray after the wedding, allow it to dry, and then display your new art piece on the wall.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, a cork guest book is a brilliant idea for your wedding. It makes for a memorable touch that everyone will be talking about, and most of all, it becomes a treasured work of art in your home. If you like this idea, be sure to check out the shop for more cork-related finds you’re sure to love.
What do you think? Are you going to try it out for your wedding? If you do, send us photos of your cork guest book so we can display them in this blog post!
