Creating A Custom Wine Box For Your Wedding

The wine box ceremony is a modern wedding ritual that celebrates a couple's love on their wedding day and in the future. It involves sealing a bottle of wine in a box, to be opened on a future anniversary, along with love letters, notes, and other meaningful items. The wine box is usually made of wood and can be personalised or DIY-ed. This non-religious ceremony is a unique way to commemorate a couple's future together and adds a personal touch to the wedding.

Selecting the right type of wood

Durability and Protection

Wood wine boxes are designed to provide excellent protection for wine bottles during storage and transport. Look for a box constructed with durable materials that can shield the bottle from external pressures, impacts, and potential damage. This will ensure the wine remains intact and the box stays in good condition over time.

Aromatic Considerations

When selecting the type of wood, consider the aromatic qualities of the material. Wine can absorb aromas through the cork, which may alter its flavour during prolonged storage. Opt for a wood with low aromatic properties, such as aspen, to minimise the risk of the wine taking on unintended flavours.

Customisation and Engraving

If you plan to customise or engrave your wine box, choose a wood that offers a clean substrate for engraving. Baltic Birch plywood, for example, is a premium option used by cabinet makers that provides a smooth surface for intricate designs. Additionally, consider the natural colour and grain of the wood to ensure it complements your desired engraving or branding.

Size and Bottle Accommodation

Wine boxes can be customised to accommodate various bottle sizes, from single-bottle boxes to larger sets. Consider the size and shape of the wine bottle you plan to use and select a wood box that will securely fit the bottle. This is especially important if you plan to transport the wine box or store it for an extended period.

Sustainability and Source

If sustainability is important to you, look for wood sources that are FSC-certified, ensuring responsible forestry practices. Additionally, consider the origin of the wood and opt for locally sourced options whenever possible to support local businesses and reduce the carbon footprint of your wine box.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the right type of wood for your wedding wine box, ensuring it not only meets your aesthetic and functional needs but also stands the test of time as a cherished memento of your special day.

Choosing the wine

Seasonality

Traditionally, red wines such as syrah or cabernet sauvignon are associated with fall or winter nuptials, while white wines like Sancerre or pinot gris are synonymous with spring or summer weddings. However, it is more important that the type of wine you select fits with your menu and your own personal preferences.

Pairing with food

When it comes to pairing wine with food, it is recommended to choose versatile wines that can accompany a variety of dishes. Well-balanced, trustworthy wines will ensure your guests enjoy their meals and give you one less headache.

For red wines, pinot noir and Gamay (Beaujolais) are versatile options. For white wines, albarino from Spain and chenin blanc from South Africa are good choices that offer great value for money.

If you are serving champagne, it is best paired with appetisers like sushi, cured meats or fried foods rather than dessert, as most champagnes are dry and will not complement the sugary flavours of wedding cakes. For dessert, a sweeter wine like riesling is a better option.

Quantity

A standard wine bottle contains 25 ounces, which is roughly four to five servings of wine. Wedding planners suggest assuming that each adult guest will drink approximately one glass of wine every hour. Therefore, for a three to five-hour wedding reception, you can estimate that each guest will consume around three to five glasses of wine.

Variety

It is recommended to offer your guests at least one red wine and one white wine. You can also include a sparkling wine or champagne for toasts.

Some popular options for white wines include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Riesling. For red wines, popular choices are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Shiraz/Syrah, Zinfandel, Grenache, and Sangiovese.

If you are serving champagne, some options to consider are Blanc de Noir, Blanc de Blanc, Metodo Classico, Prosecco, Cava, and Sparkling Rosé.

Budget

The cost of wine can vary widely, starting from under $10 per bottle. You can find quality wines in the $20-$30 range. The price of a bottle of wine is influenced by factors such as the type of grape, sourcing, and corkage.

When creating your wedding alcohol budget, a general guideline is to allocate about 15% of your overall reception budget to wine and champagne.

Adding personal touches

Engravings and Inscriptions

Engrave the inside of the box's lid with a personalised message. Song lyrics, poems, quotes, toasts, and words of wisdom are all great options. You could also include the date of your wedding, the date you plan to open the box, or a phrase that holds a special meaning for you and your partner. If you don't want to engrave the box itself, you could add a nameplate with your names and wedding date.

Photos

Feature your wedding or engagement photo on the front of the box, or add a photo to the back. This is a wonderful way to capture a moment in time and will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Love Letters

Write love letters to each other in the weeks leading up to the wedding. Include what you love most about each other, your thoughts as the wedding date approaches, and what you're looking forward to in the future. Seal the envelopes and place them in the box, to be read when you open it years later.

Vows and Predictions

Add a copy of your wedding vows to the box, so you can relive that special moment when you open the box. You could also include predictions about your future together, written by yourselves or your friends and family.

Special Items

In addition to the bottle of wine, you can include other special items in your wine box. Ideas include wine glasses, a bottle opener, pictures, videos, small mementos, a local newspaper front page, or photos from the early days of your relationship.

Remember, the wine box is a celebration of your love and your future together. By adding these personal touches, you'll create a one-of-a-kind keepsake that you'll cherish for anniversaries to come.

Building the box

Building a wine box for a wedding requires basic materials and tools, so anyone with beginner woodworking skills can make one. Here is a step-by-step guide:

First, you need to build the frame of the wine box. Use 1x4 lumber and cut the components to the desired size. The dimensions of the box can vary depending on the size of the wine bottle and any other items you plan to include in the box.

Fitting the faces to the box

After assembling the frame, attach the faces to complete the box. Apply wood glue to the joints and use brad nails to secure the pieces together. Make sure the edges are flush and check if the corners are square.

Building the lid

For the lid, you can use 1x4 lumber for the top and 1x2s for the trims. Cut the trims at a 45-degree angle at both ends. Add glue to the joints and attach the trims to the top, using brad nails to lock them in place.

Attaching the hinges and latch

Drill pilot holes and attach the hinges and latch to the wine box using screws. Center the latch on the lid and secure it with screws. Then, attach the other component of the latch to the frame of the wine box.

Finishing touches

Sand the box to smooth out any rough edges and apply a finish such as stain, paint, or lacquer to give it a rustic or polished look. You can also add personal touches, such as engraving or inscriptions, to make it more special.

Assembling the box

Finally, assemble the box by attaching the lid to the frame using the hinges. You can now place your chosen bottle of wine, love letters, and any other mementos inside the box.

Remember to choose a wine that will age well, especially if you plan to open the box on a future anniversary. Red wines tend to age better than white wines, but you can consult a wine expert for specific recommendations.

Sealing the box

Choose a sealing method:

• You can use a hammer and nails to seal the box shut. This method creates a tight seal and adds a rustic look to the box. However, hammering during the ceremony can be time-consuming and noisy.
• Alternatively, choose a box with a latch and a lock. This option allows for a quicker sealing process during the ceremony, as you can simply close the lid and lock it with a key.
• If you prefer a simpler approach, you can use a box with a sliding cover or a clasp that can be easily closed without any additional tools.

Prepare the box:

• Before the ceremony, ensure that the box is properly assembled and sturdy. Follow woodworking plans or seek a professional's help if you're making the box yourself.
• Decorate or personalise the box to make it more special. You can add inscriptions, engravings, or paint it to match your wedding theme.
• Consider adding hinges to the box, especially if you plan to open it again in the future. This will make it easier to access the contents without damaging the box.

Finalise the sealing:

• During the ceremony, after placing the wine bottle, letters, and other keepsakes inside, it's time to seal the deal. Close the lid securely and use your chosen method to ensure the box is tightly shut.
• If using nails, you can take turns hammering them into the box, adding a symbolic gesture to the ceremony.
• If using a latch and lock, have the key ready and lock the box together, symbolising the unity of your love.
• For boxes with simpler closures, slide the cover closed or fasten the clasp, perhaps with a meaningful or decorative key that you can keep as a memento.

Remember, the sealing of the box is a significant moment in the wine box ceremony, so take your time and make it a memorable part of your wedding day.

Frequently asked questions