Creating A Wedding Order Of Service: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding order of service is a booklet that outlines the schedule of a wedding ceremony. It is a useful way to inform guests about the timeline of the wedding and can also be personalised to include details about the couple, bridal party, and music. The order of service can be designed to match the wedding theme and colour scheme, and can be a lovely keepsake for guests. Whether you're having a religious or civil ceremony, a wedding order of service is a great way to guide your guests through the celebration.

Choosing a format: booklet, flat or folded

When it comes to choosing a format for your wedding order of service, there are three main options: a booklet, a flat or folded design. Each has its own advantages and can be tailored to suit your wedding style and budget.

Booklet

A booklet format is a popular choice for wedding orders of service, offering a neat and comprehensive way to present the ceremony itinerary. Booklets typically have multiple pages, providing ample space for details such as the order of events, hymns, readings, and even photos. They are usually bound with staples or saddle-stitched, creating a durable keepsake for your guests.

Flat

A flat order of service is an elegant and simple option, often featuring luxury paper and finishes. This format may be preferable if you want to include less information or if you're aiming for a minimalist aesthetic. Flat orders of service can be beautifully designed and are ideal for weddings where space for placing them may be limited.

Folded

The folded option offers a good balance between the booklet and flat formats. With a folded design, you have the flexibility to create a detailed wedding itinerary or keep it concise, depending on your preferences. Folded orders of service are typically available in A5 or A4 sizes, and you can even add a thicker cover for a premium feel.

No matter which format you choose, you can personalise it to match your wedding theme and colours. Whether you opt for a booklet, flat, or folded design, your order of service will be a cherished memento for your guests, guiding them through your special day.

Deciding on the number of pages

The number of pages in your wedding order of service is important to consider. It will depend on how much information you want to include, as well as how detailed you want the design to be.

A simple option is to go for a folded A4 or A5 card, which provides a front cover, back cover, and two inside pages. This is a cost-effective and elegant choice, and can be easily distributed to guests as they enter the venue.

However, if you want to include more details, photos, or create a special keepsake, a multi-page booklet might be a better option. These can range from 4 to 16 pages, with each additional page providing more space for creative and personal touches. You can include lyrics to hymns, readings, and even pictures of the happy couple.

Remember that the number of pages should be a multiple of 4 due to the printing and binding process. Also, consider the readability of your chosen font at the desired size, especially if you are including a lot of text. You want to ensure your guests can easily follow along with the ceremony.

When deciding on the number of pages, it's a good idea to plan out the content first. This will help you determine how much space you need and ensure that the most important parts of the ceremony stand out. It's also crucial to check the details with the person conducting the service before finalising your order of service.

Selecting a paper type and finish

Paper Type

• Uncoated Paper: This is a traditional option that gives a classic and elegant look to your order of service. It is often used for funeral orders of service but can also be used for weddings. Uncoated paper is usually available in weights ranging from 120gsm to 350gsm.
• Coated Paper: Coated paper has a smooth and slightly shiny finish. It is often used for more modern or chic order of service designs.
• Textured Paper: Textured paper, such as that with a fine grain or subtle texture, can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your order of service. It is a great choice for premium or luxury orders of service.

Paper Finish

• Matte Finish: A matte finish is a flat and non-reflective finish that gives a classic and elegant look to your order of service.
• Gloss Finish: A gloss finish is a shiny and reflective finish that can make your order of service stand out. It is often used for modern or contemporary designs.
• Satin Finish: A satin finish is somewhere between a matte and gloss finish. It has a slight sheen that gives a soft and elegant look to your order of service.

When selecting a paper type and finish, it is important to consider the overall design and style of your order of service, as well as your budget. If you are creating a more traditional or elegant order of service, uncoated paper with a matte finish may be a better option. For a more modern or chic look, coated paper with a gloss finish could be a good choice. Textured paper with a satin finish can also add a touch of elegance to your order of service.

Adding personal touches

Customise the Design

Add a personal touch by choosing a design that reflects your style and colour scheme. You can opt for elegant and classic designs, or go for something more modern and chic. If you're having a religious ceremony, you can include religious motifs or illustrations. Alternatively, you could commission a bespoke illustration of you and your partner in your wedding outfits to feature on the front page.

Include Photos

Incorporate photos of you and your spouse, from childhood to adulthood, to adorn your order of service. This is a heartwarming way to showcase your journey as a couple. You can also include photos of the bridal party, with a fun fact or short biography to introduce them to your guests.

Add a Monogram or Illustration

Create a custom monogram or illustration, such as a couple portrait stamp, to use throughout your wedding stationery, including the order of service. This adds a unique and consistent touch to all your wedding items.

Share Your Love Story

If you're feeling creative, write a brief story or timeline of your relationship to include in the order of service. You could even make this into a custom colouring book for younger guests! This is a wonderful way to involve your guests in celebrating your love story.

Incorporate Music

Music is a powerful way to evoke emotions and create a personalised atmosphere. Include the names and artists of the songs played during key moments, such as your entrance, signing of the register, and exit. You could even provide the lyrics to any hymns or songs that guests are invited to sing along to.

Add Special Touches

• Vows and Readings: Include the full text of your vows and any readings, especially if they hold a special meaning for you.
• Quotes: Start or end the order of service with a favourite quote about love.
• Lyrics: If you're including hymns or songs with guest participation, consider adding the lyrics so everyone can join in.
• Fun Facts: Include light-hearted or humorous facts about you as a couple to delight your guests.

Remember, your wedding order of service is a wonderful opportunity to express yourself and share your love story with your guests. Get creative and have fun with it!

Checking and proofreading

Reviewing and Proofreading:

• Before finalising your order of service, it is essential to review and proofread it carefully. Ask a friend or family member who is good with words to proofread it for you. A fresh pair of eyes can help catch any typos or errors you may have missed.
• Pay close attention to spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Check that all names, titles, and roles are spelled correctly.
• Double-check the accuracy of times, dates, and locations mentioned in the order of service. Ensure that the sequence of events is correct and aligns with the finalised ceremony details.
• If you are including hymns, readings, or quotes, verify their accuracy and provide proper attributions.
• If you are working with a tight budget or want your stationery to match, consider ordering in bulk. This can include items such as wedding invitations, place cards, and the order of service, which can be more cost-effective than ordering separately.
• If you plan to include bespoke illustrations, letterpress designs, or foil stamping, allow ample time for their creation and any necessary revisions.
• If you are working with a stationer, carefully review their work and provide clear feedback. Ensure you are 100% happy with the final design before approving it for printing.
• Take advantage of free digital proofing services offered by some printing companies. This allows you to download and review a watermarked version of your design before finalising it.
• Consider ordering a printed proof to assess the physical quality and feel of the paper or card stock. This is especially useful if you want to ensure the final product meets your expectations.
• Remember to review and approve any cultural or traditional elements included in your order of service. Ensure that rituals, translations, or explanations are accurate and respectful.
• If you are including personal anecdotes, stories, or quotes, double-check their accuracy and ensure they reflect your vision.
• Check that any photographs or illustrations included in the design are of good quality and correctly placed.
• Verify that the font sizes and styles you have chosen are legible for all guests, including those with visual impairments. Print a sample and review it from different angles and distances to ensure readability.
• If you are working with an officiant, such as a vicar, priest, or registrar, consult them to ensure they are happy with the running order and that all information is correct.
• Finally, allow enough time for any necessary revisions. Proofread and review your order of service multiple times to ensure it is perfect before sending it to print.

Frequently asked questions