Creating Personalized Scroll Wedding Programs: A Step-By-Step Guide

Scroll wedding programs are a unique and elegant way to share your wedding details with your guests. These programs are typically made of high-quality paper, printed with your wedding information, hand-rolled, and tied with twine or ribbon. The process of creating scroll wedding programs involves choosing the right paper, such as cardstock or watercolour paper, and deciding on a simple yet elegant design. The paper is then rolled by hand or with tools, or folded into a compact, scroll-like shape. These scrolls can be adorned with decorative elements like ribbons, charms, or wax stamps. They are usually placed in a basket near the entrance, inviting guests to take one as they find their seats.

Choose high-quality paper or cardstock for sturdiness

When creating scroll wedding programs, it's important to choose high-quality paper or cardstock for sturdiness. This ensures that your programs will hold their shape when rolled or folded and give them a more elegant look and feel. Opting for heavy-weight papers, such as cardstock or watercolour paper, will make your programs more durable and help them withstand handling by your guests.

The paper you choose should be able to showcase the design and text of your programs clearly and beautifully. It should also be easy to work with, allowing you to roll or fold it smoothly and securely. Selecting a high-quality paper will not only make the assembly process easier but will also enhance the overall presentation of your scroll wedding programs.

Additionally, the right paper choice will ensure that your programs remain in good condition, even after being placed in a basket for guests to pick up as they arrive at your wedding. This way, you can be confident that your carefully crafted programs will withstand the excitement and hustle of your special day.

When selecting the paper, consider the colour that best complements your wedding theme. You can opt for traditional shades like white or cream, or choose a coloured paper that matches your wedding palette. This way, you can add a subtle pop of colour, even when the scrolls are rolled and waiting to be picked up by your guests.

In summary, choosing high-quality paper or cardstock for your scroll wedding programs will not only ensure sturdiness but will also elevate the overall aesthetic of your wedding stationery. It will make a lasting impression on your guests and serve as a memorable keepsake of your special day.

Decide on the design and layout, keeping it simple and elegant

When it comes to the design and layout of your scroll wedding programs, simplicity and elegance are key. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

Choose a Classic Colour Palette

Opt for a neutral or pastel colour palette for your scroll wedding programs. Cream, beige, white, and shades of brown and green are all elegant choices that will create a timeless look. You can also incorporate your wedding colours for a pop of colour, such as a coloured ribbon or a coloured border.

Focus on Legibility

While you want your scroll wedding programs to be aesthetically pleasing, it's important that your guests can easily read the information. Choose a legible font style, size, and colour. Traditional typefaces and dainty script fonts are popular choices for wedding programs. Play around with different font combinations to find the perfect match for your design.

Include Essential Information

The purpose of wedding programs is to provide guests with key information about the ceremony. Include details such as the date, names of the couple and wedding party, songs, and the order of events. You can also add a personal touch by including a thank-you note to your guests or a short description of any cultural traditions that will be incorporated into the ceremony.

Add Decorative Elements

Decorative elements such as ribbons, charms, and wax seals can enhance the elegance of your scroll wedding programs. A piece of ribbon or twine tied around the middle of the scroll or attached to the ends in a bow will also help keep the scroll securely rolled. For a rustic or vintage feel, consider using burlap or lace as a wrapping for the scroll.

Keep the Layout Balanced

When laying out the content of your scroll wedding programs, aim for a balanced and uncluttered design. Leave enough white space to ensure the text is easy to read, and avoid overcrowding the scroll with too much information or overly large graphics.

Customise with Graphics

Incorporate wedding-themed graphics such as rings, doves, or flowers to add visual interest to your scroll wedding programs. You can also upload images from your pre-nuptial shoot to give your scrolls a personal touch. Play around with different background options, such as solid colours, gradients, or textures, to create a unique and elegant design.

Include details like the date, location, order of events, and names of the wedding party

When creating scroll wedding programs, it's important to include key details such as the date, location, order of events, and names of the wedding party. Here are some tips and suggestions for including these important elements:

Date, Location, and Time

Include the wedding date and time with the day of the week, date, and year. For example, "Saturday, the Seventh of July, 2024". If you have a wedding with multiple events spanning several days, you may want to create different scrolls for each event, or include all relevant dates and times on a single scroll. As for the location, be sure to include the name and address of the venue, as well as any relevant details such as floor or room numbers.

Order of Events

Outline the sequence of events for the wedding ceremony, including any unique traditions or rituals you plan to incorporate. You can also include the titles of readings and songs to give guests a better understanding of the flow of the ceremony. If you have a separate reception at a different location, you may want to include those details as well.

Names of the Wedding Party

List the names of the wedding party, including the couple getting married, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers, and any other participants. You can also include the names of the parents, clergy, readers, and musicians involved in the ceremony. This section can be as detailed or concise as you prefer, but it's a great way to honour and recognise those who are special to you on your big day.

Additional Details

While the above details are essential, you can also include other information to make your scroll wedding programs more informative and personalised. Consider adding thank-yous, dedications, or remembrances to honour loved ones who couldn't be there. You can also mention any specific dress codes or themes, especially if you're encouraging guests to dress in a certain style or colour palette. Finally, don't forget to proofread your scroll programs to ensure all the information is accurate and up-to-date before printing and rolling them into shape!

Roll or fold the paper by hand or with tools, ensuring the design stays centred

When it comes to rolling or folding your scroll wedding programs, you have the option to do it by hand or with tools. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your design stays centred:

Rolling by Hand:

• Start by gently rolling one end of the invitation. It's important to do this slowly and carefully to ensure the design stays centred.
• Continue rolling the paper until it is tightly rolled, maintaining the centred position of the design and text.
• Check that the design is straight and centred as you roll.

Folding by Hand:

• For a folded scroll, begin by folding the paper in half lengthwise. This will create a clear centre line for your design.
• Fold the bottom edge up to meet the top edge, forming a triangle shape.
• Keep the design centred as you fold.
• Fold the triangle in half, and continue folding until the entire paper is folded into a compact, scroll-like shape.

Using Tools:

If you prefer, you can use a rolling tool or a scroll invitation kit to help you roll or fold your paper. These tools can make the process easier and ensure a neater finish.

Remember, whether you're rolling or folding, it's important to choose high-quality paper or cardstock that will hold its shape. Heavyweight papers, such as cardstock or watercolour paper, are ideal for this purpose.

Once you've rolled or folded your scroll wedding programs, you can secure them with a ribbon, twine, or other decorative elements.

Tie with a ribbon or twine, adding charms or beads for extra elegance

Tying your scroll wedding programs with a ribbon or twine is a great way to add a decorative touch and keep the scroll secure. Here are some tips and ideas to help you achieve an elegant finish:

Choosing the Right Material

Select a ribbon or twine that complements your wedding colour palette and theme. Consider the thickness and texture of the material—you'll want something that is easy to tie and secure. Ribbons can be made from materials such as silk, cotton, or burlap, while twine offers a more rustic look.

Measuring and Cutting

Measure the length of your scroll and add a few extra inches to ensure you have enough material to tie a knot or bow. If you're wrapping the scroll like a parcel, measure both dimensions, add them together, then double that length. You can also use string or cotton thread to tie around the scroll first, then measure and cut your chosen ribbon or twine to the correct length.

Tying and Securing

There are several ways to tie your ribbon or twine. You can wrap it once around the centre of the scroll and tie a knot or bow, or you can wrap it around both ways, like a parcel. Play around with different knots and bows to see what looks best. You can also add a drop of glue to secure the knot and ensure it doesn't come undone.

Adding Charms and Beads

To add extra elegance and a unique touch, consider attaching charms or beads to the ribbon or twine. You can find a variety of charms and beads at craft stores, or you could use small items with sentimental value. Charms with jump rings are easy to add, and you can also slide beads onto the ribbon or twine before tying it. Consider the overall weight of the charms and beads, especially if your scroll programs will be placed in a basket for guests to take.

Final Touches

Once you've tied your ribbon or twine and added any charms or beads, take a step back and review your work. Ensure the ribbon is tied securely and any knots or bows are neat and centred. If needed, trim any loose ends for a clean finish. Your scroll wedding programs are now ready to be placed in a basket near the entrance of your ceremony, where guests can take one as they find their seats!

Frequently asked questions