Creating A Wedding Fund Shadow Box: A Step-By-Step Guide

A wedding fund shadow box is a great way to save money for your big day. You can buy one online or make one yourself. If you're making one yourself, you'll need to get inspired, start with a theme, list your items, choose a layout, purchase or make your shadow box container, arrange the items, and finalize and secure your design. You can include anything from invitations and save-the-dates to decorative fillers like lace. You can also add in wedding dresses, preserved bouquets, and photos.

Choosing a sealed box to protect items

When choosing a sealed box to protect your wedding fund, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to select a box made of high-quality materials that will keep your items safe. Look for options made from durable wood, plexiglass, or plastic. The box should have a secure lid or closure to ensure that your items cannot be easily accessed or removed. Additionally, consider the size of the box. It should be large enough to accommodate your wedding fund, whether it is in the form of cash, cards, or cheques. You may also want to include mementos and souvenirs, so choose a box with some extra space.

Another factor to consider is the display and decoration of the box. You may want to choose a box with a clear front, such as plexiglass or glass, so that you can see your wedding fund growing. This type of box can also be used to display mementos, such as dried flowers or wine corks, and can be easily personalised with vinyl lettering or paint. If you prefer a more discreet option, an opaque box made of wood or plastic will keep your items hidden from view.

If you plan to display your wedding fund box, consider choosing one with a hook or easel so that it can be hung on a wall. Alternatively, look for a box with a flat base that can be placed on a tabletop, bookshelf, or mantel. For added security, you may want to select a box with a lock, especially if you plan to keep it in a public area.

Finally, think about the long-term storage of your wedding fund box. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or high humidity, consider using a storage bin with a seal to protect your items from moisture damage. You can also include silica gel packets or anti-humidity bags inside the box to absorb any excess moisture.

Using decorative fillers like lace

Choosing the Right Lace

Select a piece of lace that holds significant meaning to you. It could be a delicate fabric from your bridal veil, a treasured piece of your wedding gown, or any other lace element from your special day. Ensure that the lace is intricate and detailed, elegantly representing the beauty of your wedding ceremony.

Finding the Perfect Shadow Box

Look for a shadow box that complements your chosen lace in terms of size and color. Consider a deep-set shadow box if you want to include other dimensional items, such as flowers or invitations. You can find shadow boxes at craft stores or framing shops.

Arranging the Lace

Lay the shadow box flat and carefully arrange the lace inside. You can pin the lace in place or use fabric-safe adhesive to secure it, ensuring it won't shift over time. If desired, include a small note card with details like your wedding date or a meaningful quote on the back of the box.

Adding Extra Touches

Consider incorporating other wedding mementos alongside the lace. For example, you could add your dried wedding bouquet, a photo of you holding the lace on your wedding day, or a copy of your wedding invitation. Get creative and choose items that complement the lace and enhance the overall composition of the shadow box.

Finalizing Your Creation

Once you're happy with the arrangement, seal your shadow box and prepare to display it. Choose a prominent spot in your home, such as a mantelpiece or a wall, where you can admire your creation and relive the precious memories of your wedding day.

Remember, this project is about encapsulating the essence of your joyous occasion. The lace you choose and the way you arrange it will help tell the story of your love and serve as a timeless reminder of your special day.

Adding photos and invitations

Choosing your photos

Select photos that capture the happiest moments of your wedding day. You can include individual, couple, or group shots, and even photos with your wedding guests. Consider printing and adding photos of your seating chart or place cards to your shadow box as well. If you're feeling creative, you can also use layered paper cutouts of your photos, lit with remote-controlled tea lights, to add a magical touch.

Preparing your invitations

There are several ways to include your wedding invitations in the shadow box. You can simply place them inside, or you can get them framed before adding them to the box. Another idea is to have your guests sign their invitations, creating a unique display that you'll treasure forever. If you want to get really creative, you can even use a vintage postcard of your wedding venue as a special touch.

Arranging your items

When it comes to arranging your photos and invitations in the shadow box, you can get as creative as you like. You can choose to have a focal point, such as a large photo or your framed invitation, and arrange the other items around it. You can also hang some items, place some on the interior side walls, and rest others on the bottom of the box to create a unique and dimensional display. Play around with different arrangements until you find one that you love.

Finalizing your design

Once you're happy with the arrangement, it's time to secure your items in place. Try to use temporary adhesives wherever possible, and be sure to let the glue dry completely before displaying your wedding fund shadow box.

Your wedding fund shadow box will be a beautiful display of your cherished memories, and by including photos and invitations, you'll be able to relive the magic of your wedding day whenever you glance at it.

Displaying the box on a wall

When preparing to hang your box, it is important to consider the display options the box offers. For example, a shadow box designed for display on a mantle will have a picture frame backing, which may give you the option to hang it from the wall. You can also purchase or make your own shadow box with a hook or easel in the back, specifically designed for hanging.

If you are crafting your own box, you can add a hook or use an adhesive to attach the box to the wall. Ensure that any glue or sticky tack is completely dry before hanging the box.

When choosing a location to hang your wedding fund shadow box, consider displaying it on a wall in your living room, bedroom, or hallway, where it can be easily seen and admired. You may also want to group it with other decorative items or artwork to create a gallery wall.

By following these steps, you can proudly display your wedding fund shadow box on the wall, preserving your special memories for years to come.

Using temporary adhesives

When creating a wedding shadow box, it is recommended to use temporary adhesives where possible. This is because you may want to rearrange items or add new ones in the future.

There are a variety of temporary adhesives that can be used for this purpose, such as sticky tack or glue dots. These can be purchased at most craft stores. When using these adhesives, it is important to use only a small amount to avoid damaging your items or the shadow box itself.

If you are using glue, it is recommended to use a low-temperature hot glue gun. This will allow you to easily remove the items from the shadow box if needed without causing any damage. Be sure to let the glue dry completely before handling or displaying your shadow box.

Another option for attaching items to your shadow box is to use clear fishing line or thread. This can be a more delicate option that still securely holds your items in place. Simply attach the line or thread to your item and then secure it to the back of the shadow box or another item in the box. This method can be useful for hanging items or creating a floating effect.

When using temporary adhesives, it is important to handle your items with care. Avoid pulling or tugging on the items, as this may cause the adhesive to detach. Instead, gently lift and adjust as needed until you are happy with the placement.

Frequently asked questions