Creative Ways To Make Wedding Gift Trays

Wedding gift trays are a great way to present a gift to the happy couple on their special day. You can buy them ready-made from online stores like Etsy and Amazon, or you can make your own. If you're feeling creative, you can design and personalise your own tray with the couple's initials, names, or a meaningful message. You can also fill the tray with treats, trinkets, or other gifts to make it even more special.

Choosing a material for your tray

The material you choose for your wedding gift tray will depend on a few factors, including the purpose of the tray, your budget, and the desired look and feel. Here are some popular options to consider:

Wood:

Wooden trays are a popular choice for wedding gift trays as they offer a rustic, natural look. They can be made from a variety of woods, including pine, olive wood, walnut, and bamboo. Wood trays are often engraved or personalized with names, dates, or other decorative elements. They can also be stained or painted to match your wedding colours or theme. Wooden trays are generally durable and long-lasting, making them a practical choice.

Metal:

Metal trays, such as those made from brass, gold-tone, or silver-tone metals, offer a more elegant and luxurious look. Metal trays are often used for decorative purposes and can be engraved or embossed with intricate designs. They are also durable and long-lasting but may be more expensive than other options.

Plastic:

Plastic trays are a more affordable option and can still look elegant, especially when finished with a silver or gold coating. They are lightweight and easy to transport, making them a good choice for weddings. However, they may not be as durable as wood or metal trays.

Glass:

Glass trays offer a sleek and modern look, and they can be engraved or etched with designs or personal messages. They are easy to clean and maintain, but they may be more fragile than other materials.

MDF:

Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is an engineered wood product that is often used for crafting and decorative purposes. MDF trays are usually inexpensive and can be painted, decorated, or left plain. They are a good option for those who want to personalise their trays with decoupage, paint, or other decorative techniques.

Fabric:

Fabric trays, such as those made from velvet or linen, offer a soft and luxurious look and feel. They are often used for presenting or storing gifts and can be personalised with embroidery or other decorative elements. Fabric trays are typically not suitable for serving food or drinks.

Selecting a shape and size

When selecting a shape and size for your wedding gift tray, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, decide what you plan to place on the tray. This will help you determine the size and shape that will best accommodate your items. For example, if you plan to include a variety of items such as gifts, sweets, or decorative items, a larger tray with a rectangular or oval shape might be ideal. Rectangular trays are a popular choice for wedding gift trays as they offer ample space and a classic look.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more compact option, consider a square tray. Square trays are often available in various sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs. Round trays are another option, perfect for displaying items in a more creative way, especially if you plan to include circular items such as rings or other jewellery.

If you're looking for something unique, consider a tray with an unusual shape, such as a hexagon. These trays can add a modern touch to your wedding decor and are perfect for those who want to break away from traditional shapes. Another factor to consider is the material of the tray. Wooden trays are a popular choice for weddings as they offer a natural and elegant look.

You can also find trays made of materials like metal, plastic, or acrylic, each offering a distinct style and durability. Ultimately, the shape and size of your wedding gift tray depend on your personal preferences and the items you plan to display. Choose a shape that complements your wedding theme and a size that comfortably fits your selected items, creating a beautiful and functional display.

Adding a personal touch

• Engraving: Consider engraving the tray with the couple's names, their wedding date, or a meaningful quote or message. This adds a unique and elegant touch to the tray, making it a cherished keepsake.
• Personalized message: If the tray has a glass or acrylic surface, you can personalize it with a custom photo or message. This could be a favourite photo of the couple or a heartfelt message wishing them a happy married life.
• Customization: Opt for a customized tray that reflects the couple's interests or hobbies. For example, if they love cooking, you could gift a personalized charcuterie board or a serving tray with a unique design.
• Monogram: A monogrammed tray is a classic choice for a wedding gift. You can have the couple's initials or names monogrammed onto the tray, making it distinctly theirs. This works well with acrylic, wood, or marble trays.
• Theme: If the couple has a specific wedding theme, you can incorporate that into the tray design. For instance, if they're having a rustic-themed wedding, a wooden tray with a rustic finish would fit right in.
• Colours: Use the couple's wedding colours as inspiration for the tray's colour scheme. This could be in the form of a coloured tray, or you could add decorative elements in their chosen colours.
• Size and shape: Consider a tray with a unique shape or size that suits the couple's needs. For example, a small, round tray for a bedside table or a large, rectangular tray for serving food.
• Add-ons: Enhance the gift tray with additional personalized items. For instance, you could include custom coasters, a set of personalized mugs, or a decorative plate that complements the tray.
• Handmade: Opt for a handmade tray to give it a truly unique and one-of-a-kind feel. You can even try making it yourself if you're crafty!
• Gift wrapping: Present the tray in a beautiful, customized gift box or wrapping. You can add a ribbon with their names or a tag with a special message to make it extra special.

Remember, when adding a personal touch, think about the couple's style, interests, and what would make the gift meaningful to them. By incorporating these elements, you'll create a wedding gift tray that the couple will cherish for years to come.

Using the tray for food presentation

Wedding trays can be used for food presentation in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

Using decorative trays for food presentation:

Firstly, decorative trays can be used as elegant centrepieces for a wedding table. For example, a mirrored tray with a gold finish can be used to display a collection of candles, flowers, or other decorative items. The tray itself becomes a design feature, adding a touch of luxury to the table setting.

Using serving trays for food presentation:

Serving trays are essential for presenting food to guests during the wedding reception. A simple wooden serving tray with handles can be used to offer guests canapes, small bites, or even cupcakes. For a more elegant touch, consider a marble or marble-effect serving tray, which can be used to present charcuterie, cheeses, or other appetisers.

Using personalised trays for food presentation:

Personalised trays can be used to add a unique touch to your wedding food presentation. For example, you could have a tray engraved with the couple's initials or a meaningful date. These trays can be used during the wedding to present food to guests, and they also make great keepsakes after the event.

Using tiered trays for food presentation:

Tiered trays are a great way to add height and visual interest to your food presentation. They can be used to create a visually appealing display of treats, such as cupcakes, macarons, or small desserts. Tiered trays can also be used to present a variety of appetisers or finger foods, such as a selection of charcuterie, dips, and crudites.

Using disposable trays for food presentation:

Disposable paper or palm leaf trays are a practical option for wedding food presentation, especially for outdoor weddings or more casual events. These trays can be used to serve main courses or lighter dishes, and they can be easily disposed of or recycled after use, reducing the amount of post-wedding clean-up required.

Care and maintenance of the tray

To ensure your wedding gift tray stays in pristine condition, follow these care and maintenance instructions:

Cleaning:

• For everyday care, wipe the tray with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning agents as they may damage the finish.
• For more thorough cleaning, especially after spills, use a mild detergent diluted in water. Soak a soft cloth in the solution and gently wipe down the tray, rinsing and wringing out the cloth as needed.
• Ensure the tray is thoroughly dried with a soft, absorbent cloth or towel after cleaning to prevent water spots or damage.

Storage:

• Store your tray in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Excessive heat or sunlight can cause the tray to warp or fade over time.
• If stacking trays, place a soft cloth or padding between them to prevent scratches or damage.
• Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the tray to maintain its shape and structure.

Maintenance:

• To maintain the tray's finish, you may wish to polish it occasionally. Use a small amount of furniture polish or natural oil, such as linseed oil, and apply it with a soft cloth in the direction of the grain.
• If your tray has handles, pay special attention to cleaning and polishing them. Handles are often made of metal, which may require different care instructions than the tray itself.
• For metal trays, you may need to use specific metal polishes or cleaners to maintain their shine and prevent tarnishing. Ensure any products you use are suitable for the type of metal.
• If your tray has a decorative finish or painting, take care not to use any abrasive materials or chemicals that could damage or remove the decoration.

By following these care and maintenance instructions, your wedding gift tray will remain in excellent condition and continue to bring joy to the happy couple.

Frequently asked questions