Creating Wedding Tent Cards: A Step-By-Step Guide

Tent cards are a great way to personalize your wedding. They can be used to display guests' names, table numbers, and meal choices, making it easier for waiters to identify and serve guests' preferred dishes. You can make your own wedding tent cards by purchasing pre-perforated tent cards with downloadable templates from brands like Avery, or by using online templates from websites like Etsy and WeddingWire. You can also design and print your own tent cards using software like Microsoft Word, but this requires some technical know-how.

Choosing a template

When it comes to choosing a template for your wedding tent cards, there are several options available. Here are some factors to consider:

Pre-Made Templates:

Online platforms such as Etsy, Avery, and Microsoft Word offer a variety of pre-made templates that you can choose from. These templates are often customisable and can be downloaded for a small fee or even for free. Etsy, for example, offers a range of wedding tent card templates with different designs, such as minimalist, floral, and modern styles.

Custom Templates:

If you want something more personalised, you can opt for custom templates. Etsy, for instance, allows you to contact sellers to request custom designs. You can provide your desired specifications, such as colour schemes, fonts, and any additional graphics or text you want to include.

DIY Templates:

For a more hands-on approach, you can create your own templates from scratch using programs like Microsoft Word or Publisher. This gives you complete freedom over the design and layout of your tent cards. You can also utilise free online templates provided by companies like Avery, which offer customisation tools to design your cards.

Printing Services:

If you're looking for convenience, consider using a printing service. Companies like Avery WePrint offer custom printing services where you can upload your own design or use their free templates. This option ensures that you receive professionally printed tent cards without having to worry about printing them yourself.

Paper Stock:

When choosing a template, consider the type of paper stock you will be using. Some printers may not be able to handle thicker card stock, so it's important to check the specifications of your printer or printing service. Additionally, ensure that the template you choose is compatible with the size and orientation of your selected paper stock.

Design and Customisation:

Think about the overall design and customisation options you want for your tent cards. Will you be including graphics, logos, or specific colour schemes? Do you want to include text on both sides of the tent card, or just one? Considering these factors will help you choose a template that best suits your vision.

By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision when choosing a template for your wedding tent cards, ensuring that the final product aligns with your wedding theme and personal preferences.

Customising the design

Choose a Template

Select a template that fits your vision and style. You can find free templates online, or purchase them from sites like Etsy, which offers a wide range of designs, including minimalist, floral, and modern styles. You can also create your own template using programs like Microsoft Word or design software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva.

Personalise with Graphics and Colours

Add your personal touch by incorporating your wedding colours, logo, or other graphics. Use your company's graphics or photographs, or browse sites like Etsy for affordable options. You can also use Microsoft Clip Art for simple designs.

Include Relevant Information

Decide on the information you want to include on the tent cards. The couple's names, wedding date, and a short message or quote are common choices. You could also include a small map of the wedding venue or a fun illustration.

Customise the Text

Play around with different fonts and text sizes to find a combination that suits your design. You can use Word Art in Microsoft Word to create upside-down or sideways text for a unique look. Just remember that you can't mail merge to Word Art, so plan your design accordingly.

Test and Print

Before printing your final design, do a few test prints on regular paper to ensure your layout is correct. Hold the printed sheet against the tent card paper to check alignment. Make any necessary adjustments until you're happy with the result.

With these tips, you can create beautiful, customised wedding tent cards that will add a special touch to your big day.

Printing the cards

Printing your own wedding tent cards is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your special day. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you print your own wedding tent cards:

Step 1: Choose a Template

Firstly, decide on a template for your cards. You can find free templates online or purchase a template from Etsy. Alternatively, you can create your own template from scratch using programs such as Microsoft Word or Publisher. If you're feeling creative, you can even design your cards using graphics software like Canva or Adobe Illustrator.

Step 2: Select Your Cardstock

When choosing cardstock for your wedding tent cards, opt for a weight between 80lb and 110lb. This weight range will ensure your cards are sturdy enough to stand on their own while still being easy to feed through your printer. Remember to select cardstock that is compatible with your printer. Most home printers can only handle cardstock up to a certain thickness, so be sure to test your printer's capabilities before purchasing cardstock in bulk.

Step 3: Design Your Cards

Now for the fun part—designing your cards! You can get as creative as you like here, incorporating your wedding colors, theme, and even photos. Be sure to leave enough space for your guests' names and table numbers. If you're using a mail merge function to add your guest list, double-check that the names and table numbers are correct.

Step 4: Test Print

Before printing all your cards, it's essential to do a test print on regular paper. Hold the printed sheet against your cardstock to ensure everything lines up correctly. Check that the text is readable and that the colors match your expectations. Make any necessary adjustments to your design before printing on the cardstock.

Step 5: Print Your Cards

Once you're happy with your test print, it's time to print your cards. Feed your cardstock into the printer according to the test print results and your printer's instructions. Print slowly to avoid any smudging or misprints, especially if you're using thicker cardstock.

Step 6: Cut and Fold

If your cardstock doesn't come pre-perforated, you'll need to cut the cards yourself. Use a ruler and a craft knife or a paper cutter for a straight, precise cut. Finally, fold the cards along the perforation or crease, and your wedding tent cards are ready!

Printing your own wedding tent cards can be a fun and rewarding project. With these steps, you'll be able to create beautiful, personalized cards that will impress your guests and add a unique touch to your wedding day.

Buying pre-made cards

If you're looking for a quick and convenient way to make wedding tent cards, buying pre-made cards is a great option. This option saves you time and effort, as you won't need to worry about printing or cutting the cards yourself. Here's a guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Choose a Retailer

Start by deciding where you want to purchase your pre-made wedding tent cards. There are several online and offline retailers that offer a wide range of options. Popular choices include Amazon, Etsy, Walmart, Office Max, and Hobby Lobby. You can also explore specialised wedding stationery stores, such as WeddingWire and The Knot, for more elegant and personalised designs.

Step 2: Select a Design

Once you've chosen a retailer, browse through their selection of pre-made tent cards. You'll find a variety of designs, colours, and styles to choose from. Consider the theme and colour scheme of your wedding when making your selection. Some cards may also offer customisation options, allowing you to add personal touches such as your names, wedding date, or a special message.

Step 3: Place Your Order

After finalising your design, it's time to place your order. Most online retailers will allow you to select the quantity of cards you need. Pre-made tent cards usually come in packs of 50, 100, or more. Make sure to order a few extra cards to account for any last-minute guest list changes or unexpected errors.

Step 4: Customise and Print (Optional)

If you've opted for customisable pre-made cards, you can now finalise your design. Upload your guest list, and add any additional text or graphics to the template provided by the retailer. Double-check all the details for accuracy before submitting your order for printing.

Step 5: Delivery and Assembly

Depending on the retailer and shipping method you choose, your pre-made tent cards will arrive within a specified timeframe. Some retailers offer free shipping above a certain order value. Once you receive your order, all you need to do is assemble the cards by folding them into tent shapes. Pre-made tent cards usually come with pre-scored fold lines, making assembly quick and easy.

By following these simple steps, you can efficiently create elegant and consistent wedding tent cards, saving you time and effort during the busy wedding planning process.

Using a label maker

Step 1: Choose the Right Label Maker

First, you'll need to select a suitable label maker for your project. Consider the features you'll need, such as font options and borders, and the ability to print on clear or coloured labels. Some label makers even offer different font sizes and special characters, allowing you to add a personal touch to your tent cards.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Make sure you have all the necessary supplies before you begin. This includes your label maker, a suitable number of labels (clear or coloured, depending on your preference), and a design plan or template to work from. It's always a good idea to have extra labels on hand in case of mistakes or last-minute changes.

Step 3: Design Your Tent Cards

Now for the creative part! Decide on the layout and design of your tent cards. You can include the guest's name, table number, and even a coloured corner or small icon to indicate their meal choice. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add your wedding logo, colours, or other graphics to the design.

Step 4: Test and Finalise Your Design

Before printing all your tent cards, it's a good idea to do a test print on regular paper to ensure your layout is correct. Hold the printed sheet against a blank label sheet to check that everything lines up as it should. Make any necessary adjustments to your design until you're happy with the result.

Step 5: Print Your Tent Cards

Once you're satisfied with your design and test print, it's time to print your tent cards! Feed the label sheets into your label maker and print away. If your label maker allows for customisation, you may be able to print on both sides of the labels, adding extra details or your wedding logo.

Step 6: Cut and Assemble

After printing, carefully cut out each label, following the outline of the label shape. Then, fold the labels into a tent card shape. You can also use a paper cutter or a craft knife for a more precise cut. If desired, you can place the finished tent cards in a holder or display them in a way that complements your wedding décor.

Frequently asked questions