Yard Wedding Signs: Diy Guide To Make Your Own

Wedding yard signs are a great way to add a personal touch to your big day. Whether you're looking for something elegant and modern or fun and whimsical, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can find ready-made signs or create your own custom design, with some websites offering the option to personalise text and upload images. Many signs are double-sided, and some are even waterproof, making them perfect for outdoor use. You can also choose from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, and metal. Whether you're looking for a simple arrow to direct guests or a more elaborate display to welcome them, wedding yard signs are a great way to celebrate your special day.

Choosing a design

Consider the purpose of the sign:

Are you looking to direct guests to the wedding venue or a specific area within it, such as the parking lot or reception area? Perhaps you want to welcome guests with a warm message or provide information about the happy couple. Thinking about the purpose of your sign will help narrow down your design options.

Choose a style that reflects the theme and aesthetic of your wedding:

If you're having a rustic-themed wedding, consider yard signs made from corrugated plastic or wood with simple, elegant designs and fonts. For a more modern or minimalist wedding, go for sleek and simple designs, perhaps with a bold colour accent. If your wedding has a bohemian or rustic theme, opt for signs with floral designs, greenery, or eucalyptus leaves.

Decide on the size and shape of the sign:

Will your sign be large and eye-catching, or small and subtle? Consider the placement of your sign and choose a size that will be visible and legible from a distance. As for shape, most wedding yard signs are rectangular or square, but you could also opt for something more unique, like an arrow or a custom letter.

Personalize your sign:

Make your sign unique to you and your partner by including personal touches such as your names, wedding date, or a meaningful quote. You can also add design elements that reflect your interests or the theme of your wedding. For example, if you love nature, incorporate floral designs or greenery into your sign.

Use colour to create a visually appealing sign:

Colour can be a great way to add interest and visual appeal to your wedding yard sign. Consider using colours that complement your wedding colour palette or the colours of the wedding venue. You can also use colour to highlight important information or make your sign more visible.

Choose the right material for your sign:

The material of your yard sign will depend on factors such as durability, cost, and ease of customization. Common materials include corrugated plastic, wood, and metal. Consider the weather conditions and the placement of your sign to choose a material that will withstand the elements.

Remember, your wedding yard sign should reflect your personal style and the overall theme of your wedding. Have fun with the design process and don't be afraid to get creative!

Using a template

• Choose a platform: Start by selecting an online platform that offers wedding yard sign templates. Some popular options include VistaPrint, Canva, and Etsy. These platforms offer a variety of templates with different styles, sizes, and customisation options.
• Select a template: Browse through the available templates and choose one that fits your wedding theme and aesthetic. Consider the colour scheme, font styles, and overall design of the template. You can also choose between one-sided or double-sided printing, depending on your needs.
• Customise your design: Once you've selected a template, it's time to make it your own. Upload your wedding logo, monogram, or any other relevant images you want to include. You can also change the text to include your wedding details, such as the couple's names, date, and location. Play around with different font styles, sizes, and colours to create a design that stands out and is easy to read.
• Add personal touches: Include any special touches that reflect your wedding theme or the couple's personality. This could include incorporating specific colours, motifs, or even a favourite quote or lyric. You can also add decorative elements like borders, illustrations, or icons to enhance the design.
• Review and finalise: Before finalising your design, take the time to review all the details. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes, and ensure that all the information is accurate and up-to-date. You may also want to consider getting a second opinion or feedback from your wedding party or friends to ensure that the design is clear and effective.
• Print and display: Once you're happy with your design, it's time to print your wedding yard signs. Depending on the platform you choose, you may be able to print the signs yourself, or you can utilise their printing services. Ensure that you select a durable material, especially if the signs are for outdoor use. Finally, display your wedding yard signs proudly to welcome and direct your wedding guests!

Using templates simplifies the process of creating wedding yard signs, allowing you to focus on customising the design to make it unique and special for your big day.

Printing your sign

There are many options available for printing your wedding yard sign. You can choose to print a custom design or select from a range of pre-made templates.

If you opt for a custom design, you can upload your own artwork or create a design using an online tool provided by the printing service. This allows you to personalize your sign with text, images, and logos. You can also specify the size and material of your sign to ensure it meets your exact requirements.

Some printing services offer double-sided printing, which is ideal for directional signs or signs that need to be visible from multiple angles. Additionally, consider whether you want a simple print or something more elaborate, like a neon sign or a sign with a custom metal finish.

When it comes to the actual printing process, you can choose from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and even wood. The material you choose will depend on factors such as durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal. For example, corrugated plastic is a popular choice for yard signs as it is lightweight, durable, and cost-effective.

Once you have decided on the design and material, you can place your order with the printing service. Many online platforms, such as Etsy, offer custom printing services with various options to personalize your sign. Alternatively, you can opt for a more traditional printing company, like Staples, which may provide additional support and expertise.

After placing your order, review the estimated delivery time and shipping costs. Some companies offer free shipping above a certain order value, so keep an eye out for such deals. Finally, don't forget to check the reviews of the printing service to ensure you're getting high-quality products and reliable service.

Adding decorations

Flowers and Greenery

Add a touch of nature to your yard signs by incorporating floral and greenery decorations. You can choose fresh or artificial flowers and leaves to create a beautiful and elegant display. Opt for flowers in shades of pink, blush, and gold for a romantic and chic look. For a more rustic or bohemian theme, consider using sunflowers and pampas grass. You can attach these decorations directly to the yard signs or create a backdrop of flowers and greenery behind the signs.

Lights and Lanterns

String lights or lanterns can add a magical and whimsical touch to your wedding yard signs. Opt for fairy lights or hanging lanterns to create a soft and romantic glow. You can drape the lights around the signs or use them to outline the signs, making them more visible and eye-catching. For a more rustic or bohemian theme, consider using string lights with exposed bulbs or hanging mason jar lanterns.

Ribbons and Bows

Ribbons and bows can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your yard signs. Choose ribbons in colours that complement your wedding theme and use them to create bows or streamers attached to the signs. For a more whimsical look, consider using sheer or flowing ribbons that will blow gently in the breeze. You can also use ribbons to secure bunches of flowers or greenery to the signs, creating a more dimensional decoration.

Personalized Details

Incorporate personalized details such as your wedding date, initials, or a meaningful quote to make your yard signs more unique and special. You can use stencils and paint to add these details directly to the signs or create removable decorations that can be attached to the signs. Another idea is to include engagement photos or a monogram sign with your names and wedding date. These personalized touches will make your yard signs even more memorable.

Colourful Accents

Add pops of colour to your yard signs to make them more vibrant and festive. This can be done by incorporating colourful ribbons, balloons, or paper pompoms in your wedding colour palette. For a more elegant approach, consider using metallic gold or silver accents to give your yard signs a touch of glamour. Colourful accents can be used to frame the signs, accent certain design elements, or create 3D effects that will make your signs stand out.

Using stakes

Types of Stakes

There are various types of stakes available, each serving a specific purpose. The most common types are:

• Wire Stakes: These stakes are made of wire or steel and are lightweight yet durable. They are easy to install by stepping them into the ground and sliding the yard signs onto them.
• Standard Wire Stakes: These are typically made of 9-gauge steel and are suitable for most yard signs.
• Heavy-Duty Stakes: These stakes have a stronger structure, with a base made from 1/4" steel and a welded top made from 9-gauge steel. They provide extra stability against wind and other elements, ensuring your sign remains upright.
• Metal Stakes: Metal stakes are similar to those used for parking and stop signs, offering maximum support and durability.

Attaching the Sign to the Stake

The process of attaching the sign to the stake depends on the type of materials used:

• Wooden Stake and Sign: If you're using a wooden stake and sign, use wood nails that are long enough to penetrate through the back of the stake. Bend the nails with a hammer to secure the sign.
• Metal Stake with Holes and Wooden Sign: For this combination, drill holes in the sign board near the top and bottom. Attach the board to the stake using heavy-duty screws and washers. Ensure the board is affixed several inches down from the top of the stake for better support.

Installation

To install your wedding yard sign with a stake, follow these steps:

• Dig a hole deep enough to prevent the sign from falling over.
• Pack the dirt firmly around the stake.
• Pile some rocks around the base for added stability.
• Place your sign in a visible location that doesn't interfere with regular yard activities.
• If using wire stakes, step the stakes into the ground and slide the yard signs onto them, positioning the points of the stakes over the corrugated flutes.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure the longevity of your wedding yard sign:

• Clean the sign regularly with a damp cloth for indoor use and warm water and mild detergent for outdoor use.
• Store the sign in a cool, dry place when not in use, ensuring nothing heavy is stacked on top to avoid bending.
• For extra protection, apply a sealer such as polyurethane, especially if you anticipate extreme weather conditions.

By following these instructions, you can effectively use stakes to display your wedding yard signs, ensuring they are stable, visible, and long-lasting.

Frequently asked questions