Creating Rustic Wood Slabs For Your Wedding Day

Wood slabs are a popular choice for wedding decor, thanks to their versatility and ability to complement a range of themes and colour palettes. From centrepieces to cake stands, there are many ways to incorporate wood slabs into your wedding. You can buy pre-made wood slabs or make your own by purchasing bulk wood and cutting it to your desired size and shape.

Wood slab centrepieces

Sourcing Wood Slabs

You can buy wood slabs in bulk from online retailers such as Amazon and Etsy. These are often sold in packs of 6, 10, or 12, and range in size from 7 to 14 inches in diameter and 1 to 2 inches thick. You can also find a variety of different types of wood, including basswood, birch, walnut, and poplar. When purchasing wood slabs, you can choose between finished and unfinished wood, depending on your preference.

Decorating Wood Slab Centrepieces

• Wood burning: You can use wood-burning techniques to personalize your wood slabs with carvings, such as the initials of the newlyweds or other designs.
• Flowers and candles: For a rustic look, combine wood slabs with glass candle holders, flower vases, and wildflowers or succulents.
• Table numbers: Wood slabs can be used as table numbers, providing a practical and attractive way to display table numbers while adding variety to your centrepieces.
• Calligraphy: Pairing wooden slabs with calligraphy can create beautiful "Mr." and "Mrs." signs that make excellent keepsakes and photo props.
• Dessert tiers: Wood slabs of different sizes can be stacked to create an adorable dessert tier, showcasing your cookies, cupcakes, and donuts.
• Chalkboard signs: Turn your wood slabs into cute chalkboard signs with lovely lettering. These can be used for a variety of purposes, from "unplugged wedding" signs to simple welcome messages.
• Tea lights: Adding tea lights to wood slab centrepieces can create a magical and romantic atmosphere.
• Mix and match materials: To steer away from the rustic look, you can mix and match wood slabs with other materials like glass and flower vases for a more modern feel.

No matter what your wedding theme is, wood slab centrepieces offer a lot of room for creativity and customization.

Wooden wedding signs

Welcome Signs

A wooden welcome sign is a great way to greet your guests and make a memorable first impression. You can add your names, the wedding date, and a witty line like, "Let's get this party started!" For a more elegant touch, consider using custom calligraphy or adding unexpected materials like leather or copper.

Directional Signs

Directional signs are practical and can help establish separate areas for your ceremony and reception, especially in a large space. Simple wooden arrows or a chic directional sign can guide guests to the ceremony area, reception, or other areas of interest.

Quote Signs

Add a personal touch with a wooden sign featuring your favourite quote, song lyric, or book excerpt. This is a great way to incorporate something meaningful to you as a couple into your wedding decor.

Drink Signs

Offer your guests a drink with a fun wooden sign, such as "Take a Shot, Take Your Seat," displayed alongside tequila shooters or another signature drink.

Seating Charts and Escort Cards

Wooden seating charts and escort cards can be dressed up with delicate white lettering, florals, or greenery for a romantic touch. For a contemporary twist, display guests' tables on sheets of paper in your wedding palette, pinned to light wooden boards.

Wedding Cards and Gifts

Create a cute card box with a wooden "Cards" sign to provide a designated space for guests to drop off their wedding cards and gifts.

Menu Displays

Let your guests know their dining options with a wooden menu display. This is especially fitting for a rustic-themed wedding, and you can even use rustic spirits boxes to prop up your menu.

Photo Booth Backdrops

Create an oversized wooden frame and find a photogenic spot to instantly transform it into a photo booth. You can even add your custom logo or other decorations to make it more personalised.

Dessert Display

Draw guests to your dessert area with a wooden sign. A make-your-own s'mores station, for example, is a sweet way to end the night, and a wooden sign will invite guests to indulge.

Table Decorations

Wooden table decorations, such as "Mr." and "Mrs." signs, add a rustic touch to your wedding tables and also make for great photo props.

Wood slab guest books

Sourcing the Wood Slab

You can find wood slabs in various shapes and sizes from craft stores, or online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon. When choosing a slab, consider the size of your guest list to ensure there is enough room for guests to write their names and messages. Look for slabs with a smooth, sanded surface that will be easy to write on.

Preparing the Wood Slab

Before using the wood slab as a guest book, you may want to treat the wood to protect it and ensure the signatures last. You can apply a clear coat of polyurethane or a wood sealer to the surface, following the instructions on the product. This will give the wood a nice finish and make it easier to display after your wedding.

Displaying the Wood Slab Guest Book

On the day of your wedding, set up a designated table for the wood slab guest book. You can add decorations around it, such as flowers, candles, or other rustic elements that complement the natural beauty of the wood. Provide guests with suitable pens, preferably ones that will write clearly and permanently on the wood. You may also want to display a sign with instructions or a prompt for guests, such as "Please sign your names and a message for the happy couple!"

After the Wedding

Once the wedding is over, you can display your wood slab guest book in your home as a unique memento. Consider hanging it on a wall or leaning it against a shelf as a conversation piece. The natural grain and texture of the wood, combined with the heartfelt messages from your guests, will create a one-of-a-kind piece of art that you can cherish for years to come.

Wood slab wedding cake stands

Sourcing Your Wood Slab

Firstly, you'll need to source your wood slab. You can purchase these from craft stores, or online marketplaces such as Etsy and Amazon. When selecting your slab, consider the size of your cake and the number of tiers it has. You want to ensure the slab is large enough to comfortably hold the cake with some room to spare. Also, take into account the thickness of the slab; a thicker slab will provide more stability.

Preparing the Wood Slab

Before using your slab as a cake stand, it's important to ensure it's clean and free of any dirt or debris. You may also want to sand the wood to create a smooth surface, especially if the slab is rough. This will also help you achieve a consistent finish when staining or painting.

Finishing the Wood Slab

You can finish your wood slab in a variety of ways to create a unique look for your wedding cake stand. Here are some options:

• Staining: You can stain the wood to enhance its natural colour and grain pattern. Choose a stain colour that complements your wedding colour palette.
• Painting: If you want a more modern or colourful look, you can paint the slab. Use a primer first to ensure the paint adheres well, then choose a paint colour that suits your theme.
• Natural: For a more rustic or natural look, you can simply seal the wood with a clear coat of varnish or wood sealer. This will protect the wood while maintaining its natural beauty.

Adding Legs

If you want to add height to your cake stand, you can attach legs to the slab. Metal hairpin legs are a popular choice for a modern look, while wooden legs will enhance the rustic vibe. Make sure the legs are securely attached to support the weight of the cake.

Decorating Your Cake Stand

Once your wood slab is prepared and finished, you can add some decorative touches. Consider wrapping twine or ribbon around the edges of the slab and tying it in a bow. You could also add some fresh greenery or flowers, or even some small fairy lights for a magical touch.

Displaying Your Cake

When it comes to displaying your wedding cake on the wood slab, consider placing it on a table with a complementary tablecloth or runner. Surround the cake with additional greenery, flowers, or candles to create a stunning focal point for your wedding reception.

A wood slab cake stand is a unique and memorable way to showcase your wedding cake. With a little creativity and some simple tools, you can easily make your own and even customise it to match your wedding theme.

Wood slab table numbers

Sourcing the Wood Slabs

Firstly, you'll need to source your wood slabs. These can be purchased from craft stores or online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon. When buying, consider the size and thickness of the slabs, ensuring they are large enough to accommodate your chosen font size and design. Look for slabs with a smooth surface, as this will make writing or painting the table numbers easier.

Preparing the Wood Slabs

Before adding the table numbers, you may want to treat the wood slabs to ensure they are clean and free of any dirt or debris. Lightly sanding the slabs can create a smoother surface for writing and ensure the wood is free of splinters. If you want to enhance the natural grain of the wood, consider using a wood stain. You can also paint the slabs with a clear coat of sealant to protect them from spills and stains.

Adding the Table Numbers

Now comes the creative part—adding the table numbers! Here are some options to consider:

• Painting: Using a paintbrush and acrylic paint, carefully paint the table number onto the slab. You can use stencils to ensure the numbers are neat and evenly spaced.
• Wood burning: For a permanent option, try wood burning. Use a wood-burning tool to carefully etch the table number into the surface of the slab. This method creates a rustic and elegant look.
• Calligraphy: If you have neat handwriting or are confident in your calligraphy skills, try writing the table numbers directly onto the slabs with a permanent marker or paint pen.
• Stickers: For a quick and easy option, use pre-made stickers or vinyl decals. You can find these in various fonts and sizes online or at craft stores.

Decorating the Wood Slabs

To add a decorative touch to your wood slab table numbers, consider the following ideas:

• Greenery: Adorn the slabs with small sprigs of greenery, such as eucalyptus or baby's breath. You can also add a single flower that matches your wedding colour palette.
• Ribbons: Tie a delicate ribbon around the slab, adding a pop of colour and texture.
• Candles: Place a small candle on top of the slab, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Ensure the flame is far away from any flammable decorations.
• Place card holders: Attach a small place card holder to the slab, and insert a card with the table number written on it. This allows you to easily change the numbers if needed.

Displaying the Table Numbers

Finally, consider how you will display your wood slab table numbers. Here are some ideas:

• Table centrepiece: Place the slab in the centre of the table, surrounded by floral arrangements or candles.
• Table number stand: Create a small stand for the slab using a wooden block or easel. This elevates the table number and makes it easier for guests to spot.
• Leaning against a backdrop: If you have a backdrop or wall behind the table, lean the slab against it. This works well if you have a seating chart or other decorative elements displayed.

Frequently asked questions