Print Your Own Wedding Signs: A Step-By-Step Guide To Large-Format Printing

Printing big wedding signs can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and the right resources, you can create stunning signage that will elevate your special day. From design to materials and printing options, here's an overview to guide you through the process.

Firstly, designing your wedding signage is a fun opportunity to infuse your personality and style into the decor. Online platforms like Canva offer an extensive library of fonts, graphics, and illustrations to choose from, allowing you to create unique designs. Alternatively, editable templates from websites like Etsy or hiring a graphic designer are great options if you're short on time or prefer a more customized approach.

When it comes to materials, popular choices include poster printing, foam board, and corrugated plastic. Poster printing is cost-effective and eco-friendly, while foam board signs are lightweight, durable, and perfect for displaying on easels. Corrugated plastic signs are ideal for outdoor weddings as they are durable, waterproof, and affordable.

To get your signs printed, consider using online printing services or local print shops. Online options like Vistaprint, Zazzle, and FedEx offer convenience and competitive prices, while local print shops like Staples and Office Depot provide quick turnaround times and quality checking.

Lastly, don't forget to plan the display of your signs. Easels, picture frames, hanging from ribbons, or placing them in centerpieces are all creative ways to showcase your wedding signage.

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to creating beautiful and personalized big wedding signs that will wow your guests and elevate your celebration.

Choosing the right materials for your wedding signs

• Budget: Consider the cost of different materials and choose options that fit within your budget. Poster printing, for example, is often more affordable than hand-painted signs or expensive vinyl graphics.
• Durability: If you're planning an outdoor wedding, consider using corrugated plastic signs, which are durable, waterproof, and affordable. For indoor weddings, foam board signs are a great option as they are lightweight and can be easily customised.
• Aesthetics: Choose materials that complement your wedding theme and style. Acrylic signs offer versatility and can suit almost any wedding style, while natural materials like wood provide a unique, rustic vibe.
• Eco-friendliness: Opt for eco-conscious materials such as poster paper, which is often made from sustainable materials and can be recycled after the event. Some foam board and corrugated plastic signs are also made from recyclable materials.
• Display options: Think about how you want to display your signs. Poster signs can be framed or hung, while foam board signs are perfect for displaying on easels or stands. Acrylic signs can be hung or placed on easels, adding a sleek and modern touch.
• Turnaround time: Consider the time it will take to print and deliver your signs. Poster printing typically has a quicker turnaround time compared to other options, especially if you use a local print shop.
• Customisation: If you want to incorporate graphics or custom designs, printing your signs on paper or canvas allows for easy customisation and high-quality results.
• Availability: Check the availability of your desired materials with local print shops or online providers. Some materials, like corrugated plastic, may only be available from select print shops.

Remember, the right materials for your wedding signs will depend on your specific needs, budget, and style preferences. By considering these factors, you can create beautiful and functional signage that enhances your special day.

Printing your signs

There are several options available for printing your wedding signs. You can opt for online printing services or visit a local print shop. Here are some popular choices:

• Vistaprint: They offer a range of printing options, including posters, foam boards, and yard signs. They also have frequent sales and discounts, making them a cost-effective choice.
• Staples: They provide good-quality printing services and can work with various materials, such as thick poster boards and Etsy templates.
• FedEx: They offer templates that you can customise and pick up from any FedEx location. Their prices start at $75 for a large mounted poster board.
• Office Depot: They provide poster printing services at affordable prices, starting at around $20. You can also opt for foam board printing, but you may need to mount it yourself.
• Zazzle: They offer easy and inexpensive printing services. You can print on regular paper and then mount it on foam board or cardboard for a more durable option.
• Canva: This is a user-friendly online graphic design platform that offers a range of features, including a library of fonts, graphics, and illustrations. It's free to use and allows you to create unique and personalised designs.
• Etsy: Etsy offers a wide range of printed wedding signs, including welcome signs, seating charts, direction signs, and menu signs. You can find various designs, materials, and price points to suit your needs.
• Local print shops: Visiting a local print shop is a good option if you're under time constraints or need urgent printing services. They can usually complete the job within a few business days.

When choosing a printing service, consider factors such as price, turnaround time, availability, and the type of material you want to print on. Additionally, don't forget to allow ample time for the printing process and place your order at least a few weeks in advance to avoid last-minute rushes.

Framing your wedding signs

Choose the Right Frame Style

The style of the frame you choose will depend on the overall theme and aesthetic of your wedding. For a rustic or vintage-inspired wedding, consider using wooden frames with distressed finishes or natural materials such as branches or twigs. For a more modern or minimalist wedding, opt for sleek metal frames or acrylic sign holders. If your wedding has a glamorous or luxurious theme, explore options such as gold or brass frames to add a touch of sophistication.

Consider Different Frame Sizes

Wedding signs come in various sizes, and it's important to choose a frame that fits your sign perfectly. Standard sizes for welcome signs range from 16x20 inches to 18x24 inches, while table signs are typically smaller, measuring around 5x7 inches to 11x14 inches. Ensure that the frame you select complements the size of your sign and is easy to read for your guests.

Explore Creative Display Options

There are numerous ways to display your framed wedding signs. Easels are a popular choice, especially for larger signs, as they provide a stable and visible platform. Tabletop holders, including wooden, metal, or acrylic sign stands, are ideal for smaller signs and can be placed on guest book tables or dessert displays. For a unique touch, consider hanging your framed signs from ribbons or twine, allowing them to gently blow in the breeze.

Mix and Match Materials

Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and textures when framing your wedding signs. Combining vintage gold mirrors with modern acrylic signs can create a stylish and eclectic look. Alternatively, opt for cohesive framing throughout your venue by choosing frames in similar styles or colours to create a sense of unity in your wedding decor.

Enhance the Overall Aesthetic

Framed wedding signs can be incorporated into your wedding decor to enhance the overall aesthetic. For example, a beautifully framed welcome sign can be placed at the entrance to greet guests, while table signs can be framed and displayed alongside centrepieces or floral arrangements. Framed bar menus or dessert signs can also be strategically placed to guide guests and elevate the visual appeal of the reception area.

Source Frames from Various Places

When sourcing frames for your wedding signs, explore a variety of options. Retail stores such as Michael's, Target, and Hobby Lobby offer a wide range of frame styles and sizes. Online platforms like Etsy or specialty wedding decor shops can also be great sources for unique and themed frames. Don't forget to check local rental companies or thrift stores for more sustainable and cost-effective options.

Hiring a calligrapher

Start Early

It's never too early to start contacting wedding professionals, including calligraphers. While you don't need to book them as soon as you get engaged, it's a good idea to reach out early to express your interest. This is especially important during the busy wedding season, as the best calligraphers' calendars can fill up quickly.

Location

Opting for a local calligrapher can help you save money on shipping costs. Meeting with a local calligrapher in person also allows you to see samples of their work and discuss your specific needs and requirements.

Reputation and Reviews

When hiring any wedding professional, be sure to consider their reputation and experience. Check for reviews from previous clients and look for examples of their work online or through their portfolio. This will help you assess the quality of their work and ensure that they are a good fit for your wedding vision.

Styles and Fonts

Most calligraphers offer a range of lettering styles and fonts, so be sure to ask about their options. Collect pictures of styles that you like and communicate your preferences clearly to the calligrapher. Most calligraphers name their own fonts, so providing visual references will help ensure that you're both on the same page.

Extras and Add-ons

When hiring a wedding calligrapher, ask about any extras or add-on services they may offer. For example, some calligraphers may provide hand-lettered touches not only for your invitations but also for place cards, menus, save-the-dates, table numbers, and photo props. They may also offer advice on wedding etiquette and the proper wording for invitations, envelopes, and place cards.

Bulk Pricing and Discounts

Some calligraphers may offer bulk pricing discounts if you opt for a larger range of products and services. Consider getting all your wedding paper products, such as invitations, envelopes, place cards, and wedding signs, from the same calligrapher. This will also ensure that all your wedding stationery matches perfectly.

Accessories: Easels and holders

Now that you've designed and printed your wedding signs, it's time to think about how you'll display them. Here are some options for accessories, including easels and holders, to showcase your beautiful creations:

Easels

Easels are a great way to display your wedding signs and there are many options available to suit different needs and aesthetics. Here are some ideas for where to find easels:

• Amazon: A wide range of easels in different materials, colours and sizes are available on Amazon, with many options under $30.
• Etsy: For a more unique or personalised easel, try Etsy. You can find wooden, metal, floor-standing or table-top easels, some of which can be personalised with your initials or wedding date.
• Craft stores: Stores like Michaels, Hobby Lobby and Home Goods offer a range of easels, and you can often find coupons or discounts online.
• Other retailers: Walmart, Costco, and IKEA are other large retailers that may have affordable easel options.
• Your wedding venue: Before purchasing an easel, check with your wedding venue to see if they have any available to borrow or rent.

Holders

If you're looking for something a little different to an easel, there are plenty of other creative ways to display your wedding signs:

• Picture frames: Select frames that match your wedding theme and use them to display your signs, either hanging or standing.
• Hanging from ribbon: Gently hang your signs from a tree, doorway, fence or other natural elements using ribbon. This is a great option for chair signs and door signs.
• Place card holders: Use place card holders to display small table signs, or to hold table numbers above centrepieces.
• Centrepieces: Ask your florist to incorporate your wedding signs into the floral centrepieces or other decorative arrangements.
• Display stands: For a modern look, try a minimalist metal display stand.

No matter which option you choose, there are plenty of ways to showcase your wedding signs and add a personal touch to your special day.

Frequently asked questions