How many big signs do you “need”?

I think the second welcome sign looks fine because it’s not as busy. Keeping it simple like that looks fine but the first one is way too much going on

Need? Zero.... People can manage their way through most weddings without a single sign. This is complete a "want" and is all about what's important to you. Daughter had a welcome sign, although I'd guess most people walked right past it.... She chose escort cards for reception seating rather than a seating chart (more flexible in case of last minute changes -- which she had -- and easier for guests). She had no programs (most guests knew who the key players were, and those who didn't probably did not care). This is an item that I think is strictly a personal preference influenced by how much you want to spend on something that isn't really needed -- it's a decor choice like the style of your centerpieces.

First one is far too busy. Definitely keep it simple. Although I agree, you don't really "need" any signs - the most important would probably be a seating/table chart. A welcome sign is strictly for looks because people know who/what they're their for! lol I also don't think most people care about programs. I personally love them, but not having them for my wedding.

We didn’t have a single sign at our wedding! It was completely fine.

View Quoted Comment I’m finding it actually to be very expensive! Maybe I should just do one welcome sign and a seating chart..


I already have the timelines and wedding party on my website, which everyone will. RSVP on, that should be enough right? Lol everyone on my guest list has a smartphone and can figure it out I think..

I'm not doing any signs. People don't really notice and they're expensive. Plus the DJ will introduce everyone/where to go so I feel comfortable it will be okay

We didn’t have any signs at our wedding. We also didn’t have programs. I don’t think they’re necessary unless you have unique cultural elements.

Signs are never necessary unless you want them. I've personally never seen one in real life at any wedding. Nor was anyone lost or unwelcome without them.


I like the 2nd one since it's not as busy.
For us, the only signs I can see using are smaller signs to list food and beverage options at the bar and hoping to have stations (when this pandemic is over).
Programs are nice to have if the ceremony is religious and guests need to follow along. Beyond that, they're optional. But may include them just because we want to (not having a religious ceremony though).

Signs-zero. Your dj or master of ceremony will guide people. They announce bridal party and you can include parents.

Ill Be Having A Welcome Sign And Timeline Of Events Sign. I Was Also Going To Do A Seating Chart Sign But Now From Reading PP I Might Do Escort Cards

View Quoted Comment Whats the difference? I googled that escort cards you choose your own seat at the table. Table chart is the same, listing who is at what table.

View Quoted Comment

With an escort card, there is a small card (like a placecard) for each guest that includes their name and table number. They are typically laid out in alpha order on a table available to guests during the cocktail hour or on their way into the reception venue. Each guest picks their card up and then know what table to go to. Like you said, at the table they choose their own seat (just like they would based on a seating chart). To me, there are potentially two big advantages of escort cards compared with a seating chart. First, they are easier for guests because guests don't have to crowd around the one chart and find their name and table number (which, if they are like me, they almost immediately forget the table number and have to go back and look again...). Because the escort cards can be spread out it's usually pretty quick and easy for a guest to just grab theirs from the table, and they can just look at it again if they forget what table number they are assigned to. The second BIG advantage is that because each guest has an individual card with their name & table assignment, if there are last minute changes, it's really easy to make out a few new cards to address those changes. Usually, seating charts are printed (either mechanically or by hand) and if there is a last minute change, the chart either needs to be reprinted or it has an obvious correction on it. Daughter chose escort cards. Two days before the wedding, one of my cousins called me to tell me that her husband, who is immunocompromised, wasn't strong enough to attend with her; she asked if it would be okay if her teenage daughter came with her instead. We were fine with that, and it was as easy as writing a new card for her daughter and swapping it out with the one we'd made out for her husband -- no big deal!

With an escort card, arranged alphabetically, guests can refer to them on the way to the tables and still know where to go if they get sidetracked on the way with conversations from other guests. Also they can be color coded to help waitstaff know from a distance who gets which meal selection for plated service.

View Quoted Comment Thanks for explaining! I might have to look into it!

We also had absolutely zero signs and no programs. We did escort cards (pack of Avery small tent cards from Amazon for $10 that come with a free online template and printed at home). I honestly never noticed a welcome sign for any wedding I've attended until I was engaged and paid more attention to stuff at weddings. People know whose wedding they're at so I personally never quite understood the purpose of them. I prefer escort cards over seating charts for all the same reasons MOB So Cal mentioned.

View Quoted Comment Great idea! Thanks!!!

View Quoted Comment Wow this is so much cheaper!! I’ll definitely look into this!!!

I think you can have as many or as little as you want! Personally, I like the second one better. It is less busy and easier to see which I think will cause more people to actually look at it. Honestly programs aren't necessary. I think people take them if they're there, but don't need them (and just throw them away anyway). You can have your DJ announce your bridal party when you make your entrance and that would be enough.