BEAUTIFULLY CREATIVE PLACE NAMES

Place names at the wedding breakfast are great for streamlining the seating process, minimising kerfuffle and ensuring no one is left on their own. When used in conjunction with a seating plan, guests can find their name, identify their designated table and head straight to their seat, simple.
But did you know place names can be much more than a piece of card with a name on it?
They can hold meaning to the newlyweds, be an important part of the table decoration, and even double up as keepsakes for your guests.

We’ve got some beautiful, creative, and sustainable place name ideas to share with you, so go on, take a peek.

Which will you choose?

Recycled or Seed Paper/Card
Let’s start with the basics.
If you’d like to keep things traditional, opt for recycled and recyclable cardstock. There are plenty of stationery creators around the UK who pride themselves on producing beautiful work using sustainable practices.
You can even kick it up a notch by choosing seed paper so your guests can take them home and plant them in their gardens.

Courtesy of Laura Likes


Pebbles
This beautifully beachy idea is perfect for seaside or beach themed weddings.
Perhaps your love popped the question at your favourite little cove? Why not incorporate that special moment into your wedding day. Pebbles commonly feature in people’s gardens, so ask your family and friends if you can borrow some.
You might be thinking, “why don’t we take a nice trip to the beach and collect some?” Well, it’s worth noting that taking pebbles from any beach in the UK is illegal under the Coastal Protection Act 1949. They’re our first line of defence from the strength of the sea so let’s leave them to do their honourable job.
If you don’t fancy writing all those names yourself, employ the services of a local calligrapher, they’ll be happy to work their magic for you.

TIP – Remember to use non-toxic inks/paints on items that will be given back to the garden and wild.

Courtesy of Rhubard and Custard Calligraphy


Leaves
What a fine excuse for a wonderful woodland walk. Take in the beauty of the great outdoors while collecting leaves to use on your special day – it’s cost effective too!
Again, if the thought of writing all those names yourself sets your hands a-cramp, ask a local calligrapher to help you out.

TIP – Magnolia leaves are great if you’re after a deep, rich green, or if it’s an autumnal colour palette you’re looking for, Maples are your best friend!

Courtesy of Oh Wonder Calligraphy


Shells
Another nod to our beautiful coastline. What a pretty and unique alternative they make to place cards.
While it’s not illegal to take seashells from our beaches, it’s not advisable.
Birds use them for nest building, crabs and fish use them for temporary shelter and to hide from predators, and they can be home to our all-important algae.
If you do go beachcombing for shells, make sure there’s no one living inside, and return them once you’re finished.
Another way of procuring shells, particularly Mussel shells, would be to ask local restaurants to keep some back for you to collect. Wash them thoroughly though to avoid any smelly surprises!

Courtesy of Oh Wonder Calligraphy


Favour Place Names
Let your creativity soar by combining your favours and place cards into one item!
You can personalise cookies, Bird seed ornaments, flower seed packets, Christmas decorations for some festive fun, or just about anything else you can think of.
Your guests will be touched to find a perfect little gift with their own name on it, you’ll have ticked two things off your to-do list at once AND saved yourself a little cash. Winning!

TIP – Take a look at our heart-felt and sustainable wedding favour suggestions!

Courtesy of Where the Ribbon Ends


Mini Log Rings
Fancy adding a rustic touch? Mini log rings make enchanting alternatives to traditional place names. A woodland wander will uncover fallen branches perfect for sectioning into small wooden rounds – 2 inches in diameter should do the trick.

TIP – Drill a small hole (not too close to the edge) and add a small piece of twine to transform them into hanging ornaments.

Courtesy of Oh Wonder Calligraphy


Sea Glass
We’ve all come across those pretty little pieces of coloured glass, worn smooth by the constant motion of the sea, but have you ever considered what a beautiful addition they would be to your wedding table?
Imagine your guests delight to find their name inscribed on sea jewels – the blues, greens and ambers glowing as they catch the light.

Courtesy of Oh Wonder Calligraphy