Oh, the Cuteness (a.k.a. "A Story of Escort Cards")

In earlier posts, I lamented my inability to make a decision about escort cards. I knew I wanted them, in fact felt strongly that I needed to have them. I even found a lot of designs that I liked. Maybe even a few that I loved. But I couldn't land on a final design. I got momentarily inspired and excited by a new-found design, only to quickly lose steam once it came time to actually design them.

And then, while searching wedding favor stores for completely unrelated items, I found my solution. The skies parted, sun shone through and a choir of angels heralded the arrival of a perfect solution! OK, admittedly, that's a smidge dramatic, but I think I made my point. It was a solution so lovely, so perfect, so "me" that I ordered them immediately. I can now introduce you to my escort cards:

While I fully intend to redesign the basic card, the idea of the plantable paper snowflake and the use of a gardening pun simply warmed my heart. Who doesn't love a well-placed pun? It may not be the most creative solution, or even the most elegant, but it's very much in tune with my "green" sensibilities and adds a charming touch of spring to our winter festivities!

Escort Cards

Originally, we had decided against a seating chart because we're having such a small affair (~55 people). After reading a lot of information online; however, it seems as though we should at least assign folks to a specific table. Apparently, there is a possibility of Aunt Myrtle getting her feelings hurt because no one saves her a spot at the family table, or Uncle Fred is upset that there isn't a table big enough for all his golf buddies.

I have been to weddings recently that didn't have seating charts, and there is a bit of an awkward pause while folks stand idly by tables, waiting to see who else is sitting where. Alright, I give. We'll assign folks to seats. I do think it will expedite the sitting down process, so I'm in.

Alas, here comes the eternal question of escort card design. Do we do a simple card that is solely designed to get person A to seat 1? Do we do something clever with table numbers or table names? Do we combine favors and escort cards? So many choices...

Long story, short (perhaps it's too late). I haven't decided. There are some ideas that I love:

Glittery snow? Love it. Or perhaps these charming fabric circles.

I adore the leaves on the branch, but I also like these vintage illustrations.

The wreath has obvious December application, but how do I resist these little mini books?

The undeniable appeal of moss or perhaps the clean lines of this accordion fold. All these lovely options from creative team of Martha Stewart Weddings.

I also like these clever table number (or name) ideas:

As a total word nerd, these scrabble tile frames immediately caught my eye.

This adorable approach highlights the bride and groom at the ages indicated by the table number. I *heart* this one a lot.

Constellations? Geek chic, for sure. These simple photo table numbers are also ridiculously cute.

Perhaps the leader in this race is this adorable idea that highlights the couple's favorite vacation spots.

Well, even if I don't know which direction I'm going in yet, at least I had the chance to highlight some crafty and creative brides (and the design team at MSW)!