Wedding signs are one of those details that quietly do a lot of work on the day. They guide guests, set the atmosphere, and add a personal touch to your venue. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know which signs you actually need and what to put on them. This checklist walks you through the most common pieces, what to think about for each, and how to avoid the errors that cause the most stress.
Welcome Signs
A welcome sign is usually placed at the entrance to your ceremony or reception venue — or both, if they're at different locations. It's one of the first things guests see, so it sets the tone for the day.
What to confirm before ordering:
- Both names, spelled exactly as you want them to appear
- The date — written out in the format you prefer
- Any additional wording (e.g. a short welcome message or the venue name)
Placement to consider: Near the venue entrance, on an easel, propped against a wall, or hung depending on your venue's setup. Check with your venue coordinator what's possible before ordering a specific format.
Table Plans and Seating Chart Displays
A table plan (also called a seating chart) shows guests where they're sitting. It's one of the most information-heavy signs you'll order, and also one of the most error-prone — so it deserves extra care.
What to confirm before ordering:
- Final guest list — do not order until you have confirmed RSVPs
- Table names or numbers, and which guests sit at each
- Correct spelling of every guest name — check against your RSVP responses
- Whether you're listing guests alphabetically or by table
Placement to consider: Typically displayed near the entrance to the reception room so guests can find their seats before being directed in. An easel or a dedicated display stand works well for most formats.
Because seating plans are finalised late in the planning process, this is often the last sign you'll order. Build in enough time between your RSVP deadline and your order submission to allow for proofing. For more on quantities and timing for on-the-day pieces, see our guide on how many menus and order-of-the-day cards you need.
Order-of-the-Day Displays
An order-of-the-day sign gives guests a timeline of the day's events — ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast, speeches, first dance, and so on. It's a helpful reference point and a popular alternative or complement to printed order-of-service booklets.
What to confirm before ordering:
- The full schedule, with approximate times
- Any event names that are specific to your day (e.g. a named drinks reception or a particular tradition)
- Whether you want a general overview or a more detailed breakdown
Placement to consider: Often displayed at the entrance to the reception, near the bar, or in a central spot where guests naturally gather. Some couples display one at both the ceremony and reception venues.
Bar and Drinks Menus
If you're offering a drinks menu, a bar sign or drinks menu display is a practical and decorative addition. These are typically one-off display pieces rather than per-guest items.
What to confirm before ordering:
- The drinks you're offering — confirm with your caterer or venue before finalising
- Whether you want a general welcome drinks list, a full bar menu, or both
- Any non-alcoholic options to include
Other Signs Worth Considering
Depending on your venue and wedding style, you might also find the following useful:
- Directional signs: Helpful at larger venues or outdoor spaces where guests might need guidance between areas
- Gift or card table signs: A simple note directing guests to where gifts or cards should be left
- Unplugged ceremony signs: If you'd like guests to put phones away during the ceremony, a sign at the entrance communicates this clearly and warmly
- Reserved seating signs: For front rows at the ceremony reserved for immediate family
Availability varies by collection — browse our wedding signs range to see what's currently offered and find designs that suit your wedding style.
Avoiding Common Errors
Signage errors are frustrating because they're visible to every guest. Here's how to minimise the risk:
- Proof the seating plan last. It changes the most and is the most complex to check. Go through every name individually against your confirmed RSVP list.
- Read wording aloud. It's easier to catch awkward phrasing or missing words when you hear them.
- Ask someone else to check. A fresh pair of eyes will spot things you've read past too many times.
- Confirm venue details. If your sign includes a venue name, room name, or address, verify the exact spelling with the venue directly.
All personalised sign orders go through a digital proofing stage before production begins. You'll receive a proof to review, and we ask for written approval before anything goes to print. Take your time at this stage — once approved, changes aren't possible without a new order.
How Signs Fit Alongside Your Other On-the-Day Stationery
Wedding signs work best when they feel cohesive with the rest of your on-the-day stationery. If you're ordering menus, place cards, and table numbers at the same time, it's worth considering whether your signs come from the same collection or at least share a similar aesthetic.
Wedding Signage Checklist
- ✓ Welcome sign — names, date, and any additional wording confirmed
- ✓ Seating chart — final guest list and table assignments confirmed; all names checked
- ✓ Order-of-the-day display — full schedule with timings confirmed
- ✓ Bar or drinks menu — drinks list confirmed with caterer or venue
- ✓ Any directional, gift table, unplugged, or reserved seating signs identified
- ✓ Availability checked for your chosen collection
- ✓ Venue consulted on display options (easels, hanging, wall placement)
- ✓ Every sign proofed carefully before written approval is given
If you're not sure which signs are right for your venue or have questions about what's available, get in touch — we're happy to help you work out what you need.