This weekend, I had the privilege of attending my long time friend’s beach-side wedding in York, Maine. Prior to the event, I learned that the ceremony and reception were to be held in a picturesque location, and was also aware that the bride comes from an extremely creative and artistic family. With this knowledge in mind, I anticipated a beautiful event, yet I must say, my expectations were far exceeded.

From the creative DIY save the date card, to the four-tier wedding cake made by the bride’s aunt, this wedding was replete with meticulous detail and custom home-made touches that I only wish I had taken more photos of. Without accompanying photographs, the best way to describe this event is to deem it a perfect blend of casual and elegant. Rather, as exquisite as the ceremony and reception were, in no way could it be called “stuffy.” Perhaps it was the gorgeous ocean front surroundings, or maybe because this event became a high school reunion of sorts (complete with an excellent DJ who took our late 90s/early 2000s requests), but it is safe to safe to say I have never been more impressed with a wedding.

Though I have to give credit to the bride’s family for all of their personal and creative touches, I felt the need to bring attention to one item in particular from the ceremony: the program. As pictured to the right, instead of utilizing a traditional folded program, a custom made, creative, and practical program was used. As one of my good friends described it, this “program on a stick,” is a simple combination of layered single-panel card stock printed on both sides, and a wooden craft stick handle. Perfect for summer or early autumn weddings, this program conveniently serves as a fan for overheated guests! Unfortunately, it was quite chilly and breezy on the evening of my friend’s ceremony, but regardless, I felt the concept was great!

As seen to the left, I decided to put my own spin on this project, making a simple version with two A9 silver Stardream Backing Cards, two white Glider Insert Cards, white Chiffon Ribbon to cover the wooden handle, and a white Self-Adhesive Chiffon Bow to accent. This program was quick and easy to assemble, as all of the card stock layers utilized were already cut to size. All I had to do was type, print, and glue! I was happy with my final product, for utilizing the metallic Stardream stock and chiffon ribbon and bow allowed for the touch of elegance I was after. For something so simple, this program can add a lot of uniqueness and beauty to a ceremony!

With numerous colors and sizes of backing and layering cards and accessories to choose from, the possibilities are endless with this simple, yet creative and practical program!

Thanks, newlyweds, for your great DIY program idea!