Guest sign-in books are staples at weddings, but they can also be an after thought for many brides. Once the wedding is over, the book goes on the newly weds’ bookcase or shoved in a closet, only to be broken out every few years. In recent weddings, we’ve seen how sign-in books are not only a creative way to get your guest involved, but also show your personal style. Here are a few ideas.

1. Create a poster using your engagement photos – Not only is this a wonderful presentation, but a great way to create a piece of art to hang on your walls. There are many options for creating wall art. You can have your invitation designer or photographer create a poster for you. Or check out Etsy.com. Etsy can give brides different options for designing a fun and unique poster.

2. “Old” Photo Album – In your formal invitation, request that your guests bring a favorite photo of you and them. When your guests arrive they can paste their photos in your book next to their signature. Its a great way to get your guest involved and for you to get a new “old” photo album.

3. Photo Booth Album – Similar to the “old” photo album, but a photo booth picture captures your wedding day. If you are already planning on having a photo booth, ask your guest to leave one of their photo booth pictures with you (most photo booths print out three different pictures at a time). Provide scissors and glue sticks next to the book. You will end up with a book filled with memories of your guest enjoying your wedding.

4. Memory Book – Instead of just having your guest sign their name. Put out colorful note cards for them to write down their favorite memory of the bride and/or groom. At the end of the wedding, you will be able to look back at all the fun times you and your guest had together. And possible a few you forgot!

5. Wedding Tree – Along the same idea as a poster, your guest “leaf ” their finger print and sign their name. You can have a local artist create a leafless tree for you, or find a poster already made on Etsy. Another great website is Istockphotos.com. They have thousands of options from artist all over the world. Buy the photo you like, and take it to your local Kinkos to enlarge it to a poster size.

6. Create your own! Incorporate whatever interest or hobbies you have. If you and your groom met at a baseball game, set out a personalized jersey from your favorite team and have your guest sign it.

Or maybe you both love to cook, have your guest sign a platter. You end up with a fun platter that you can use everyday or for your anniversaries.