The traditional guest book has long been a wedding staple, but many couples are discovering that those leather-bound volumes often end up forgotten in storage rather than cherished as keepsakes. Today’s couples are seeking alternatives that serve multiple purposes – interactive experiences that double as décor and create lasting memories and mementos you’ll actually revisit. Whether you’re drawn to vintage aesthetics or cutting-edge technology, there’s an alternative guest book option that reflects your personality and values as a couple.
1. Audio Guest Book (Vintage Rotary Phone)
Picture this: your guests pick up an adorable retro rotary phone and leave you voice messages that range from tear-jerking to absolutely hilarious. Companies rent these out, or you can DIY it if you’re tech-savvy – either way, hearing grandparents voices’ years later? Priceless.
2. Polaroid Photo Guest Book
Instant cameras are having a major moment, and for good reason. Set up a station with fun props, let guests snap a photo, stick it in an album, and scribble a message underneath. You’ll end up with a visual diary of your wedding that’s way more fun to flip through than just signatures. Fujifilm Instax cameras or even 35mm film cameras can give you those perfectly imperfect shots.
3. Fingerprint Tree or Illustration
Guests press their inked fingertips onto a custom print or foam board. There are endless possibilities here, it could be a tree, your city skyline, or even a constellation map, and suddenly you’ve got frameable art for your home.
4. Video Message Booth
Why settle for written words when you can capture your tipsy bridesmaid’s toast on video? Set up an iPad with a ring light (hello, flattering angles) and let guests record messages, advice, and probably some questionable dance moves. Apps like WedBox make it super easy, and you’ll have cinematic gold to watch for years.
5. Vinyl Record Guest Book
Music lovers, this one’s your jam! Have guests sign vinyl records from your favorite era or genre with various colored metallic markers, then frame them for the ultimate retro wall art.
6. Building Block Tower
Who says guest books can’t be games? Oversized Topple Tower pieces become both entertainment during cocktail hour and a keepsake you’ll actually pull out at parties. Guests sign blocks with their messages, and boom, you’ve got a conversation starter that doubles as a game to play for years to come!
7. Globe or Map Guest Book
For the couple experiencing wanderlust, this is chef’s kiss. Guests can sign their hometown or a name dream destination they wish for you to go on a vintage globe or world map. It’s the ideal office or living room décor that reminds you of all the places you’ll go together.
8. Custom Puzzle Guest Book
Guests sign wooden photo puzzle pieces that you assemble later to reveal a photo or design. It’s an activity for rainy Sunday afternoons or future anniversaries when you’re feeling nostalgic.
9. Recipe Card Collection
This is where sentimentality meets practicality! Your guests fill out recipe cards with their favorite recipe or marriage advice, and you compile them into a personalized recipe book. You’ll think of your guests every time you make Aunt Linda’s lasagna or follow someone’s hilariously bad 2-minute noodle cooking instructions.
10. Wishing Stones
River rocks, paint pens, and a cute glass vase: that’s all you need. Guests write wishes or words of wisdom on smooth stones that you can display in a shadow box or bowl. It’s got major bohemian energy and adds a natural, earthy touch to your day.
11. Digital Guest Book (QR Code)
Going paperless? Set up a QR code that guests scan to leave messages, upload photos, or record videos. It’s eco-friendly, super easy to share with family afterward, and apps like Joy or Zazzle make the whole thing seamless. You can check out our article on using them here!
12. Skateboard Sign
Got a hobby that defines you as a couple? Whether it’s skateboarding, surfing, or snowboarding, grab a board and let guests sign it with paint pens.
13. Vintage Typewriter
There’s something romantic about the click-clack of typewriter keys. Set up a vintage typewriter with monogrammed cards or a roll of paper so guests can type out their advice and future desires. It’s retro, it’s charming, and it gives your older relatives major nostalgia points.
14. Living Guest Book (Potted Plants)
This one’s a two-for-one deal: guest book and wedding favor. Guests write their names on plant markers stuck in small succulents or herbs, then take them home. As the plants grow, your friends will remember your special day, and you’ve done something good for the planet!
15. Signature Quilt or Fabric Squares
Fabric squares, fabric markers, and a vision – that’s your recipe for a cozy heirloom. Guests decorate squares that you (or a crafty friend) sew into a blanket or throw pillows after the wedding. Every time you snuggle up with it, you’re literally wrapped in love from your people.
Choosing What’s Right for You
Here’s the thing, your guest book should be as unique as your relationship. Whether you go high-tech with a digital option or keep it crafty with a DIY option, the best choice is whatever makes you excited to look at it years down the road. These alternatives add personality to your celebration while giving you something you’ll actually use or display. So ditch the boring book and pick something that tells your story!
Don’t forget, once you’re nailed down your guest book, don’t stop there! Check out our guide on Wedding Day Keepsake Box Ideas to learn what other mementos are worth saving from your big day. And, if you’re loving the idea of personalized touches, our article on Wedding Branding will show you how to create a cohesive look across every detail of your celebration.
Meg is a Content Specialist at Zazzle in Cork. Born and bred Corkonian. An avid animal lover with two cats named Beamish and Biscuit, a dog named Fudge, a fish called Panda and a fiancé called Leigh. Favorite pastimes include wearing anything animal print, vintage and charity shopping, venturing down the rabbit-hole on niche conspiracy theories, reading books and board games.
I’m liking the idea of a “date night” idea jar where guests write ideas on little cards, and put them in a special tin or jar. A friend also had guests sign a large blank photo mat. At the wedding, it had a favorite photo of the couple inside. After, the printed a wedding photo at the same size and hung it in their house. Almost 20 years later, it still looks great, and they walk by it every day!