When the guests arrive for your big day, a wedding program will fill them in on all of the details they need to know. Although the content and design of the program are up to you and your partner, there are a few critical elements to include when you order from a printing service. Here’s what every wedding program should contain.

The Elements of a Perfect Wedding Program

1. Cover

You'll have a lot of artistic license when it comes to the cover of your program. Some couples prefer to keep the design simple, while others may want to go all-out. If you want to stick to your theme, consider matching the program with the invitations. All covers should include the names of the couple and the date of the ceremony. You might also add a photo, decorative border, or other design details based on the theme.

2. Names, Date, & Location

If you didn't include this information on the cover, be sure to have your printing service list your names, the date, and the time and location of the ceremony early on in the program. This information will turn your program into an excellent souvenir for you or friends and family members who take it home.

3. Wedding Party

Many of your guests won't know every member of the wedding party. Take a page to introduce and thank all of the people involved in your ceremony, including the officiate, your parents, honor attendants, bridesmaids and groomsmen, grandparents, the ring bearer, and the flower girl.

4. Ceremony Outline

The ceremony outline is the portion of the program that varies most between couples. Mainly, you'll want to list the order of events so your guests can follow along. Your outline should include music selections, greetings, readings, the exchanging of vows, the ring ceremony, the pronouncement of marriage, and any other religious or cultural elements.

5. Additional Details

Printings services can also include additional information that may not be covered on other pages. Many couples use these sections to thank guests, explain traditions or specific details of their wedding, add quotes, include a memorial message, or provide directions to the reception. Customizing your program with extra pages adds a special touch to your wedding.

Choose a reliable printing service to deliver beautiful, high quality wedding programs on your big day. Bestype Imaging in Downtown Manhattan provides a wide variety of printing services to cater to all of your imaging needs, from wedding programs and invitations to business cards and brochures. If you need a job done fast, they offer rush printing for your convenience. Browse their products online or call (212) 966-6886 for information about their services.