How to Make a Fancy Donation Box for a Wedding

Guests can drop cards in a donation box instead of gifting the couple a present.

Many newlyweds place a donation box or card box near the wedding present table at the reception. This allows guests, who did not bring a gift, to slip their card into the slot for the couple to take home. The card can contain money for the newlyweds, so the box must be secure and stable so nothing falls out. Skip purchasing a fancy donation box by creating your own from items around your home or purchased at a craft supply store.

Things You'll Need

• 1 large box, at least 24-by 24-inches
• Shiny white wrapping paper
• Ruler
• Pen
• Craft knife
• 4-by-6-inch lightweight frame
• Paint
• Brush
• 4-by-6-inch photo
• Super glue
• 1 1/2-inch shiny black ribbon
• Scissors
• 2 9-inch faux pearl strands
• 3 faux red roses

Instructions

1. Wrap the large box with shiny white wrapping paper. The guests will see the wrapping paper, so keep the lines clean and the tape minimal.

2. Draw a slit that is 6 inches long by 1 inch wide on the top-center of the box. This will ensure an envelope of any size can fit easily through the slot without getting stuck. Cut the slit out with a craft knife to ensure a clean slice.

3. Paint the lightweight frame a color that coordinates with the wedding, such as red, pink or yellow. Allow the frame to dry completely prior to framing the photo.

4. Frame an engagement photo or candid shot of the couple in the lightweight frame. If the frame is too heavy, remove the backing, and glue or tape the edges of the photo to the edges of the frame. Use a steady hand to avoid glue marks on the front of the photo.

5. Drape black ribbon over the top of the box and under it until the two ends meet at the bottom. It is OK if the ribbon covers the top slit. Cut the ribbon, glue the two ends to the bottom of the box, and then cut the ribbon at the slit. Apply a small amount of super glue to the ends of the ribbon, and tuck them inside the slit. Hold until the ribbon bonds to the box.

6. Turn the photo over to expose the back of the frame, and spread glue around the edges. Turn the photo back around, and press it onto the front-center of the box. The frame will sit directly in the center of the black ribbon. Hold the frame into place until it is completely bonded to the box.

7. Drape the strands of pearls across the top left side of the box. The strands should hang loosely over the edges. Stagger the strands so they are hanging uneven over the edges and secure with glue.

8. Cut the stems off of three red roses, and discard. Center one red rose at the corner of the left side of the box, over the top of the pearls and glue. Arrange the other two roses along the right corner, and glue.

Tips & Warnings

• Place a person in charge of the box to ensure no one tampers with it throughout the reception.

• Insert your hand into the top slit, and rip the material to open the box.

• Use caution when cutting the top slit with the craft knife. Always cut the slit away from your body to avoid cutting your fingers or hand.