How to Create a Box of Letters of Advice From Wedding Guests

Since not everybody is likely to stand up with a toast on the day of the wedding, making sure the young couple gets all the much-needed advice and wisdom from guests is a fantastic idea. This craft idea is a wonderful gift and can be a significant memory of the wedding.

Instructions

1. Decorate a box. Get a plain cardboard box and tape wedding-themed wrapping paper to it. This can look like a present in disguise. You could opt for a jewelry box that holds a picture of the young couple. Having letters stashed in this can be a wonderful way to receive them--and ensure that the couple keeps the letters for years to come. Consider the tastes of the couple to make a beautiful box they will treasure.

2. Send out a letter that accompanies the wedding invitation. It should be from someone close to the bride and groom. Involve parents, siblings and best friends in this endeavor. You will need access to the entire guest list. The letter should state that you are looking for letters of advice for the young couple.

3. Include stationery to write the letter to the couple. Have everybody's letter written on the same stationery and enclosed in the same design for the self-addressed stamped envelope. This will create a common theme and will be appropriate to the decor of the wedding. Include at least two sheets for longer letters or possible errors.

4. Let the guests giving wisdom have the option of including a small token like a favorite slogan, quote or book. Advice often takes this form.

5. Place each letter in the box as soon as you receive it. Keep the box safely away from dogs, kids or prying eyes. Don't even open the letters yourself. They should remain sealed until opened by the young couple.

6. Wrap the box up as soon as all letters are received. Make calls or follow-up letters for those who are lagging in response. Let the guests know that this is a no-pressure craft. They should simply write down how they feel. No expectations are being placed on the letters. Imagination should be unleashed.

7. Present the box to the couple on their wedding day. You can do this presentational style, and you can have each person read advice to the couple who wants to do so. It's probably best to let the couple read the letters at their own pace. Keep this true to the personality and preference of the individual couple.

Tips & Warnings

• Be considerate of the couple being married in all the choices you make. While you may want a lot of attention on your wedding day, this couple may not like it.

• Don't forget to include your own advice for the happy couple. This may be the most important of all.