02/18/2023
I really wanted a special wedding that incorporated the interests of both my wife and I. So I took my love of woodworking and my wife’s passion for books, and created this special edition to our wedding. I wanted to be different, very unique, but memorable. I could have easily ordered a custom Etsy sign with everyone’s name and table number, but of course that would have been too easy. Instead, I built a custom library seating chart!!📚
This “library” consisted of a wooden crate bookcase filled with individually handcrafted custom wooden books. These books had everyone’s last name painted on the bind and the volume number of the book translated to your table number. Simple…I know lol
As a guest, you walked into the reception found your book in the bookcase and the volume number directed you to your table. Once you arrived at your table, you found black wooden rods which lined the table at different heights and woven with fresh eucalyptus and greenery. Your wooden book had a small opening at the bottom for the top of the rod to lock into. The big picture came together as everyone’s books filled in and became a floating book effect which evolved into our gorgeous table centerpieces.
Inside the golden latched lid of the box was eucalyptus and a custom written note that fit snug inside corner frame slots. As part of our reception, we offered a Polaroid photo booth in which your photo replaced the note in the book. As a token of appreciation, the custom book was yours to keep and take home with you. 🌱 📘📗📕
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Although I developed new ways to perfect this idea as the build went on, I’m very happy with how my original concept turned out. I think it was a wonderful blend of both of our worlds.
Did it take probably 100 hours?…yes
Did it drive me crazy to hand install around 600 tiny screws?…yes
Did I design, hand cut, and paint EVERY single piece of this puzzle?….yes
Did it turn out beautiful and am I incredibly happy did it? ABSOLUTELY!
PS: My wife hand painted ALL the names and numbers!! I could not have done this without her love, support, and patience! She’s the real hero ♥️
