If you know me, you’ll remember that I am all about keeping the magic of your wedding day alive as you begin your life together post-wedding. I’ve talked about this a few times in regards to your relationship as husband and wife, but today I want to focus on physical memories of your big day. In this blog post, I’ve compiled some of the most important things you should keep from your wedding to use in your home or keepsake box.

Pictures, of course!

Now, I know this one seems obvious. Pictures are a huge part of your wedding day, so of course you’ll keep them. But as a photographer, I feel that it’s my job to remind you to PRINT and USE those gorgeous wedding photos! There is something magical about printed images that you just can’t get from seeing them on a screen. I promise you won’t regret displaying pictures of your unforgettable wedding memories.

Floral Arrangements

There are SO many fun ways to turn your wedding bouquet into a beautiful keepsake. One of my personal favorites is pressing and preserving your floral arrangement and displaying it in a picture frame. Not only will this make a stunning decor piece, but it will remind you of your special day whenever you see it.

Invitations and save the dates

These are so important to keep. Your wedding invitations are perfect for a keepsake box, where you can easily find them and show to friends, family, and even children down the road. You will love being able to look back on your wedding invitations in the future. If you’re really in love with how your design turned out, try arranging all the pieces from your announcement (save the dates, ceremony card, program) into a frame and displaying it in your home.

Guestbook

These days, guestbooks can be so much more than a hard-bound book with signatures from your guests. But even if the more traditional route is your thing, make sure your guestbook makes it into your keepsake box! Looking back at all the friends and family that supported your big day is so fun for newly married couples. I’ve seen brides create photo albums for their guests to sign, or framed a large picture and had their guests write well-wishes on the edges. Both of those options are perfect for displaying in your home.

Wedding vows

Keeping your wedding vows is an absolute must. They need a unique space in your keepsake box so that you can pull them out and feel all that wedding day magic again. Wouldn’t it be so magical to read your vows back to each other on your wedding anniversary? An excellent alternative to traditional vows is writing your spouse a personal love letter to read on your wedding day. Whichever route you choose, make sure you keep those notes forever.

Decorative Signs

You’ve spent so much time, energy, and money making your wedding day look and feel perfect. Why not continue using your gorgeous decor in your first home? Decorative signs with quotes or phrases you love can also make the perfect piece to fill the walls of your home.

I hope these ideas are helpful to you as you work to preserve your unforgettable wedding memories. What else should we add to this list?