Tuesday 06 May 2025
Welcoming your guests is one of the most important parts of your wedding day. It sets the tone for the celebration and shows your loved ones just how much their presence means to you. From thoughtful signage to refreshing pre-ceremony drinks, small touches can make a big difference in ensuring your guests feel valued. At Growwild, located in the heart of the Southern Highlands, our versatile spaces like the barn and marquee provide the perfect setting to create a warm and memorable welcome for your guests. Here are some creative ideas to make your guests feel right at home.
1. Stylish and Personalised Welcome Signage
A beautifully designed welcome sign is the first thing your guests will see when they arrive at your venue. It not only helps guide them but also sets the tone for the day.
Ideas for Welcome Signs:
- Rustic Elegance: Use a wooden sign with hand-painted lettering or calligraphy to complement the charm of Growwild’s barn.
- Modern Chic: Opt for acrylic or mirrored signage with sleek typography, perfect for a marquee wedding.
- Personal Touches: Include your wedding hashtag, a favourite quote, or a personalised message to make guests feel connected to your love story.
Practical Tips:
- Place the sign near the entrance with clear directions to ceremony and reception areas.
- Decorate it with seasonal florals or greenery that ties into your overall wedding theme.
2. Thoughtful Welcome Favours
Welcome favours are a small but meaningful way to show appreciation to your guests. They can be practical, decorative, or simply fun—whatever reflects your personality and theme.
Popular Favour Ideas:
- For Outdoor Weddings: Offer parasols, fans, or mini sunscreen bottles to keep guests comfortable in the Southern Highlands sun.
- Local Touches: Share small jars of local honey from our farm, handmade candles, or lavender sachets sourced from the area.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Potted succulents or seed packets are thoughtful gifts that double as décor and align with sustainable wedding trends.
Place these favours on a dedicated table near the entrance or on each guest’s seat for a delightful surprise.
3. Refreshing Pre-Ceremony Drinks and Snacks
Keep your guests hydrated and energised while they wait for the ceremony to begin with a selection of refreshments. This is especially appreciated during warmer months or longer ceremonies.
Drink Ideas:
- Signature Welcome Champagne: Serve a refreshing champagne to your guests upon their arrival to the ceremony.
- Seasonal Beverages: Offer warm spiced cider or hot chocolate in winter, and chilled lemonade or iced tea in summer.
- Champagne Station: Alternatively, opt for a self-serve champagne station with garnishes like berries or edible flowers for a touch of luxury.
Set up a stylish refreshment station near the entrance or outdoor garden area for guests to enjoy while mingling.
4. Create Comfortable Gathering Spaces
While guests wait for the ceremony to begin, providing comfortable areas for them to relax can make all the difference. At Growwild, our lush gardens and versatile spaces offer plenty of room to create welcoming lounges or shaded seating areas.
Lounge Ideas:
- Rustic Style: Use vintage furniture, rugs, and cushions to create a cosy seating area near the barn.
- Boho Vibes: Incorporate low seating with poufs, throws, and lanterns in the garden.
- Modern Elegance: Opt for sleek, modular furniture and floral arrangements under the marquee.
These gathering spaces not only add to the ambience but also encourage your guests to mingle and enjoy the setting.
5. Interactive Guest Experiences
Engage your guests with interactive elements that make them feel part of the celebration from the moment they arrive.
Creative Ideas:
- Guest Book Alternative: Provide a unique guest book station where guests can leave notes, Polaroid photos, or advice cards.
- Photo Op Area: Set up a photo booth or backdrop near the entrance with props that match your wedding theme.
- Meet-and-Greet Hosts: Assign a bridal party member or family representative to warmly welcome guests and answer any questions.
Interactive experiences not only make guests feel valued but also add a personal and memorable touch to your day.
6. Showcase Your Venue’s Beauty
Use your venue’s unique features to enhance your welcome experience. At Growwild, the natural beauty of the Southern Highlands provides a stunning backdrop for your décor and guest interactions.
How to Highlight Growwild:
- Place your welcome signage at the entrance to the gardens, surrounded by seasonal blooms.
- Use the barn’s rustic architecture as a focal point for photos or a gathering area.
- Incorporate the marquee’s open-air design for a refreshment station with uninterrupted views of the countryside.
By integrating the venue’s charm into your welcome elements, you create a cohesive experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Conclusion
Welcoming your guests is about more than just logistics—it’s about making them feel appreciated and excited to share in your special day. With personalised signage, thoughtful favours, refreshing drinks, and interactive touches, you can create an unforgettable first impression. At Growwild, our versatile spaces and stunning surroundings provide the perfect canvas to bring these ideas to life.
Book Your Tour Today: Ready to plan your dream wedding? Contact us to explore Growwild and see how our venue can help you create a warm and memorable welcome for your guests.