Does the idea of adding your guestbook to your book shelf just so it can collect dust drive you bonkers? I can't even stand the idea of keeping books, other than reference books, so there was no way I was adding my memories to my shelf. There are many ways to get creative and do something different for your guestbook. Tired of the framed picture with all the signatures? Are you really going to hang that in your home? If you want something that will last, but with a little different spin consider turning to different materials. Wine glasses, corks, rocks, votive candle holders, plates could all work and be a very creative element in your wedding. I like the idea of having daily reminders of not only my wedding day, but all the people who shared in our day and our lives.
I am an avid gardener, spending most of my sunny days cultivating my Los Angeles urban garden so rocks seemed the obvious choice for my guestbook. I bought a 50lb bag of decorative river rocks from my local hardware store (about $40). Note: the river rocks need to be washed before guests sign them because they are very dusty. I also bought some smaller river rocks for those guests who weren't ready to commit to the big rocks. I purchased fine point gold paint pens for guests to add there notes to the rocks. I displayed the rocks in different glass containers with a frame that read, "Please sign our "guestbook" because our friendships like these stones will last a lifetime".
Downside, for my husband only, we will be toting around 50+ pounds of rocks for the rest of our lives.
