Which One is Actually Better? A Review of the Differences Between Guest Books, Guest Registers, and Guest Cards*

2019.08.12 published

What's the Difference Between a Guest Book, Guest Card, and Name Book?

Do you clearly understand the differences between the necessary items at the reception: "Name Book," "Guest Book," and "Guest Card"?

At wedding venues, planners might say, "Please prepare a guest book," or "Do you need a name book?"

You may have seen posts from experienced brides on Instagram such as, "I prepared this item instead of a guest book!" or "I'll enclose a guest card with the invitation."

But in reality, what is a name book? Is it different from a guest book? When do you use a guest card? There are probably many brides who have these questions.

So, today let's introduce the differences between a name book, guest book, and guest card♩

《What are Name Books and Guest Books》

First, let's talk about name books and guest books＊

Name books and guest books are the same thing.

In Japanese, it’s called a name book, and in English, it’s referred to as a guest book, but they refer to the same item◎

Guests write their names (and possibly addresses) in the name book or guest book.

It's a common practice to give a monetary gift at the wedding reception and have your name written in the name book♩

@373momowed

Recently, instead of a book-style name book, it seems that items other than book styles, like a wedding tree, are often used as substitutes＊

While it’s rare to revisit the book-style name book, if you use a wedding tree or a large paper to collect messages and display them, it can serve as a constant reminder of your wedding♩

@mayu_happywedding

《What is a Guest Card?》

In contrast, a guest card is a card that is enclosed with the wedding invitation.

It has spaces for name, address, and messages, which guests fill out before the wedding day and then present on the day of the wedding at the reception.

Writing in a name book on the wedding day can be time-consuming, which often leads to congestion at the reception.

Therefore, many brides who expect a large number of guests or have smaller reception spaces tend to choose guest cards♩

Additionally, using guest cards allows guests to take their time to write messages comfortably at home, which is another nice point◎

@kt_710wedding

Which is Better: Name Book & Guest Book or Guest Card?

The name book and guest book, where guests write on the spot, or guest cards that are filled out before the wedding and brought to the venue.

Both have their advantages, so choose the method that suits you best♩

☑ I want to minimize the burden on guests: Only a name book (book style)

☑ I want something memorable: Only a name book (not book style)

☑ There are many older guests, so I want to keep the name book (book style) but also want an item: Both name book (book style and not book style)

☑ For weddings with over 100 guests: Either a name book (book style) or guest cards

☑ I want guests to enjoy the wedding day without hassle: Guest cards

Whether to choose a name book or guest cards depends on the number of guests and the flow and location of the wedding.

Envision the wedding day and the kind of wedding you want to have and make your decision♩

@m.miumiu06

Let's Prepare a Name Book, Guest Book, and Guest Card＊

We introduced the differences between a name book, guest book, and guest card＊

Wedding items can often be unfamiliar. It’s hard to know what is necessary and what isn't...!

☑ A name book and guest book are the same thing

☑ A guest card is for filling out before the wedding

Keep these two points in mind as you proceed with your wedding preparations♩