Tips for Gift and Card Table Safety for Philadelphia Weddings
Philadelphia weddings are joyful but not immune to real-world concerns.. It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but, wedding gifts can and do walk away from a wedding reception.
Photo credit: Loews/Angel of Hearts Weddings/Sweetwater Portraits
The gift and card table may seem like a quiet corner of your celebration, but it can easily become a target for the wrong kind of attention. The card box, in particular, can be especially tempting to someone looking to “help themselves.” To get expert insight, we reached out to Wendy Hartigan of Angel of Hearts Weddings, a seasoned Philadelphia wedding planner, who confirmed that gift security is a real concern. “I’ve had couples ask me to keep an eye on guests lingering too long near the gift table,” she shared.
Smart Ways to Safeguard Your Gift and Card Table
To help you avoid any unwanted surprises, here are a few smart ways to keep your wedding gifts safe and sound.
Choose a Secure and Visible Card Box
If your gift or card table is located in a cocktail hour space or a public area like the lobby, it’s essential to use a secure, locked container. While antique birdcages and open-top boxes may be charming, they can be vulnerable. Instead, consider custom-made card boxes that lock and can only be opened by you after the wedding.
Whatever you choose, be sure the card box is clearly visible and placed in a central area, not tucked away in a remote corner. Or worse, positioned near an exit. Visibility at your wedding venue is key to both aesthetics and security.
Keep the Card Box in Sight During the Reception
Once cocktail hour ends, consider relocating the card box to a spot closer to your reception space or sweetheart table. This serves two important purposes: it allows guests to easily hand you cards throughout the evening, and it keeps the box in plain view, reducing the risk of tampering or theft.
Ask for Help with Securing Cards Post-Cocktail Hour
If you’re unable to keep the card box in sight after cocktail hour, ask your wedding planner, venue coordinator, or banquet manager to store it in a secure location. A locked office, a staff-only storage area, or even the bridal suite can be great options. This ensures you still have access to the cards if needed but without compromising security.
Check with Your Venue About Gift Safety Procedures
Many venues already have a standard protocol for securing cards and gifts after cocktail hour. Don’t hesitate to ask your venue manager what they recommend and where they typically store high-value items. No matter what system you choose, the most important thing is making sure your wedding gifts make it home with you at the end of the night.
