14 Creative Ways to Use Books as Wedding Décor

Embrace your inner bookworm with these fun ideas for escort cards, centerpieces, favors and ceremony accents.
parker butler the knot bridal style expert
by
Parker Butler
parker butler the knot bridal style expert
Parker Butler
Bridal Style Expert
  • Parker Butler is an Account Executive at Lou Hammond Group.
  • Parker has experience in editorial, broadcast, and public relations work.
  • Parker worked for The Knot as a Digital Editorial Intern.

Don't leave your favorite books on the shelf while you celebrate—incorporate them into your wedding for décor that's fun, eclectic and personal. Take your book theme to the next level by saying "I do" in a renovated library, eating dinner in your favorite bookstore or styling your place cards like library cards. Start celebrating the newest chapter of your life with these creative book-themed wedding details.

1. Centerpiece Stacks

Book wedding centerpieces with flowers
James & Jess

Stack your favorite hardbacks for a sturdy centerpiece base, then top them with whimsical blooms and lots of greenery.

From: A Whimsical Garden Wedding at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California

2. Books for the Ring Bearer

Ring bearer wedding ceremony book ideas
David Walters Photography

Instead of having him carry a traditional pillow, have your ring bearer walk down the aisle with your favorite book.

From: A White and Gold Wedding at Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine, Florida

3. "Table of Contents" Ceremony Program

Book-inspired wedding program
Michael Segal Weddings

Your wedding program is a great opportunity to show off your book theme.

From: An Elegant Literary-Themed Wedding at Cafe Pinot in Los Angeles, California

4. Book Jacket Place Cards

Book-themed place cards for wedding reception
Lens Cap Productions

If you don't want to include real books at your reception, opt for cardstock or post cards of your favorite book covers for your place cards.

From: A Rustic, Bookish Wedding at Gramercy Park Hotel in New York City

5. Volumes as Favors

Book wedding décor
Brittrene Photography

Check in your area for local bookstores and libraries that offer free books you can present as wedding favors. Your guest will appreciate the thoughtful gesture as well as a good read.

6. Dinner in a Bookstore

Vintage library wedding venue

With low lighting and simple décor, a vintage-inspired bookstore or library provides the ultimate setting for an intimate wedding.

From: A Vintage, Winter Wedding at Housing Works Bookstore Cafe in New York City

7. Library Checkout Escort Cards

Book-inspired escort cards
A Guy + A Girl Photography

As a fun nod to the library setting, use book checkout cards for your seating assignments instead of traditional escort cards.

From: A Modern, Fun Wedding at Boston Public Library in Boston, Massachusetts

8. Eclectic Centerpieces

Whimsical book-themed wedding decor

Add vintage books to your centerpieces for textural variety and a touch of whimsy.

From: An Ultra-Chic, Romantic, Whimsical Wedding at Dunafon Castle in Idledale, Colorado

9. Spiral Book Archway

Archway made of books
Yes, Dear. Studio

If you really want to wow your guests, create an archway made of donated hardback books and place it at your reception entrance.

From: A Literary-Inspired Garden Wedding at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California

10. Open Pages

Whimsical book-inspired wedding centerpieces
Loie Photography

Place your favorite volumes open faced on the tables.

From: A Whimsical Backyard Wedding at a Private Residence in Chelsea, Michigan

11. Library Card Catalog

Book-themed wedding seating chart idea
Lens Cap Productions

Let guests find their seating assignments on library cards displayed in a vintage card catalog.

12. Book Table Numbers

Book table numbers wedding reception
Jen Fariello Photography

Choose a few of your favorite series to use as table numbers.

From: A Lavish, Sophisticated Wedding at a Private Residence near Charlottesville, Virginia

13. Novel-Inspired Ceremony Programs

Book-inspired ceremony programs
Yes, Dear. Studio

Customize your favorite book covers for adorable and unique ceremony programs or invitations.

From: A Literary-Inspired Garden Wedding at Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California

14. Book Towers

Book centerpieces wedding reception
Katelyn James Photography

Use books and other meaningful details, like a globe, to highlight the center of your tables. Trust us, you won't even miss the flowers.

From: A Rooftop Spring Wedding at Foundation for the Carolinas in Charlotte, North Carolina

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