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Gatherings · 3 min read

Keep the sound of being loved.

By To Have & To Hold ·

Opay said 'make a wish'!
Wish granted! 🌠

A photograph holds a face. An audio guestbook can hold the way someone says your name, the story they always tell, or the laughter that arrives halfway through a message. It is a different kind of keepsake to bring into a wedding, birthday or family gathering.

In this story

What is an audio guestbook?

Instead of writing in a book, guests leave a recorded voice message. They might offer a wish, tell a short story or simply say they are happy to be there. The joy is in hearing the person, not in asking them to deliver a perfect speech.

You can enquire about an audio guestbook on its own or alongside our event photo prints. In the booking form, choose the service you are interested in and tell us your event date and location.

Give it a place people can pause.

Look for a spot guests will notice but where they can hear themselves think. Right beside a speaker is usually a difficult place for a quiet message. Discuss the layout and sound with your venue and the guestbook team.

A small sign and a comfortable place to stand or sit can help the space feel welcoming. Make sure guests can reach it easily during the part of the event you want to capture.

A small prompt is enough.

Some people will know exactly what to say. Others will appreciate a question. Keep the invitation short and let a message be a little imperfect.

  • Tell us a memory that still makes you laugh.
  • What would you like us to remember about today?
  • Leave one piece of advice for the next chapter.
  • Say something you would tell us over a cup of tea.

Let someone break the ice.

Ask a friend or family member to leave an early message and invite a few others over. A brief mention during the programme can help guests find the guestbook without interrupting the whole celebration.

Let guests know they are being recorded and what you plan to do with the messages. If you want to share clips publicly later, ask the people in those recordings first.

A few things to confirm before the day.

Choose an audio package in the event enquiry and include how many hours you need. The team can confirm the setup, availability and quote for your date. Ask about the points below before you book.

  • Where the guestbook will sit and whether the location is suitable.
  • Setup and collection times, and who guests can ask for help.
  • How and when recordings will be delivered to you.
  • Whether any editing is included and how files will be organised.
  • How long recordings are retained and how to request removal.

Pair a picture with a voice.

If you are also having instant prints, the photo station and audio guestbook can become two stops in the same little memory-making ritual. A picture for the album; a message to listen to when the day feels far away.

Once the recordings arrive, keep a backup somewhere you can find again. Save them beside your event photos and make a little time to listen together.