Are you looking for something special to mark the occasion of your wedding or special event? If so, consider an audio guest book. With an audio guest book at your celebration, you’ll have a unique way to capture heartfelt messages and special memories from all of your loved ones. Plus, it is a fun activity that both young and old can participate in – making it an exciting addition to your event. Read on to learn about:

• What are they
• Features to look out for
• Best way to use them
• Best Audio Guest book services


What is an audio guest book?

An audio guest book is a digital recording device that allows guests to leave messages and well wishes at an event. Instead of writing in a traditional guest book, guests can speak into the device and record their message. This creates a unique and interactive way for guests to leave their mark on your special occasion. Audio guest books are becoming increasingly popular at weddings, birthdays, and other special events, as guests don't find them intimidating, and hosts love hearing the personalised well wishes. 

 

How does an audio guest book work?

An audio guest book works by providing a digital recording device for guests to leave messages. The device is typically set up in a central location at the event, such as near the entrance or on a designated table. Guests can approach the device and record their message using a built-in microphone. Some audio guest books also have a video option, allowing guests to record a video message instead. We find the best audio guests books also have a remote dial in option. Such as Life on Record. So guests who can't attend the event or wedding, can call from anywhere and leave a personal message. After the event, the recordings can be compiled and saved as a keepsake for the host. Some Audio Guest Book services even have special made physical devices to play back the messages, such as digital box speakers, or even a vinyl record!

Five different coloured metal boxes with buttons are stacked on top of each other. Written on the side of them is the text "Kind hearts deserve loving voices". 

What are the benefits of using an audio guest book?

There are alot of benefits to using an audio guest book at your event. Firstly, it provides a unique and interactive way for guests to leave messages and well wishes. Guests, often feel put on the spot with roaming videographers. By having a private space, guests can open up and leave a more personalised and authentic message. Additionally, the recordings can serve as a special keepsake for the host to cherish and listen to for years to come. It can even be passed on to children and family members. Finally, an audio guest book can add a fun, creative and memorable activity to your event. 

 


How can you incorporate an audio guest book into your event?

There are a few different ways to incorporate an audio guest book into your event. One option is to set up a designated area with a microphone and recording device where guests can leave their messages. Another option is to have a host or hostess with a portable recording device who can approach guests and ask if they would like to leave a message. You can also provide prompts or questions for guests to answer, such as sharing a favorite memory or offering advice for the future. Whatever method you choose, make sure to let your guests know about the audio guest book in advance so they can plan accordingly.

 

Wedding couple are on a vintage black telephone talking into it


What are some tips for using an audio guest book effectively?

To make the most of your audio guest book, consider the following tips:

  1. Provide clear instructions and prompts for guests to follow. This will help ensure that the messages left are meaningful and relevant to your event. Some services allow you to leave a recorded message your guests hear before they left their voice mail.
  2. Choose a location that is quiet and free from distractions to ensure good sound quality.
  3. Assign someone to manage the recording process and ensure that all messages are captured.
  4. Consider hiring a professional to edit and compile the messages into a final product that you can keep as a memento of your event.
  5. Finally, don't forget to thank your guests for participating and leaving messages in your audio guest book.

 

Determine the Purpose and Type of Event.

Before choosing an audio guest book, it’s important to consider the purpose and type of event you’re hosting. Is it a wedding, a corporate event, or a birthday party? The type of event will help determine the style and features of the audio guest book. For example, a wedding may require a more elegant and formal design, many audio guest books have phone style options, such as retor or art deco vintage. While a birthday party may require a more playful and colorful audio guest book and setting. Additionally, the purpose of the event may influence the type of messages you want guests to leave in the audio guest book. Keep these factors in mind when selecting the perfect audio guest book for your event.

 Hands raised toasting wine with gold confetti

Consider the Size and Location of the Event.

If you’re hosting a small gathering in a cozy venue, a compact and portable audio guest book may be the best option. On the other hand, if you’re hosting a large event in a spacious venue, a larger and more robust audio guest book may be necessary to capture all the memories. Additionally, consider the location of the event. If it’s outdoors, make sure the audio guest book is weather-resistant and has a long battery life. If it’s in a noisy environment, look for an audio guest book with noise-cancelling features to ensure clear recordings.

 

Decide on the Recording Method.

Another important factor to consider when choosing an audio guest book is the recording method. Some audio guest books may require guests to speak directly into a handset or microphone, while others may have a built-in microphone that captures audio from a distance. Additionally, some audio guest books may offer the option to record video messages as well. Consider the preferences and comfort of your guests and the type of memories you want to capture when deciding on the recording method for your audio guest book.

 

Choose the Right Features and Customizations.

Some audio guest books may offer the ability to add custom branding or logos, while others may have different color options to match your event theme. Additionally, some audio guest books may offer the option to add music or sound effects to the recordings. A number allow you to make a pre-recorded message, so your guests can hear your message, before they leave one of their own. Consider the features and customizations that are important to you and your event when making your selection.

 Vintage Black Telephone with handset on the ground. A posing figure stands over the top of it.

Look for Quality and User-Friendly Design.

When choosing an audio guest book, it’s important to prioritize quality and user-friendly design. Look for a product that is made with high-quality materials and has a durable construction to ensure that it will last for years to come. Additionally, consider the ease of use for both you and your guests. A user-friendly design will make it easy for guests to leave messages and for you to access and listen to those messages later on. Don't sacrifice quality or ease of use for a lower price, as investing in a high-quality audio guest book will ensure that you capture memories that will last a lifetime. 

Now that you know what's important when choosing the right model for your event, let's take a looks at some of the best audio book options available for different types of events. 

 

Which is the Best Audio Guest book for my event?

An audio guest book can be a unique and memorable way to capture the voices and well wishes of your guests at a special event. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. We've compiled a list of the top 5 audio guest books from trusted brands to help you make your decision. The best Audio Guests Books are

Life on Record

At the Beep

Flash Bulb Photo Booth

As a wildcard we've included an amazing DIY option

1. Life on Record

homepage of the website Life on Record Audio Guest Book

Life on Record is the perfect way to create an audio guest book for your special occasion, birthday or wedding. It's a simple, fun and unique way to capture beautiful memories, special moments and heartfelt messages from your loved ones. You can easily collect audio recordings from guests anywhere in the world, and create a beautiful collection of audio recordings that can be easily shared and enjoyed. All you have to do is sign up, invite your guests and share the link or phone number for them to call. Alternatively, guests can then record their audio messages directly at the event, and use retro or vintage telephones for example, as a fun way for your guests to leave messages during the reception.

You can also choose to make your audio guest book private or public so that you can share it with the world. Life on Record also makes it easy to manage and organize your audio recordings so that you can easily find a particular recording whenever you need it. With Life on Record, you can create the perfect audio guest book that's full of wonderful memories and heartfelt messages

2. At the Beep

Website home landing page of At the Beep Audio Guest Book

The At the Beep audio guest book is a modern take on the classic GPO phone design, with a range of fun retro colors to choose from. It's easy to use - simply turn it on and start recording messages from your guests. They save every message as its own individual voicemail, and provide both audio and video files for easy sharing. Plus, you get to keep the At the Beep for the entire weekend, so you won't miss out on any pre- or post-event messages. And when you're done, just use the included prepaid satchel to send it back. Within a day or so, you'll receive a gallery of all the messages - perfect for honeymoon listening! Currently available in the US, UK, Australia and New Zealand


3. Flash Bulb Photo Booth


Website Photobooth Audio Guest Book full landing home page

The Flash Bulb Photo Booth's audio guest book is a vintage-inspired phone that offers a range of features to make your event unforgettable. You can customize the voicemail message that guests hear before recording their own message, and after the event, you'll receive a hosted online gallery with all the playable and shareable mp4 files, along with the raw audio files. The messages are unfiltered and have unending replay value, making them a cherished keepsake. If you want to add some personality to the phone, you can upgrade the standard black shell to your preferred color for a small fee. 

4. DIY - Do it yourself

Close up of a vintage phone taken apart and two hands are adjusting the wiring inside

There are a number of steps to create a DIY guest audio book, however if you love tinkering and have access to a soldering iron, this could be the best option for you to make something very unique and personal. Checkout the excellent guide from 'Playful Technology' on You Tube. 

Memories for life.

An audio guest book is an excellent option to capture romantic memories and cherished well wishes. They offer a way of unifying wedding guests in the moment, no matter where they are. Audio guest books also serve as a keepsake that can be cherished for years to come. Can you imagine hearing your grandparents' voice on your 25th Wedding Anniversary? That would undoubtedly make it extra special. Not only will you have a tangible item of your guests’ well wishes but also something that has longevity past the standard written notes or cards. 

Motion Stamp creates beautiful online invitations that can add a link to your 'Life on Record' audio guest book from the personal webpage we create for you. Making a seamless and truly personal experience. View our online invitation collection today.