The cynics say that once you've been to one wedding, you've been to them all. There is of course a risk of being too similar to other weddings simply because we all tend to fall back on all the traditional trimmings.

Make sure your wedding is personal by making these gorgeous place cards to use at your reception.

Charlene Wittstock included a variety of proudly South African touches when she became the princess of Monaco. Here’s how you can do the same.

These gorgeous cards can be used to name your tables or as place cards for your guests

What to use

White paint and paintbrush

Round pieces of wood (one for each table) with small hole in the centre for a stick to fit through

Kebab (sosatie) sticks (one for each wooden block)

Glue gun

Heart-shaped paper clips (available at craft stores)

Pen

Cardboard pieces cut into shapes

Flower and ribbon

How to do it

Paint the wood blocks and sticks. When the paint is dry use the glue gun to secure the sticks in the blocks. Glue paper clips to the sticks. Attach cardboard pieces, each with a number, name of a place or guest name written or printed on it.

Finish it off

Glue the flower and ribbon to the card.

Get more ideas and suggestions in YOU Magazine and Huisgenoot's first wedding and bridal guide which features recent celebrity weddings, savings tips, DIY advice, honeymoon destinations, and more.