Life-size standups (or cardboard cutouts) have become one of the most popular ways to personalize parties, weddings, and milestone celebrations. From oversized head cutouts at birthday parties to elegant foam-core standees at weddings, these displays instantly create memorable, photo‑worthy moments.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how custom standups are used for events, the most popular celebration ideas, and how to choose the right type of standup for your occasion.

What Are Custom Standups?

Custom standups are life-size or oversized cutouts showcasing your photo of choice, printed and mounted on rigid material like foam-core. They can feature:

• Individual faces or full bodies
• Couples or groups
• Branded designs, text, or themed graphics

Because they’re lightweight, affordable, and easy to set up, our custom standups are ideal for both casual parties and formal events.

Why Custom Standups Are Perfect for Celebrations

Custom standups work so well for events because they:

• Instantly grab attention
• Encourage guest interaction and photos
• Add a personal touch without complicated setup
• Double as décor and entertainment

Whether you’re hosting 10 people at home or 300 guests at a venue, a custom standup scales effortlessly.

Popular Party Ideas Using Custom Standups

Birthday Parties

Custom Big Head cutouts are a birthday classic. Popular ideas include:

• Oversized heads of the guest of honor
• Funny expressions or throwback photos
• Age-themed designs ("40 & Fabulous," "Dirty 30," etc.)

They’re perfect near gift tables, dessert stations, or photo areas.

Bachelor & Bachelorette Parties

Life-size standups of the bride or groom are perfect for bachelor and bachelorette parties. Guests also love:

• Carrying Big Head cutouts between venues
• Using them for group photos
• Turning them into inside jokes throughout the night

These standups also make great keepsakes after the party.

Graduation Parties

Celebrate achievements with custom standups featuring:

• Graduation gowns and caps
• School colors and class year text
• Action shots or portraits
• Before vs. After comparisons, featuring a younger version of the grad

They’re a great focal point for photos and family gatherings.

Custom Standups for Weddings

Custom wedding standups are trending in creative and tasteful ways.

Welcome Signs & Entry Displays

Couples often use elegant foam-core standups as:

• Welcome signs at the ceremony entrance
• Photo opportunities near guest books
• Directional signage for receptions

Photo Booth & Reception Fun

Custom standups at weddings can include:

• The bride and groom in fun poses
• Cutouts of pets who couldn’t attend
• "Late-night" standups near dance floors

These displays create natural gathering spots for photos.

Honoring Loved Ones

Some couples use standups to honor:

• Deceased family members
• Loved ones who couldn’t attend

This is a meaningful, visual way to include them in the celebration.

Choosing the Right Material: Cardstock vs Foam-core

Selecting the right material depends on your event style.

Cardstock Big Head cutouts are:

• Lightweight
• Cost-effective
• Ideal for short-term or high-energy parties

Foam-core Huge Head cutouts or standups are:

• More rigid and durable
• Better for formal events like weddings
• Ideal for indoor displays and keepsakes

How Big Should Your Custom Standup Be?

Common sizes include:

• Handheld or table-size cutouts
• Oversized heads for parties
• Life-size standups for entrances and photo areas

Larger standups work best for spacious venues, while smaller cutouts are great for casual gatherings.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

• Choose a high-quality, well-lit photo
• Avoid heavy filters or low-resolution images
• Match the material to your event tone
• Order early to allow time for delivery

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Standups

How far in advance should I order a custom standup for a party or wedding?

Most custom standups are produced within 1–2 business days, but it’s best to order at least one week in advance to account for shipping and event planning.

What type of photo works best for party standups?

Clear, high-resolution photos with good lighting work best. Smartphone photos are usually fine if they’re sharp and not heavily edited.

Are custom standups reusable after the event?

Yes. Many customers reuse standups for future parties, office décor, or keepsakes, especially our foam-core Huge Head cutouts and standups.

Can custom standups stand on their own?

Our standups include an attachable easel or stand, allowing them to stand upright without tools or extra support.

Are custom standups suitable for outdoor events?

Custom standups are designed primarily for indoor use. Short-term outdoor use may be possible in dry, calm conditions, but wind and moisture can affect stability and durability.

Make Your Celebration Unforgettable

Custom standups turn ordinary events into unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, wedding, graduation, or celebration of any kind, personalized cutouts or standups add personality, humor, and lasting memories.

Create your custom cutouts or standups today at BuildaHead.com and make your next celebration stand out.