What should they look like?

When considering which type of invitations to buy, remember that you have more than just the invites to consider. There are also stationery items you require for your needs, you will want them to have some form of continuity between them. Ordering them all at once is a great way of keeping everything in sync and saving money.

Style

The most typical way of choosing a style for your invitation reflect your personal style that will stand out is as challenging as shopping for new clothes, or decorating a house.

Lettering

As for the lettering, black or gray engraving is traditional. It is also the most expensive method of lettering. For those without a lot of money to spare, thermography is the traditional alternative. Calligraphy is another option if you have a small guest list. Finally, offset printing is a method used for colored text and for lettering on heavily textures card stock.

Parts of the Invitation

When it comes to the physical lay out of the envelopes, is that you should always order extras in case of mistakes! Don't forget that they should be addressed by hand or sent to the calligrapher! The kosher, or halal possibilities. By checking off a box or filling in a spot on the card you can get an idea of what you'll need to have the caterer prepare. Finally, if you have an itinerary for a weekend wedding, include some of the activities that you might have so you can see who would be interested in what. Finally, you might consider including maps, directions, hotel info, and an itinerary if needed. Something that you shouldn't include? Gift registry information. This is considered in very bad taste to include! People will ask about the registry, don't worry.

Who do you send them to?

You've made the invite someone who you'd rather not have at your wedding. Those who you thought of, but who you can't or don't want to invite, can get a wedding announcement after the wedding has taken place. The number of invites you'll need is to simply divide the number of guests you're having (especially if the number is large). If you need more, you can always order more. Don't forget to keep one for yourselves.

When do you send them?

Order in advance! It takes time to order, see a sample, check the wording, send the proof back, and then have them printed and sent to you. It also takes additional time to have a calligrapher address the envelopes (up to two weeks or more for 100 envelopes). Usually three to four months is sufficient time to give yourself for ordering invitations. If you have guests coming from out of town, or if you are having a destination wedding, you might be in need of savetowners. Six to eight weeks prior notice is average for all other guests.

Where do you get them?

There are many places to go to when shopping for wedding invitations. You can even do it yourself! Don't just assume though that this will be the least expensive method, since you will spend time working on the design and money on the paper and printing. However, the invited will be truly one of a kind. Less labor intense options call for hiring someone else to take care of the dirty work. * '''Graphic Designer''' lace'>invitations yourself, except they'll probably look better. * '''Independent Stationer''' organic'>invitations and stationery with formal engraving and other specialties, but for a little bit more money. That is what you pay for quality and originality all in one place. Just keep in mind that the time is takes a small shop to create custom stationery is usually longer than it would take a big department store or other more generic entity to make and print your invitations. * '''Large Stationers''' and pick your favorite. * '''Department Store''' end stationery. This is a great option if you are planning a formal wedding with all the trimmings. * '''Online Store''' Kit'>invitations before committing. Even if the company charges a fee, suck it up and do it. Most often they refund that money anyway. When checking your proofs, be very certain that you have written the text correctly. Sites will print whatever you give them even if you have made a huge mistake. Finally, be careful that the site is a reputable one.

Invitation Themes

Suggestions and inspiration for your wedding invitations.

Major Manufacturers

* Reaves Engraving Recommended by InStyle Weddings magazine. All types of fancy lettering available. * Paper Love Invitations Handmade stationery and unique box invitations. * Photo Wow Use your own photos to make unique cards, including card collages.

Related Guides

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see: ! ES: Invitaciones de boda

Wedding Invitations