Weddings can be extremely expensive affairs. Very expensive. Have you started to price everything yet? And the same goes for wedding invitations. Do if your wedding is to be done on a budget you need to find some good discount wedding invitations to help you stick to the budget.
Everything just seems to cost more than you could ever expect it to when you have a wedding. Not only is it the wedding invitations, but everything. If you haven't started planning your budget and doing some pricing yet you're in for a shock. Wait till you see what wedding flowers cost, for example.
Of course there are those to whom the cost of the wedding doesn't make that much difference. They can afford whatever it costs. But for the mere mortals like you and me the cost of a wedding is a major issue. And when it comes to choosing the wedding invitations you need to find great, but discount, wedding invitations.
Now that's not to say they should be tacky or cheap looking. You can always find good looking discount wedding invitations if you know where to look. There's plenty of options to buy invitations for weddings that look every bit as good as their more expensive cousins, but which won't break the bank.
But before you buy your wedding invitations, discount or not, you need to think of a few things. Remember that the invitation is the first thing most of your guests will see of your wedding, so it needs to say what you want it to say.
So you need to know what wording you're going to use. What do you plan to tell your prospective wedding guests? How will you say it?
And you need to choose the style of invitation to fit with the style of your planned wedding too. If you want to have a wedding with a country and western theme then it certainly helps to choose invitations that have a great country and western theme too. Choose your wedding invitations after you have some of the basic wedding planning done, so you know more about what you want your invitations to say.
And remember it's not just the wedding invitations that need to be sourced either. With each invitation you need to supply a RSVP card and a stamped envelope too. And of course it doesn't hurt to source some great, cheap, RSVP cards either.
So remember, do some of your wedding planning before you start choosing your wedding invitations. Choose your wedding theme, and make some plans, then choose invitations that match your theme.
Where do you find great discount wedding invitations? Online is where. Just about everything is cheaper online now. Why? Because overheads are much cheaper online.
A traditional wedding shop has to pay for expensive overheads, particularly real estate. The shop owner has to buy or rent a store in a great location, near the customers, and this costs a lot. Suppliers for online businesses though don't need anything more than somewhere to store stock, and this can be anywhere cheap. So overheads are lower for online sales.
And online there's no need for staff, other than the minimum.
So you get the cheapest and best discount wedding invitations online. And believe me, when you start to add up the costs of a wedding, you'll be happy to find wedding supplies at the best prices possible.
Because weddings aren't cheap.
Discount Wedding Invitations, for Weddings on a Budget
Wedding Invitations Explained. How to Make the Best First Impression
So you're getting married? Congratulations. You've got plenty of wedding planning in front of you, and decisions to make. And one of those decisions is about your wedding invitations.
Remember that the first impression that your guests get about your planned wedding is the moment they open your wedding invitation. And for some it may even be the first time they know you're getting married if you've kept it a little quiet.
So your wedding invitation has quite a role to play in your wedding. And some people, when they open up the letter and take out the invitation, will make up their mind about coming right there. So you want a wedding invitation that makes a good first impression.
The best piece of advice I can give you about buying your wedding invitations is to do so after you've got some basic wedding planning in place. It's important, for example, to have your wedding theme in mind when choosing your invitations.
It's important that your wedding theme be reflected in your invitation. For example if the bride and groom are gardening enthusiasts and want to have a wedding with a garden theme then wedding invitations with images of flowers or gardens would make a fine first impression about your wedding theme, but invitations with boats, or example, wouldn't.
So do some simple wedding planning first, and once you know more about your basic wedding theme, then choose your invitations.
And think about your workding too. You want the wording of your invitation to reflect your wedding theme and your own hopes for how the day will be.
And there's some other things to think about too. Should you use electronic wedding invitations? There are some people now happy to use electronic wedding invitations, particularly those amongst us a little younger.
However I'd advise against using electronic wedding invitations. Although they have one major advantage, being cheap, they also have disadvantages. There will always be some people who will find an electronic wedding invitation a little tacky. Or a lot tacky. Even some of the younger members of the community have a strong sense of the traditions of weddings, and may well find receiving an electronic wedding invitation to be a little disappointing.
If you're on a budget and considering electronic wedding invitations because they are cheap there are always ways to find great looking cheap wedding invitations way cheaper than at the prices you'll find for invitations from wedding stores.
Online wedding invitations are very cheap, if you buy in the right place, and they aren't cheap looking tacky invitations either. There are some very good wedding invitations available online way cheaper than you'd expect.
So when it comes to wedding invitations remember. Do some planning before you choose your invitations, including what wording you want. Think of your theme, and how you would like your proposed wedding guests to feel the moment they see your invitation. Avoid electronic wedding invitations, despite the fact that they are cheap.
And if you're on a budget, and who isn't these days, buy your wedding invitations online. You'll be surprised at the cheap wedding invitations you can find online.
Yes You Can Create Beautiful Wedding Invitations on a Limited Budget
Planning a wedding can be hard - and expensive. These days it is not unusual for weddings to cost thousands - or even tens of thousands - of dollars, and even seemingly small expenses can easily get out of control. Keeping one eye on the ceremony and one eye on the budget can be quite difficult, and it is important for anyone planning a wedding to set - and stick to - a realistic budget.
Fortunately there are some ways budget conscious brides and grooms can save money without skimping on their dream wedding. Some elements of the wedding, like the wedding invitations, lend themselves well to cost cutting. With a little bit of planning and some creativity you can find wedding invitations that fit your needs and your budget.
Simply shopping around can save you a great deal of money on the wedding invitations you need. These days wedding invitations are available in a variety of different stores, including such diverse venues as department stores and office supply warehouses. By shopping around and doing some smart comparison shopping brides and grooms can get some stunningly beautiful wedding invitations at a bargain price.
When shopping around for the perfect wedding invitations it is important to not overlook the power of the internet. There are many online sources of wedding invitations, and they can often offer prices that are very competitive with their brick and mortar counterparts. Shopping for wedding invitations online can save time as well as money, and many harried wedding planners find it very convenient to order their favorite wedding invitations with just the click of a mouse.
For those who want to save even more money do it yourself wedding invitations may be the answer. . There are many wonderful do it yourself wedding invitations on the market, ranging from the simplest wedding invitations to the most elaborate. If you have a creative spirit and a flair of style you may want to try your hand at making your own wedding invitations. Not only will you save money but chances are you will have lots of fun as well.
One of the great things about making your own wedding invitations is the fact that you are free to add your own creative touches to those invitations. For instance, you could add some pressed and dried flowers in your wedding colors to your invitations as a preview of the beautifully decorated church and reception hall. Or you could add some special photographs of you and your spouse to be. You could even create a photo CD or special slideshow for your guests. These special touches can take even the most ordinary wedding invitations and transform them into precious keepsakes your guests will cherish long after the wedding is over.
And best of all these special wedding invitations can be created with even the most limited budget. No matter how casual or formal your wedding celebration may be, the right wedding invitations can make a big difference. So let your style and your creativity show through by choosing the perfect wedding invitations for your big day.
Handmade Wedding Invitations for That Personal Touch
Every bridal couple has their own distinct vision of what their perfect wedding day would look like and the style of wedding invitations they would like to send out to their guests. Some bridal couples want handmade invitations that are exceptionally elegant and sophisticated to match their similarly planned wedding reception whereas others prefer traditional all-white handmade wedding invitations as an introduction to their traditional all-white wedding reception.
Other handmade invitation styles run the gamut from elaborate and artsy to contemporary and casual; each style unique and distinctive, unlike run-of-the-mill store-bought wedding invitations where the only difference likes in the details of the wedding.
What makes handmade wedding invitations so special?
Anyone can go to a store and buy ready-made wedding invitations; the only deciding factor being the budget. A bridal couple with a higher wedding budget can go ahead and buy the most expensive invitations they can find whereas a bridal couple with a more restricted budget would have to spend some extra time looking for something cheaper. However, no matter how much you may spend on ready-made wedding invitations there is always something missing- that personal touch.
Having handmade wedding invitations reflects your commitment to creating an ambiance that is fitting for your wedding. They reveal your creativity, thoughtfulness and attention to detail and are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. More importantly, handmade wedding invitations give your wedding that distinctly personal touch that can never be bought or replicated.
Do you have to make handmade wedding invitations yourself?
Making homemade wedding invitations yourself can be a marvelous thought and you can certainly pull it off with élan if you have a limited guest list and plenty of time at your disposal. However, if you have a large guest list and limited time, you are better off getting homemade wedding invitations done by more professional hands.
Advantages of ordering handmade wedding invitations
Ordering handmade wedding invitations can save you time and money. Professionally done handmade wedding invitations have a distinctly look and this is because they are hand-made; the only difference being, they are made by hands other than yours. Besides looking sophisticated and elegant, getting handmade wedding invitations professionally done has other benefits as well. For a bridal couple who have set their heart on sending out customized handmade wedding invites, getting them done professionally frees up a lot of their time; time that could now be spent on the many other aspects of wedding planning.
Another huge advantage of ordering handmade wedding invites is that most professional wedding card makers would have everything they require right at their disposal. Trying to achieve the same effect yourself may involve having to buy special equipment and tools that could be a considerable expense.
Being able to order handmade wedding invites can also be a big boon to bridal couples who have the idea in their head but are not adept at executing it. It is important to make sure you explain your idea well and see the finished sample before ordering your handmade wedding invites en masse.
Popular Options for Destination Wedding Invitations
A very popular trend in the wedding industry is the destination wedding. A destination wedding is essentially a small celebration that is attended by the bride and groom’s closest friends and family. The celebration and reception are held at this destination whether it is the beach or another country. Destination weddings are more like group vacations, and many times, they may cost less than a traditional wedding because of discount vacation packages that are available at many travel agencies.
Although it may be difficult for all of your guests to make it to your wedding, you should still send them all an invitation. Remember, while there are discount vacation packages available, many people may not be able to afford the trip or get the time off from work.
First, when you are planning a destination wedding, it is imperative that you spread the word with ample time since your guests may not be arriving locally. When travel arrangements are required, it is best to provide as much notice as possible. Typically, wedding invitations are sent out 4 to 6 weeks before the event and with a destination wedding, you may want to send out a "Save the Date" card as far in advance as possible. Anywhere from a year to two months would be advisable.
When considering the wording for your destination wedding invitation, it is important to include the full range of dates for the event. Simply say what you would on any other invitation, but remember to include the full address of the location. However, popular wording for destination wedding invitations can primarily be dictated by the location. Many couples use small, whimsical poems to introduce their guests to the prospect of the destination wedding.
A destination wedding invitation should also include concise information on accommodations.
This is common in traditional wedding invitations as well, but it is more important for a destination wedding because guests may have to travel and obtain lodging. So, if you have made special dinner reservations, blocked out a number of hotel rooms at the resort (usually for a discounted price for guests), or have made any other arrangements for other special amenities, it is wise to include it in the invitation. The general rule is to include a separate piece of card stock or stationary per each piece of information. Always include this information in the same envelope as the original invitation.
Because wedding guests want to dress appropriately, even for a destination wedding, it is important to include the dress code within the invitation as well. For example, if the bride is going to wear a beach wedding dress without shoes, it is a good idea to let the guests know, or to mention that something like flip-flops may be appropriate for the sandy and wet location. If the wedding is taking place at a mountaintop resort as a formal event, it is also a good idea to let the guests know what they should be wearing. This not only helps everyone feel comfortable at the event, but it also gives everyone an idea of what they need to pack.
When it comes to the wedding RSVP for a destination wedding, you must allow extra time for your guests to respond. This is why is it important to remember to send "Save the Date" cards and other important information out as early as possible. Remember, while a lot of planning goes into the destination wedding event itself, the guests have their own significant amount of planning to consider as well.
These important elements must all be included in the destination wedding invitation. But remember, because this is a destination wedding, a lot of fun can be had designing the invitations! Think about the location of the wedding and try to implement that into the overall look, theme, and feel of the invitation. A prime example of a popular beach destination wedding invitation choice is to include colors such as blue, yellow, and green along with a tropical design. Perhaps the invitations could be embellished with seashells or have a palm tree design. A wedding taking place on a cruise ship may have a sailing theme to it, adorned with anchors and nautical symbols.
Getting married in a location that is not local is always a lot more work than planning a wedding at home. However, a destination wedding can be just as magical, when the proper planning goes into it. The destination wedding invitation is the first glimpse of what your guests may be expecting at your wedding. Be sure to design them with the fun of the destination in mind, but also with all relevant information so that your friends and family are able to join you. Destination weddings allow you to be creative when planning the event and you do not have to worry about sending out any formal invitations. This provides many options available and it allows you to decide what works best for your destination wedding.
Which Font Should You Use for Your Wedding Invitations?
It is your wedding day, and you want everything to be perfect, but do not overlook the items you need in the months leading up to your wedding. In particular, choosing the best wedding invitation can be the backbone to a great wedding planning experience. Most companies allow you to personalize the wedding invitations according to your specific preferences. When that is the case, choosing a font can be extremely overwhelming. Here is how to pick the right font for your wedding invitations:
Choose a font that makes sense for your wedding’s theme. If your wedding has a clear theme, having a font that falls in line with that theme is a good idea. For example, if your theme is a tropical or island wedding, you may want to choose a font that resembles the waves or ocean. If your wedding does not have such a clear-cut theme, you can still pick a font that works with the mood. For example, if your wedding is classic and elegant, use a classic, elegant script font, while if your wedding is modern, and use a modern, clean font.
Ask about pricing. Sometimes, certain general fonts are included in the overall pricing, while special fonts cost more. So, before you design the wedding invitation of your dreams, look at the costs. For couples on a budget, sticking to one of the more general fonts might be the best bet.
Look at a mock-up if possible. Sometimes the prettiest fonts do not work well for your specific invitation because of the spacing. For example, if you italicize a font, it might move one of the words to the next line, pushing all of your words and throwing off the design. In addition, a size in one font might not be the same size as another font, even if they are the same number. If possible, look at a version of the invitation with your preferred font to ensure that the spacing and sizing work with your design.
Consider multiple fonts. Again, pricing matters, but sometimes the best font choice is to use multiple fonts. Remember that your names should be the main attraction, but make sure that the date, time, and place are all easy to read. Using multiple fonts is sometimes more expensive, but that depends on where you order your wedding invitations.
Search the Internet for font ideas. If you are designing your own wedding invitations, you often do not have to be inhibited by the fonts that are already on your computer. There are thousands of websites that offer free fonts that you can download, and thousands more that sell fonts for extremely low prices.
Have a font designed for you and your significant other. This option is undoubtedly the most expensive, but there are graphic designers that can design a font specifically for you and your finance. Graphic designers are expensive, but if you purchase a font, you will own it. This allows you to use the font for anything you like. You can meet with a graphic designer, talk about fonts you like and do not like, and come up with a perfect font for you.
Start looking early. Try not wait until the last minute to start looking for your wedding invitations. It can take a few weeks or even months to have your wedding invitations shipped to you. You have to send them out with enough time for your guests to make plans and reply – and if you have a destination wedding that requires extensive invitations, you have to send them out even sooner. If you wait until the last minute to order, you may only have stock font options.
If you are having a hard time deciding what looks best, consider sticking to the stock font that comes with the wedding invitation you have chosen. Do not automatically assume that your wedding invitation looks cheap or generic after choosing these options. In actuality, highly paid designers are usually the people responsible for the wedding invitation fonts and designs that are available. You can rest assured that they have made beautiful design choices. So, instead of putting the pressure on yourself to choose an amazing wedding invitation font, consider simply using what the original designer recommended. As an added bonus, going with that option may typically be the least expensive choice!
Your wedding invitations are important to your wedding because they provide valuable information to your guests. These invitations should reflect the couple; therefore, you should carefully consider the font that is chosen. For some people, wedding invitations are last-minute afterthoughts. However, when you choose your wedding invitation, you set the tone for your entire wedding. If you make a great font choice, the stage should be set for a great wedding day.
Wedding Invitations - How Do You Want Yours?
Wedding Invitations are personal and set the tone of ones wedding. Invitations can be simple on inexpensive store brought paper or very elaborate etched pieces of gold. It all depends for the most part on your budget and your personal style and taste.
Wedding Invitations are very personal and intimate. No one publishes a public invitation card for a wedding. One creates a guest list and personally invites the guests to the wedding by means of a wedding invitation. A lot of thought and care is given to carve that list so as not to miss anybody important in our lives to attend our memorable event.
The wedding invitations reflect the tone of the wedding event. The invitation cards can be very expensive or very simple. It all depends on what kind of budget one has and how creative one is. A Wedding invitation unlike other invitations may have several pieces inside one main container for instance it could contain an invitation for a wedding, an invitation for a reception, a response card, details of the ceremony, venues, location maps and sometimes even a dress code.
The most modern form of Wedding Invitation is an Email invitation which is gaining popularity every day, but the basic concept of the invitation, content and design element remain the same. Similar effort is put into email invitations as is put into printed invitations, the electronic version of invitations can be more entertaining, attractive and interactive at the same time. Some innovative minds invite their guests by launching private websites which are only for their guests to see by invitation through email with a password for the private website. The reasoning behind this electronic medium usage is that it has a distinct advantage of a wider reach, in time response online, multiple invites and reminders to the guests which is all very attractive as the guests are not likely to forget even if they want to.
Traditional Wedding Invitations are generally in cotton or linen paper in white engraved in black or pastel ink colors. Many people prefer to have their invitations customized in non standard sizes and variety of materials with elaborate or simple classic tasteful designs. The response cards or RSVP cards are usually enclosed inside the wedding invitations to let the host know if the person will be attending the event or not which makes it easier for the host to manage the ceremony seating and reception menu etc and how best to take care of all attendees at the wedding.
As indicated the Wedding invitations are very personal and the wording plays a major role in the invitation. While the supplier or the publisher of the wedding invitation cards offer literally thousands of designs and a variety of standard content, it is always better to have a customized content that reflects your own personal style although the information presented in all the wedding invitations is pretty standard, it is the manner and the style of the presentation that reflects your personality and style.
Even though the Wedding invitations are printed separately by the bride and the groom in different styles and designs, the content and meaning reflected must be the same. The bride and the groom may choose a theme for their wedding which is indicated in the invitation cards to the guests so that they can participate in accordance with the theme.
Both Bride and the grooms full names are printed on the wedding invitations. Certain rules are followed for instance if you want to send some wedding gifts or wedding favors with the invitations to the prospective guests, it is perfectly acceptable but it is not acceptable but it is not acceptable to indicate your gifts or wedding registry details on the invitations.
Some interesting celebrity wedding invitations included Britney Spears wedding invitations which was reported to be delivered in a bag with a special note to the guests and one of the wedding invitation later appeared on Ebay Auction and reportedly sold for $2150.
Another interesting Wedding invitation was that of an Indian Businessman's daughter in U.K attended by many celebrities from various fields with a 20 page gold edged wedding invitations with hand printed images and details of various functions and venues and the invitation itself was accompanied by an intricately carved silver container weighing almost 5KG.
Wedding invitation is after all a matter of personal taste.
How to Buy Wedding Invitations Online
Wedding invitations are an important part of any wedding celebration. In some cases, receiving the wedding invitation is the first time friends and family is made aware of the fact that you are getting married. Some of your guests may not even realize that you are engaged! This is one important reason why purchasing the perfect wedding invitations is important.
There are many wedding invitation options available, especially if you shop online. Although some individuals may not be familiar with purchasing wedding invitations on the internet, there are several ways to get the most of your online shopping experience while making sure your find the correct wedding invitations. The following are tips for overcoming some of the difficulties you may experience when purchasing wedding invitations online.
First, if possible ask for wedding invitation samples. Samples are important because they allow to you to see exactly what you are getting if you purchase that invitation. There are several important aspects of an invitation that are obtained through the website such as the size and the design of the invitation. However, viewing these invitations in person can provide you with more information such as the exact color, texture and weight. Most companies that sell wedding invitations online are more than happy to send you a few samples. Create a list of your top choices, and then call the company to see if they can help you. Without obtaining a few samples, you may receive an invitation that is not the same color as you saw online. Computer monitors may not always provide the exact colors as they appear naturally and this is another reason you should obtain samples from your online retailer.
Wedding invitations can become pricy and this is another reason you do not want to purchase your invitations without seeing them in person. Although you want to make a good impression on your guests, you should consider this precaution.
When working online, it is always in your best interest to work with a larger company that answers your questions quickly and has clear ordering policies. Keep in touch with the company throughout the process so that if something goes wrong it can be fixed before it is too late, do not order your invitations online and be done with it. Call and speak to an associate at the company, making sure that you fully understand the company's policies. Sometimes, once you sign off on a proof, you cannot make changes, even if your wedding date changes or you notice typos that you did not notice in the past.
If you order wedding invitations online, always get a receipt and a clear idea about when you should expect your shipment to arrive. Read the company's policies carefully to see if they work for you.
The great thing about ordering wedding invitations online is that you can get advice from wedding invitation customers from around the world. Many times, people leave their comments about a company or specific kind of invitation as a user review. These reviews can be very helpful because a customer may include their entire experience including the good and bad. This allows you get a good sense of what to expect with that particular wedding invitation.
Buying your wedding invitations online can be a challenge but there are ways to ease the process making it an excellent way to purchase wedding invitations. However, even though you are facing challenges that you would not face if you purchased wedding invitations from a brick and mortar business, sometimes the best deals and most beautiful designs may only be available on the other side of the country. This makes it much more convenient. Ordering wedding invitations online is certainly a decision that you should consider carefully, but do not be afraid to take that step and at least view what the internet has to offer to brides and grooms around the world.
There is a lot of important information to consider when purchasing wedding invitations online. Online retailers that provide wedding invitations include all of the information necessary for you to make a decision. Although this information is present, you still need to take your time with this purchase. When purchasing your invitations online be sure to ask the retailer to send you a sample of some of your favorite invitations.
Making this important purchase online it not difficult, but it requires a bit of patience and research. This can help ensure that your purchase goes smoothly allowing you to obtain the exact invitations that you were looking at. Consider these tips while planning for your wedding and you should be prepared for making your wedding invitation purchase online. You may even find that special invitation that you were unable to find anywhere else. The extra research is well worth it, and you should be extremely satisfied with the result of using the internet to purchase your wedding invitations.
Tips for Choosing a Style for Your Wedding Invitations
Wedding invitations come in all shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, that means you may have a tough decision to make when it comes time to choose the wedding invitation that is right for you. You can choose from a wide range of colors, fonts and designs. These are all available in a variety of styles. Some styles that you can choose from are the following: classic, contemporary and destination.
The style of your wedding invitation should reflect the theme of your wedding. By choosing your wedding invitation style first, you can narrow down the options, making it easier to find a design that works well for you. Here are some great tips for choosing the perfect style for your wedding invitations.
First, consider that the wedding invitations are a reflection of the wedding theme. If you are going to have an informal beach wedding, choosing an elegant style for your wedding invitation might throw them off a bit. Similarly, if you want your wedding to be a black tie affair, sending out a bright colored modern wedding invitation may be confusing to your guests. Although you should be clear about the dress code and other elements in the invitation itself, the style really sets the tone. Even though you may really like one particular style, it may not be the best choice for your wedding if it does not match the theme you have chosen.
The theme chosen for your wedding affects the style you should consider when choosing a wedding invitation. Weddings can take place during any time of the year and color and styles reflect that. A fall wedding is usually more formal and a classic style invitation is an excellent choice for this type of wedding. Classic style invitations are usually white with black lace or a grey border. This provides your guests with the information that this wedding is formal.
Contemporary wedding invitations are similar to the classic style as they are also a great choice for a formal wedding. The main difference is that the contemporary or modern style provides more of a laid-back feel than the classic variety. Modern style invitations may contain an illustrated image of a wedding party, palm tree, or even a photo of the bride and groom. If you are not looking for invitations with fun illustrations, there are other options to consider within this category. There are also simple monochromatic invitations that are very similar to that of the classic theme.
If you are planning a destination wedding at the beach, you should not consider using a modern or classic style invitation. A wedding at the beach is very informal and this should be considered when deciding which invitations to utilize. One suggestion is to consider a photo invitation as this allows you to include a photo of the location. This allows your guests to get a sense of what to expect at the ceremony.
Another thing to consider when choosing the theme for your wedding invitations is your budget. Although you can find wedding invitations in all styles no matter what your price range may be, some styles may always be more expensive. Anything that is embossed, includes multiple elements, or is larger than a traditional size may cost more. Remember, although you want your wedding invitations to be reflections of you, you still need to set a budget when making these decisions. If you spend too much on wedding invitations, you may not be able to properly plan the rest of your wedding necessities.
With wedding invitation styles, your personal needs also come into play. Some minimalist styles, although very inexpensive, may not have all of the elements you need for planning your wedding. Consider whether your wedding invitations come with RSVP cards, save the card cards, and return envelopes. Some styles do not include these elements, which mean that you have to order them separately.
There are many styles available when choosing a wedding invitation. When deciding which is best for your wedding, be sure to consider the location, budget and theme. The theme is important as this helps narrow down colors and invitation styles and formality of the ceremony. For example, if you are choosing a destination wedding at the beach during the month of August, you should consider a light blue informal invitation that may also have an image of the ocean.
Classic and contemporary are also excellent choices to consider because they inform your guests of a traditional wedding that is most likely taking place in a formal location. Budget is also an important aspect to consider and this helps narrow down the list of possible invitation choices. Consider these tips when planning your wedding and you should have a better understanding of how to decide the right invitation style for your wedding.
Elements of a Contemporary Wedding Invitation
It is important to remember that the wedding invitation is essentially the key to your event as it is the first interaction your guests have with your wedding. In fact, the wedding invitation is a representation of the bride, groom, and should convey your personality. The modern wedding invitation is not only an extension of the happy couple, but also provides invaluable bit of information for the wedding guests.
Most of the basic elements of a modern wedding invitation are exactly the same as those of a classic wedding invitation. The invitation must include who is getting married, the date, the time of the wedding, the place, and who is hosting the event. In many cases, the modern wedding invitation, unlike the classic version, should state whether formal or casual attire is required.
Aside from the well-known informative elements of the wedding invitation, the modern elements all have to do with the format, materials, wording, and overall aesthetic of the invitation. First and foremost, the paper chosen is one of the most important elements of a modern wedding invitation. Beautiful papers, often hand-pressed, are ideal for modern wedding invitations. Such high quality papers add a touch of refined class to your invitation. While some papers are extremely expensive, they are well worth the extra cost.
Modern wedding invitations allow couples to plan their wedding in an up-to-date fashion. There are many styles to the modern wedding invitation, and one of the fastest growing trends is the handmade appearance that so many these days seem to have. Gone are the days of finely printed, embossed, and engraved wedding invitations and here are the days of one-of-a-kind hand-stitched, sewn, and hand-tied ribbons. The embellishments of the modern wedding invitation are exactly what make it so modern.
Handmade wedding invitations can end up costing you a lot more than traditional or classical invites, but to many couples, the touch of whimsy and uniqueness are well worth the extra money. However, it is possible to make handmade wedding invitations for a completely modern look but at a fraction of the cost with a little time, effort, and creativity. Today, many couples have access to good quality printers which makes it easier to design wedding invitations that speak truly to the nature of the couple.
In addition to certain embellishments added to modern wedding invitations, today many couples are using unusual shaped invitations rather than the traditional rectangular or square invitations we have seen of generations past. Oversized, tri-fold, and circular invitations are part of a growing trend of unusual shapes. Such shapes catch the eye of the invited guest and make a unique and interesting statement.
The shape is not the only way wedding invitations are becoming more modern. Classic wedding invitations are white or ivory, usually with black print. There may be hints of gold or silver for a touch of color. Today, many modern invitations are colorful and bright, which could not be more fashion forward. Many brides choose colored card stock, hand-pressed paper (with flowers), and vellum to add an extra layer of fun and excitement to their wedding (in many cases, the color scheme of the wedding invitations correlate to the color scheme of the wedding itself).
Modern wedding invitations provide an interesting design style. The modern style usually has two colors; one as a solid background color and a secondary color for the design. The writing may consist of a standard black or the same as the secondary color. While traditional wedding invitations provide all the basic information as we mentioned above, modern invitations include a little something extra. Most modern wedding invitations have an inner envelope that holds a selection of information cards outlining different topics. For example, there would be one card for each of the following topics – the wedding registry, hotel information, directions, things to do in the area, wedding website information, and the list can go on and on.
As society and culture changes, so does the wedding invitation, as weddings are integral parts of both facets of the world. For example, today many people find themselves "going green"which is another way of saying that they are becoming more and more environmentally conscious. Modern wedding invitations may reflect this aspect of the couple’s life by implementing recycled papers or even sending out electronic invitations through email.
More and more weddings today are destination weddings; this means not only the couple, but also the guests travel to a specific destination for the ceremony and reception. Usually, these weddings take place somewhere tropical, but there are destination weddings all over the world. Many modern invitations take on the destination theme, where the invitations themselves reflect the location. For example, a beach wedding may have sea foam green paper with shell embellishments.
Wedding Invitations and Stationery Australia How To: Wedding Invitation Wording - Informal/Modern
This is an interesting article written for informal or modern wedding invitation wording.
There are a few rules you should keep in mind when wording your wedding invitation and stationery:
Who is inviting your guests?
The style of wedding invitation and dress code should match the wording of your wedding invitation
Check your spelling and grammar
Wedding invitation wording can be a contentious issue!!! The wedding invitation wording isn't always based on who is paying or who is paying the most! Weddings are emotional times for families and friends, so it's always best practice to be upfront and flexible.
If your preference is for a more modern, casual or relaxed wedding, you should consider the following when constructing your wedding invitation wording:
• Modern wedding invitation wording does not typically use titles before names
• Use relaxed language, eg. '&' instead of 'and'
• The inclusion of phone numbers and email address in RSVP details
Once again it is important to be clear about who is inviting your guests, with more modern wedding invitation wording your options increase. For example: the bride's family may be hosting the guests, the bride and groom may be hosting the guests or the bride, groom and all parents may be hosting the guests!
Sample wedding invitation wording, where the bride, groom and all parents are hosting the guests.
Kay & Clint
together with their families
would love
.......................
to celebrate their marriage
......................
You may also like to incorporate the use of a short poem or romantic saying on your wedding invitation, for example:
You have shared in our children's lives and now we
Alan & Robyn Stoles
are delighted to invite you,
Todd, Regan & Samantha
to celebrate the love and marriage of
Ava and Harrison
at
..................
on
...............
Once again, the wedding invitation wording and dress code could coordinate, for example if you would like a beach, cocktail or garden wedding, where the dress code is casual, lounge suit or after five, then your wedding invitation language should reflect this.
Another issue is which printer is the most suitable for printing your invitation.
The first question you should ask yourself when choosing to print your wedding invitations is, laser or inkjet?
Printer options can greatly affect your wedding stationery choices, below are some useful tips on what printer you can choose to print your wedding invitations.
If you are creating your own wedding invitations, the printer you are using can determine your paper choices. Many manufactures will state on their packaging what printer the paper is compatible with - test printing is always advised if you are unsure. Some papers with inclusions and most handmade papers are not print compatible at all, so choose wisely.
A useful tip to keep in mind when selecting your wedding invitation paper and stationery is, if the paper is metallic or pearlescent, it isn't suitable for an inkjet printer. The wet ink does not adhere to the metallic/pearlescent surface of the paper and therefore will not dry and simply smudge off. You can purchase a special pouch to rub over these papers which places a coating on the paper and then you can use it in your inkjet printer. Once again, test printing is always advised.
If it does not state on the manufacturers labeling what printer the paper is compatible with, consult the customer service representative. Always ask which printer the paper is compatible with, this includes your envelopes.
What's the difference between printers?
The difference between laser and inkjet printers is heat, toner and ink.
A laser printer works with heat and dry toner, like a photocopier and takes large barrel-type toner cartridges. Laser printers are usually more expensive to purchase, especially colour laser printers, however are generally more economical to run in terms of consumables (toner).
An inkjet printer works with wet ink and takes smaller flat box-type ink cartridges. Inkjet printers are usually less expensive to purchase compared to a laser printer, but are generally more expensive to run in terms of consumables (ink cartridges).
Laser printers will give your print work a sharper more professional finish and you don't have to wait for the ink to dry.
How Much Should I Budget for Wedding Invitations?
The average wedding in the United States today costs more than $20,000 - before you keel over, you have to remember as you are writing those checks that this is going to be a special, once-in-a-lifetime day and that it’s worth spending a little extra to make it memorable! With that said, you shouldn’t spend a dime on your wedding until you know what your budget allows for each item. It is recommended that 5% of your budget be allocated to your wedding invitation package, which would include your invitation, response card, directions, reception invite, and all corresponding envelopes. If you’re also having your wedding programs, place cards, table cards and menus printed for your reception, bump that up to 8%.
When considering that your Save the Dates and Invitation is the first glimpse your guests will receive into the grand affair that you dream your wedding to be, you want to be sure you’re sending the right message with the quality of your invitation. As a broad guideline, think of further allocating 10% to your wedding attire, 8% to your photographer, 5% to your cake, 8% to your flowers, 45% to your reception and the remainder to various costs and items you want to make it YOUR special day!
Atlas Designs can help you keep your wedding invitation package under budget! We specialize in custom created invitations and announcements, working with the budget bride all the way through to the formal black tie affair. We invite you to visit our website galleries at www.atlasdesigns.org and subscribe to our blog at www.atlasdesignsonline.blogspot.com. We offer tips and advice to the wedding planning bride, as well as recommended vendors, customer reviews, and of course beautiful wedding designs that are sure to inspire!
Elements of a Perfect Wedding Invitation - Part One
Now that you've have had a chance to ponder the considerations for your wedding invitation, we're breaking down our earlier article into more detail. Ready to move forward? Ponder this...
Choosing the Writing Style for your Invitation
The first important consideration in creating your invitation is to select the best writing style. There are three major options:
Third-Person Formal - Use this for formal dinners, fundraisers, balls, galas, black tie affairs, and formal weddings.
Semiformal - Use this for cocktail parties, dinner parties, big birthdays bashes, graduation invitations, bridal or baby showers, cool theme parties, and less formal weddings.
Handwritten Notes - A great choice for very intimate or casual affairs including small birthday dinners, back yard barbeques, mothers day get togethers and housewarming parties.
Composing the Right Wording for your Invitation
The right wording can make or break your invitation. It will also set the event's tone and formality for your guests even before the event begins. Remember that your invitation is the first glimpse your guests will receive into the type affair you wish for it to be. Consider this:
Formal - On the invitation, the hostess usually "requests the honor of your presence", followed by the day of the week, date and the month spelled out, and the time and the place (i.e. "Sunday, the first of January/ two thousand and ten/ at half after six o'clock/ Sundy House, Delray Beach, Florida"). Engraved or raised print is the best choice with the formal invitation, typically written in an antique typeface. Consider, though, that laser printing and the myriad of computer fonts now available makes the formal invitation even more affordable for those on a budget. If you wish to go with the engraving but find it a little too pricey, consider the more affordable raised-print option of Thermography.
Semiformal - Semiformal invitations do not have to adhere to the etiquette of a strict writing style. You may choose a variety of ways to create your invitation, from bordered, textured or patterned paper, and size of the paper can vary as well. Many brides and party planners are moving away from the traditional 5 x 7 style and going with fun square or tall shapes so their invitations stand out. When creating a semiformal invitation, incorporate the event's theme to get guests on board and excited. Use ink and fonts that match the party's theme and stationery such as pumpkins for a Halloween party, fireworks for July Fourth, engagement rings for a bridal shower, a baby stroller for the baby shower, grill utensils for a BBQ...you get the idea.
Handwritten - The most important elements with handwritten invitations are the stationery and the legibility of the lettering. Make sure to choose beautiful stationary that really stands out, and either write very neatly or hire someone with excellent penmanship to write the text you've chosen. A calligrapher is a great idea for a truly beautiful and unique handwritten invitation.
Getting Your Wording Started
One of our favorite sites for invitation wording ideas is http://www.verseit.com/. You can browse by event type and get the idea juices flowing. And while you work on getting just the perfect wording, tune back into Part Two of our Elements Post coming soon, which will walk you through the tricky subject of working with a guest list and addressing your invitations.
Don't forget to check out the galleries at http://www.atlasdesigns.org/ for additional wording ideas.
WHAT ABOUT YOU? Share your ideas for wording with our other brides.
Finding the Perfect Wedding Invitation Design .... Ponder This!
Most brides now use the internet to find that perfect invitation, or at least get ideas of what other brides have used. With so many details and so little time, how do you find the right invitation for your very unique wedding? Here's a quick checklist to think through when pondering what type of wedding invitation you want to go with. Stay tuned for our next article, which will run you through the Elements of a Perfect Invitation. Ponder this:
In what type of setting are you getting married – church, formal, casual, outdoor, beach, gazebo, destination?
What are your wedding colors?
Is there an overall theme to your wedding?
Will your wedding be ethnic or religious related?
In what season will your wedding take place?
What personal touches will you be adding into your ceremony?
Are there symbols that you might want on your invitation that will carry through the wedding?
What is the style of your wedding - will you want traditional or modern invitations?
What type of flowers are you having in your wedding?
How important is traditional wedding etiquette to you?
Do you want to include your photo on your wedding invitations?
How much have you budgeted for your invitations?
Does your budget include any other print items, such as ceremony programs, reception table and place cards, etc.?
Having a good idea to most of these points will make the process much smoother when you sit down with your wedding planner or invitation designer. Call Atlas Designs today at 561.445.7630 or visit our site to see a gallery of designs our brides have loved. We're at http://www.atlasdesigns.org/. Our designs our unique, fresh, and custom tailored to every brides' specifications. Not a single invitation is identical to the next. Our brides receive one-on-one service and designs that are uniquely, unquestionably theirs.
WHAT ABOUT YOU? How did you narrow down the myriad of invitations out there to the perfect one that will herald your event? We'd love to get your comments.
Finding the Perfect Wedding Invitation Design .... Ponder This!
Most brides now use the internet to find that perfect invitation, or at least get ideas of what other brides have used. With so many details and so little time, how do you find the right invitation for your very unique wedding? Here's a quick checklist to think through when pondering what type of wedding invitation you want to go with. Stay tuned for our next article, which will run you through the Elements of a Perfect Invitation. Ponder this:
In what type of setting are you getting married – church, formal, casual, outdoor, beach, gazebo, destination?
What are your wedding colors?
Is there an overall theme to your wedding?
Will your wedding be ethnic or religious related?
In what season will your wedding take place?
What personal touches will you be adding into your ceremony?
Are there symbols that you might want on your invitation that will carry through the wedding?
What is the style of your wedding - will you want traditional or modern invitations?
What type of flowers are you having in your wedding?
How important is traditional wedding etiquette to you?
Do you want to include your photo on your wedding invitations?
How much have you budgeted for your invitations?
Does your budget include any other print items, such as ceremony programs, reception table and place cards, etc.?
Having a good idea to most of these points will make the process much smoother when you sit down with your wedding planner or invitation designer. Call Atlas Designs today at 561.445.7630 or visit our site to see a gallery of designs our brides have loved. We're at http://www.atlasdesigns.org/. Our designs our unique, fresh, and custom tailored to every brides' specifications. Not a single invitation is identical to the next. Our brides receive one-on-one service and designs that are uniquely, unquestionably theirs.
WHAT ABOUT YOU? How did you narrow down the myriad of invitations out there to the perfect one that will herald your event? We'd love to get your comments.
Wading Through Wedding Invitation Etiquette
Invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of the nature of your event. Your invitation sets the theme and mood for your wedding. When picking out styles of invitations you need to remember the invitation may be the only clue your guest will have in deciding how to dress, what to bring and what to expect of the grand affair you dream your wedding to be.
Working with your Guest List
Make sure you count the addresses and not the guests when budgeting for your invitations. What special arrangements need to be made for your out of town guest? Should you send them their invitations earlier than local guests? The best thing to do is send your out of town guests a "save the date card" which contains information about the wedding as well as information about any special accommodations that have been reserved for them. This card should be mailed out as early as one year before the wedding so that your guests have time to plan and make flight reservations if necessary.
Can I Invite Some Guests to the Wedding but not the Reception?
Yes, this is perfectly acceptable. Your invitation can have a separate card used to invite special guests to the reception.
Sending out your Wedding Invitations
Wedding invitations should be sent out 6-8 weeks before the wedding. The response cards must always be sent with postage. Make sure you have the right amount of postage on the response cards. You should never assume you are putting the correct postage on your invitation. Take one of your completed invitations to the post office and have it weighed. The correct postage will ensure prompt delivery with no postage due. Enclosing gift registry cards with wedding invitations should never be done...your family can get the message out about where you are registered.
Hand canceling your invitations is also a nice touch. It looks nicer and the envelopes tend to not get as damaged in the mailing process. Your local postal worker will frequently assist you with this. During the week mail gets set aside and sometimes misplaced so it best to mail invitations to your local guests on a Thursday. By doing this your guests receive them on a weekend and will be more likely to take the time to read and enjoy the invitation. Send invitations to out of town guests earlier in the week to allow for the extra mailing time. Always include your return address. This will guarantee that you know if your guest has not received their invitation.
Tracking Your Invitation Responses
Often one of the biggest headaches for brides is keeping tracking of who is coming, are they bringing a guest, are their kids tagging along, have they even responded? Atlas offers Invitation Tracking along with our design services. Your rsvp card would return to our office and we track every guest for you. You can receive daily or weekly reports of who is coming, who is not, and who you're still waiting to hear from without the hassle of trying to keep track of it yourself.
Is it Mandatory to send a Thank You, even though I spoke to them already?
Yes, social etiquette says that you should always mail out a thank you note, regardless of if there was already a verbal thank you. A written thank you note should be sent out as soon as possible after receiving a gift. This is normally within 2 to 3 weeks of receipt. You do have up to about three months to send them all out.
