I rarely do wedding posts anymore, but when I do they're always on Thursday.
Just something I've noticed.
If you've ever bought wedding invitations you definitely know just how much goes into picking out just the right one. It has to match the theme, colors, and heck just make you happy. Today's guest post by Sandie Muncaster will definitely help you out if you are on the purchasing side of invites!
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You take the time to pick out
the right dress, the right cake, the right venue, so why not also take the time
to pick out the very first element of your nuptials that most guests will see?
Wedding invitations sometimes come as an afterthought, but they are important
and show the preview of your big day. There are several things you need to
consider when you want to pick out memorable wedding invitations (and their
corresponding response cards), but you’ll do just fine if you use these
pointers as a guide:
Set the tone
Invitations can be anything
from reserved to over-the-top exclamations of your wedding. There is no “one
size fits all” here and, instead, it’s what best fits you and your spouse-to-be
and reflects the overall tone of the affair. Many attendees use the fanciness
of the lettering, ink and layout to help them identify how to dress, so be
careful not to accidentally mislead your guests (especially if you’re providing
them with vague directives like “black-tie optional”).
Pick out your colors
There is no design element
more powerful than color. Many people like to match their invitations’ palette
with that of their actual wedding; while this is a lovely touch, it isn’t
necessary. Complimentary hues are advised, but what is important is that the
color selection takes on the same personality as your décor. For example, is
your English garden venue featuring soft pastels of grays, pinks and baby
blues? Don’t contrast this with fiery, bold reds, blacks and oranges that would
indicate an edgy, contemporary event.
Select the design
Most people choose an elegant
script, but you can really choose any font you like (although be forewarned,
bubble letters hardly ever go over well for weddings). You can make your
invitations especially unique by choosing multiple fonts (say, one for the
actual wedding announcement and another for the wedding details), but try not
to use more than two or three to avoid confusion and tackiness. Ribbons can be
a nice touch, but keep in mind that fat, shiny ribbons and rhinestones make it
look more like a sweet sixteen than a wedding. So, go with thinner and/or
lighter ribbons.
Image or no image?
Generally speaking, images
are a bit much for even elaborate wedding invitations. You can get away with a
simple floral pattern running along the side, but a picture of a big bouquet of
flowers takes away from the text, which is really the most important part of
the invitation. And if you want to include a photo of you and your fiancé, consider
the fact that you may plan on including one on your wedding thank you notes,
and even at the wedding itself (table arrangements, sign outside the event
hall, etc.) If this is the case, you may want to just choose a simple design
for the invitation in lieu of a photo.
Choose a textile
Did you know that your
wedding invitations don’t actually have to be on paper? Some people opt to
print their invitations on handkerchiefs like these,
while another option is having the text embroidered. Either way, it’s best to
use a pale, solid fabric so the details of the invitation can easily be read.
Another option is to print the invitation on squares of lightweight fabric that
can then be backed with paper or even a thin strip of wood. Of course you can
utilize the timeless option of paper, and there are plenty of varieties to
choose from. Just be sure to go with something that is sturdy enough that it
won’t bend easily or flop down when held on one side.
Don’t neglect the envelope
While not as important as the
invitation itself, the envelope also should be chosen with care. For one thing,
the color should correspond with the design of the invitation. You also have
the option of having a custom envelope made that folds out with the invitation
and is attached to it or has inner pockets. But whatever you choose, just make
sure the envelopes can be clearly addressed and sent through the mail (unless
of course you are doing person deliveries). Some people also like including
rose petals or a bit of confetti in the envelopes with the cards, but be
forewarned that this could annoy a lot of people when it spills out onto their
floors.
Say what you want to say
You can say whatever you want
in the text of the invitations, but you do need to include the basic necessary
information. You and your fiancé’s name, the date of your wedding, the
location, and the RSVP date. Other details that are customary to integrate
include the dress code, directions and parking tips for the venue and a
response card. If the invitation is addressed to only one person, you should be
sure to include if they get a “plus one” or not.
Have more than one option
While browsing around for the
perfect invitation, there should always be options to select from, especially
if you cannot decide at first. Many vendors like David’s Bridal
will send you invitation samples before you decide to order. This allows the
brides and grooms to physically see the quality of the invitation before
placing the order. The dream invitation you see in person or online, may not
come out the way you imagined.
Have someone else look over
your plans for your wedding invitations before you have them made. There might
be wording that, though clear to use, may be confusing to others. It’s best to
choose a friend of family members who has preferences not far from your own. Of
course, the above are merely suggestions – let your invitations reflect your
personality and, above all else, do what makes you happy.
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