The Perfect Invite

Want to start your wedding plans of right by sending out the perfect invitation? Between wording your invitation properly, to choosing the right design for you, to knowing how many to order and what size of envelope to use, there is much to consider when deciding on the right invitation. Although wedding plans include many detailed, important decisions that may seem more pressing, don’t take this step too lightly. After all, the invitation is the first notice many people receive informing them of your special day. It’s also a keepsake you’ll want to love just as much in 20 years as you do at the time you send them out.

Whether you want to dazzle friends and family with a formal, sophisticated style or you want to send out invitations that are fun and colorful, experts say it’s not “one size fits all.” Invites should reflect not only your personality and style, but the type of event you’re planning as well. An invitation with a scripted, slanted font that is centered on the paper translates to a traditional, formal event, whereas a funky, block type justified to one side tells guests you’re hosting a more modern function. Rectangular white or cream paper and black ink are hallmarks of a traditional wedding invitation as well, while trendier brides might experiment with graphic or floral motifs.

If you’re yearning to be creative, you may prefer a custom-designed invitation so you can choose your own color, style, font, and design. Check out stationary and ceremony paper websites for great ideas. You may even choose use these sites to design and purchase your invitations. If you are planning to design your own, be sure to order four to six months in advance to the time you plan to send them out to assure you have them in time.

If planning invites on a budget, keep in mind that more paper means more money. Embellishments, such as heavy, specialty papers or ribbons and wax stamps, and engraving, leatherhead, or hand-painted designs can cost more. It’s also wise to consider how much postage will cost. Depending on the size and weight of your invitation, a standard stamp may not be enough.

When ordering invitations, you should always over-order. That way you have extra for last-minute additions or mistakes in addressing them. Invites are usually sold in multiples of 25, so if you have to choose between a difference of five spares versus 30, go with 30. It’s better to have a few left-overs than to panic when you realize you forgot to add Great Aunt Vickie to your wedding, and you don’t have enough invites to correct your mistake.

Most of all, enjoy the experience. Remember, this is your wedding, your style. Don’t be afraid to use a bit of color and a splash of personality. Although it’s important to remember proper etiquette when wording your invitation, the other details are up to you. So, get to work and have fun choosing or designing the perfect invitation for you—one you’ll be proud to show for years to come!