All About Invitations
When planning a wedding so many details require time and precise attention. The wedding invitation is a good example. There are so many kinds and styles available. Before making your decision, here is what you should know.
The Basics
The standard set includes an invitation, a reception card (if the party and the ceremony are in separate locations), an RSVP card or postcard, and outer envelopes. Inner envelopes are also included with formal engraved invitations.
Order in person or via Web site. While going online may cost less, you’ll be giving up the instant tactile preview.
Mail your invitations four to six weeks before the big day, unless you’re having a destination wedding or are getting married over the holiday. In these cases, send them eight weeks ahead.
Have enough invites for the wedding party, your parents, and the “B list.” Spring for 25 extra envelopes; it’s common to make address mistakes.
Postal Code
Avoid odd shapes and sizes. That square invite may look cute but will cost more to mail since it is difficult to process on a standard machine. Some teeny RSVP cards may be problematic too. Get dimension requirements at usps.com.
Put your stamp on it. Vintage postage (that’s not been postmarked) is in style. Buy it at a collector’s shop; at sites like eBay and Champion Stamp Co.; or at a stationer, like Soolip.
Test the waters. Before you mail en masse, send one invitation to yourself to ensure that the enclosures look tidy and it all arrives intact.
Printing Glossary: What To Know
Engraving/ In this pricey method, a metal plate is incised and inked; transferring it to paper creates raised letters. It’s typically reserved for very formal weddings.
Letterpress/ Letters are pressed into the paper for a vintage, artisanal look; prepare to spend big bucks.
Thermography/ This popular method mimics the look of engraving but is far cheaper, since the letters are created on top of the paper rather than pressed in.
Offset/ Also flat and affordable, offset printing is generally more versatile than digital, because you can use a wider variety of papers.
Digital/ The least expensive method, this flat printing can be done on your home computer or by a retailer. It looks best on smooth paper.
Written by: Angela Hastings, Professional Wedding Planner
