Choosing Wedding Invitations: A Guide To Getting Started

Wedding invitations are an important part of the big day. They offer guests a first glimpse at the style and tone of the wedding, as well as providing essential information. There are many options to choose from, so it can feel daunting to select the right invites. This is how to do it.

First, decide on the type of event you're throwing. Is it classic and elegant, casual and relaxed, or glam and modern? Knowing this will help you choose an invitation style that matches the vibe of your wedding.

Next, think about your wedding colours. You may want to incorporate your hues and a motif into your invitations. Ivory, cream or white card stock paired with a black or gold font is a classic choice for formal weddings, but you can also brighten your invites with colourful or metallic fonts, paper stock, envelopes and liners.

Consider the price point. The cost of wedding invitations can vary wildly, so be sure to consider your budget.

Don't forget the inserts. Most wedding invitation suites can be customised to include RSVP cards, direction cards, and cards where guests can note special dietary needs.

Finally, don't crowd the card. Only list the key points on your invitation, such as the time and location of the ceremony, the hosts, the full names of the couple, the dress code (optional) and RSVP information.

Budgeting for invitations

Budgeting for wedding invitations can be tricky, but it's an important part of planning your big day. Here are some tips to help you allocate your funds wisely:

Determine Your Overall Wedding Budget

Before you can start allocating funds for wedding invitations, you need to have a clear idea of your overall wedding budget. This will help you figure out how much you can realistically spend on invitations without breaking the bank. Sit down with your partner and anyone else financially contributing to the wedding and have an honest conversation about how much everyone is comfortable spending.

Allocate a Percentage for Invitations

A good rule of thumb is to allocate around 2% of your total wedding budget for invitations and stationery. This includes everything from save-the-dates to invitations to thank-you cards. So, if your total wedding budget is $10,000, you would allocate around $200 for invitations. Of course, this is just a guideline, and you can adjust it based on your priorities and the size of your guest list.

Consider the Price Per Invitation

The price of wedding invitations can vary greatly, from a few cents per invite to upwards of $50 each. The price will depend on factors such as the paper type, printing method, design, and any additional inserts or embellishments. When creating your budget, be sure to multiply the price per invitation by the number of invitations you need. Remember, you only need to send one invitation per household or couple, not per guest.

Shop Around for Deals

To save money on wedding invitations, look for deals and discounts. Many websites offer sales and promotions that can help you stay within your budget. You can also compare prices between different vendors and choose the one that offers the best value for your money. Don't forget to factor in shipping costs when calculating the total price.

Choose Your Paper Type Wisely

The paper type or material you choose for your wedding invitations can also impact your budget. Some options, like cotton fiber and handmade paper, can be more expensive, while others, like parchment and recycled paper, are more budget-friendly. Consider your theme, budget, and the impression you want to make when selecting your paper type.

Plan Ahead

Start planning and budgeting for your wedding invitations early on. This will give you more time to compare prices, take advantage of sales, and avoid rush fees. It's also a good idea to order a few extra invitations in case of last-minute guest list additions or mistakes during addressing.

Consider DIY Options

If you're crafty or looking for a more affordable option, consider creating your own wedding invitations. You can find templates and print them yourself, or even design them from scratch. This option typically requires more time and effort but can save you a significant amount of money.

Remember, your wedding invitations are just one part of your special day. It's important to allocate your budget wisely and prioritize the elements that are most important to you and your partner. Happy planning!

Incorporating the wedding theme

Wedding invitations are the first hint of your special day's style, so it's important to get them right! If you're incorporating a wedding theme, here are some ideas to get you started:

Rustic/Country

Go for invitations with wooden patterns, burlap or barn accents. A country-inspired wedding invitation might feature mason jars, string lights, or fireflies. You could also include a map of your wedding location, or opt for a vertical envelope to showcase an illustration of the venue.

Vintage

Vintage wedding invitations might play with design elements from a past era, such as art deco. Look for soft and feminine hues, tea-stained linen, deckled edges, and cursive script fonts. You could even include wildflower seeds for guests to plant in their gardens.

Elegant/Minimalist

Elegant invitations focus on simplicity with a few special design elements. A minimalist invitation might feature clean, horizontal lines, understated colours, and elegant floral arrangements. You could also play with sheer paper, such as vellum, to add a touch of luxury.

Tropical/Destination

If you're having a destination wedding, your invitations can be inspired by the location. Include illustrations or motifs inspired by the area, or use colours that match the local flora and fauna. If you're getting married by the sea, consider nautical-themed invitations with anchors, flags, or sailboats.

Nautical

Nautical-themed weddings are usually associated with waterfront venues and preppy styles. Look for invitations in shades of navy, white, red, and yellow, with wide stripes, anchors, or sailboats. You could even use signal flags or monograms to add a unique touch.

Modern

Modern wedding invitations often feature simple typography and unique artistic elements. Play with different fonts, such as serif or script, to create a stylish and trendy look. If you're having a black-tie wedding, consider using high-end materials and custom touches like hand-written calligraphy.

Choosing inserts

RSVP Card and Envelope

The RSVP card and envelope are staples in any invitation suite. You can include cards with blanks for guests to fill in the names of those attending, or you can include the number of seats reserved and ask them to confirm the number of attendees. Be sure to include a self-addressed envelope with a stamp, as well as a deadline for responses. To save on postage, you could also use postcard RSVPs.

Wedding Website Card

Most weddings now have a website with all the necessary information, such as dress code and registry details. Your "Info" or "Details" insert card is the perfect place to put the URL for your wedding website. Encourage guests to refer to the site for more information, especially if not all the wedding details have been finalised.

Reception Card

If your reception is at a different location to the ceremony, include a reception card with the time and location, as well as any directions or parking information. If the ceremony and reception are at the same place, you can skip this card and add "reception to follow" to your main invitation.

Pre-Wedding and Post-Wedding Events Card

If you have any pre- or post-wedding events that won't have their own separate invitations, include the date, time, and dress code on an insert. This is also useful for destination weddings, where you can include an overview of travel options and accommodation information.

Map or Directions Card

A custom map is a beautiful addition to your invitation suite. This can be a written-out set of directions or an illustrated map that includes key landmarks, parking areas, and entrances. If you're having a destination wedding, you can also include some recommendations for local hotspots or your favourite places to visit.

Dress Code or Attire Card

If you have a specific dress code or colour palette you want your guests to follow, include this information on an insert. This is especially useful if you have multiple events with different dress codes, or if you have outdoor activities that require comfortable shoes. Otherwise, you can include a general theme like "formal attire" in the main invitation.

Selecting a font

• Decide on custom invitations: If you opt for custom invitations, you will have more control over the font selection. Stationers typically have access to a larger library of commercial-use fonts that cannot be downloaded for free online. However, if you are creating your own invitations, you can explore the thousands of fonts available for personal or commercial use with a quick online search.
• Understand typeface styles: Familiarize yourself with the different types of fonts to help you make an informed decision. Serif fonts have short lines attached to the ends of the letters, such as Times New Roman. Sans-serif fonts, like Arial or Helvetica, do not have these lines. Script fonts resemble cursive handwriting or calligraphy and often feature flourishes. Display fonts are more artistic and are used sparingly, as they are not always legible.
• Let your wedding style inform your font choice: Choose a font that aligns with the style and vibe of your wedding. For example, serif fonts are typically associated with classy and elegant weddings, while sans-serif fonts are more modern. If you are having a whimsical event, a fun and playful calligraphy-style font may be suitable.
• Consider legibility: While there are many unique and creative fonts available, it is important to select a font that is easy to read. Your guests should be able to understand the details of your event without any difficulty. Reserve more unusual or intricate fonts for headings or accents.
• Ensure fonts pair well together: You will likely want to use more than one font on your wedding invitations to create visual interest. However, it is recommended to limit your selection to a maximum of two or three fonts to maintain a cohesive and readable design. Play around with different font combinations and scales to find what works best together.
• Ask yourself some key questions: When deciding on a font, consider whether it is legible, aligns with your chosen wedding aesthetic, and will look good on other stationery items.

Remember, your wedding invitations are a preview of your special day, so take the time to choose a font that reflects your style and sets the right tone for your event.

Knowing what to include

Wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of your special day, so it's important to get them right. Here's everything you need to know about what to include in your wedding invitations:

The Basics

The wedding invitation itself is the most important part of the envelope. It should include the following information:

• The couple's names
• Location name and address
• Date and time
• Other details and post-ceremony plans

Supplemental Materials

In addition to the invitation itself, you may want to include the following supplemental materials:

• Response card or RSVP: This is used to gather guests' responses, as well as any dietary restrictions or other preferences. Don't forget to stamp these cards!
• Enclosure or details card: This is where you can include any other information, such as your wedding website, dress code, or map and direction information.
• Map and/or direction information card: If you're having a destination wedding or your venue is hard to find, consider including a custom map with fun details about the area.
• Reception card: If your reception is at a different location or much later in the day, include this information on a separate card.

Optional Extras

To make your invitations stand out, consider adding some of these optional extras:

• Foil: Foil-stamped invitations add a touch of texture and shine.
• Envelopes (inner and liner): Inner envelopes or envelope liners create a luxurious feel.
• Wax seals: Add a classic and elegant touch with a custom wax seal.
• Address labels: Order custom address labels that match your stationery for a cohesive look.
• Lace or ribbons: For an elegant and unique touch, consider adding lace or ribbons.
• Customized stamp: A customized stamp adds a personal touch and can be used long after the wedding.

What Not to Include

There are a few things you should not include on your wedding invitations:

• Registry information: It is considered poor form to include registry details on your invitations. Instead, include this information on your wedding website or spread the word through your parents, wedding party, or close friends.
• Crowded card: Avoid squeezing too much information onto the invitation. Keep it elegant and easy to read by including only the key details.
• Inaccurate time: Do not put an earlier time on the invitation than the actual start time. Guests usually arrive early, so you don't want them waiting too long.

Frequently asked questions