George Boyle
Wedding invitations are an important part of the bridal detail shots, and photographers often use them as a Connection Element to tie together the various details of the wedding. To ensure the best wedding detail photos, it is recommended to have two copies of the full invitation suite, including envelopes, RSVP cards, and any other detail cards. This allows photographers to capture all the important elements, especially if there are double-sided designs or envelope liners. It is also suggested to have an envelope with a fake address to protect personal information when the photos are published online.
| Characteristics | Values | |
|---|---|---|
| Outer envelope for a married couple with the same last name | "Mr. and Mrs. [Husband's first name] [Shared last name] | |
| Inner envelope for a married couple with the same last name | "Mr. and Mrs. [Shared last name] or " [Husband's first name] and [Wife's first name] | |
| Outer envelope for a married couple with different last names | "Ms. [Wife's first name] [Wife's last name] and Mr. [Husband's first name] [Husband's last name] | |
| Inner envelope for a married couple with different last names | "Ms. [Wife's first name] and Mr. [Husband's first name] | or " [Wife's first name] and [Husband's first name] |
| Outer envelope for a married couple with one hyphenated last name | "Mr. [Husband's first name] [Husband's last name] and Mr. [Partner's first name] [Shared hyphenated last name] | |
| Inner envelope for a married couple with one hyphenated last name | "Mr. [Husband's first name] and Mr. [Partner's first name] | or " [Husband's first name] and [Partner's first name] |
| Outer envelope for an unmarried couple | "Mr. [First person's first name] [First person's last name] and Ms. [Second person's first name] [Second person's last name] | |
| Inner envelope for an unmarried couple | "Mr. [First person's first name] and Ms. [Second person's first name] | or " [First person's first name] and [Second person's first name] |
| Outer envelope for a single female | "Ms. [Name] or "Miss [Name] for those under 18 | |
| Inner envelope for a single female | "Ms. [Last name] or "Miss [Last name] or " [Name] | |
| Outer envelope for a single male | "Mr. [Name] | |
| Inner envelope for a single male | "Mr. [Last name] or " [Name] |
What You'll Learn
Include a fake address
When it comes to addressing wedding invitations for detail photography, there are a few things to keep in mind, especially if you want to include a fake address. Here are some tips to help you achieve beautiful and meaningful photos while maintaining privacy:
Privacy and Aesthetics:
While including a fake address on your wedding invitations for detail photography, it is essential to strike a balance between privacy and aesthetics. Using a fake name and address might feel impersonal when looking back at your photos. On the other hand, including your actual address may not be ideal for public display on social media or blogs. Consider addressing the invitation to your wedding venue instead. This way, you can showcase a meaningful location without compromising privacy.
Venue Addressing:
Addressing your invitation to your wedding venue adds a unique touch. It can be a way to highlight a location that holds a special place in your heart. This approach not only adds a personalised element to your photos but also ensures that you're not sharing private information online. It's a creative solution that many couples have found appealing.
Envelopes and Calligraphy:
When including a fake address, pay attention to the envelopes and calligraphy. Choose envelopes with a matte finish, as shiny or satin textures may not work well with certain inks. Consider using fake calligraphy to add a touch of finesse and class to your invitations. You can achieve this yourself, even with messy handwriting, by using gel pens or fine-tip ink pens and following online tutorials.
Photography Tips:
To enhance your detail photography, consider providing your photographer with a "details box" containing all the relevant items, such as the invitation suite, rings, something old/new/borrowed/blue, etc. This will save time and ensure your photographer can capture all the important elements. Additionally, bring two copies of your full invitation suite, especially if it includes envelope liners or double-sided designs.
Extra Elements:
To elevate your detail photos, include extra elements such as menus, place cards, favours, and items in your wedding colours, like silk ribbons or velvet ring boxes. Ask your florist for extra loose stems to incorporate into the styling. These additions will make your photos more personal and visually appealing.
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Bring two copies
Wedding invitations and the accompanying envelopes, RSVP cards, and any other details are an important part of the wedding photography checklist. These stationery items are often custom-designed or handcrafted and serve as a beautiful backdrop or "connection element" for detail shots, helping to capture the unique style and personality of the couple.
To ensure you have all the necessary items for your wedding photographer to work with, it is recommended to bring two copies of your full invitation suite. This includes both the inner and outer envelopes, RSVP cards and envelopes, and any other detail cards included. Here's why bringing two copies is important:
Capturing All the Details:
Bringing two copies allows the photographer to capture all the elements, especially if there are double-sided designs or envelope liners. By having two sets, the photographer can showcase the different layers and dimensions of your stationery, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed.
Creative Flexibility:
With two copies, your photographer has more creative freedom to style and compose the shots. They can experiment with different arrangements, angles, and lighting setups without worrying about missing out on certain elements. This flexibility helps them create a diverse range of images, capturing the full essence of your wedding stationery.
Consistency and Backup:
Having two copies ensures consistency in your wedding photography. If one copy gets accidentally damaged or lost during the event, having a second set provides a backup, allowing your photographer to capture the complete set of details without any missing pieces.
Privacy and Personalisation:
Bringing two copies also allows for privacy and personalisation. One copy can be used for photography, ensuring that no personal information, such as addresses or names, is shared online or on public platforms. The second copy can be addressed with a fake address and styled with calligraphy or other custom details, creating a unique and personalised keepsake.
Time Efficiency:
By providing two copies, you enable your photographer to work efficiently. They can set up shots, style the stationery, and capture different angles without having to wait or request additional items. This helps keep your wedding day timeline on track and ensures a smooth and stress-free photography experience.
Remember to gather all your wedding details, including the invitation suite, ahead of time. This will save time and allow your photographer to focus on creating stunning images that showcase your attention to detail and celebrate your special day.
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Add extra elements
Adding extra elements to your wedding invitation photos is a great way to make them more personal and editorial. Here are some ideas to enhance your detail shots:
- Vintage trays, ring boxes, and ring dishes: These props can add a touch of elegance and help showcase the rings, earrings, and other small items.
- Extra stems of greenery: Ask your florist for a few extra stems of greenery to include in the photos. They will add a pop of colour and freshness to the shots.
- Silk ribbons: Ribbons can help connect all the smaller elements to your wedding colours. You can drape them across the invitation suite or use them as a backdrop for ring and earring photos.
- Personalised items: Include personalised items such as monogrammed handkerchiefs, vow books, or antique trays. These items will make your photos more unique and meaningful.
- Flowers and boutonnieres: Adding a boutonniere, bouquet, or loose flowers can bring colour and tie in your wedding colours. Ask your florist for a handful of loose blooms to give your photographer options for styling!
- Heirloom items: Family heirlooms, such as vintage jewellery or a borrowed necklace, can add a sentimental touch to your photos.
- Wax seal stamps: If you're using wax seals on your invitations or stationery, include the stamps in your detail shots. They will add a touch of elegance and customisation.
- Calligraphy: Consider hiring a calligrapher to address your envelopes. This will not only make your invitations look elegant but also provide a nice keepsake for yourself and your photographer to capture.
- Connection elements: Think of items that can be used as "connection elements" throughout your detail shots. For example, you can use your invitations as a backdrop for ring and earring photos, creating a cohesive look for your album.
- Small details: Remember to keep extra elements relatively small so they complement, rather than distract from, your bridal details. Larger items can still be included, but your photographer can style them separately to ensure the focus remains on the smaller details.
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Prepare ahead of time
Preparing ahead of time is key to ensuring that you get the best wedding detail photos. Here are some tips to help you prepare:
Create a Checklist:
Make a list of all the items you want to include in your detail photos. This can include the invitation suite, rings, shoes, jewellery, something old/new/borrowed/blue, perfume, veil/hairpiece, garter, wedding programmes, vow books, and any family heirlooms or personalised items. Having a checklist will ensure that you don't forget anything on the day.
Gather all the Details:
Collect all the items on your checklist ahead of time. This will save you time on your wedding day, as you won't need to spend time searching for each item. Place all the details in a tote bag or small box for easy access and to keep everything together.
Prepare the Invitations:
Be sure to bring two copies of your full invitation suite, including envelopes, RSVP cards, and any other details. If you have envelope liners or double-sided designs, having two copies will ensure that all the elements can be captured. Consider having a calligrapher address one of the envelopes for a beautiful keepsake. If you want to keep personal information private, use a fake address.
Add Extra Elements:
To enhance your detail photos, consider adding extra elements such as silk ribbons, vintage trays, ring boxes, or extra flowers or greenery. These elements add a personal touch and can tie all the smaller details together. Just make sure they are relatively small so they don't distract from the main items.
Communicate with your Photographer:
Let your photographer know about any extra elements you plan to include, so they can also prepare and bring any additional styling tools if needed. Discuss the timing for detail photos, as this can be time-consuming, especially if you have a lot of items.
Steam and Hang the Dress:
If you plan to include photos of the wedding dress, have it steamed the night before to remove any wrinkles. Find a great spot to hang the dress, as this can take some time. You can also include the veil in these photos if you wish.
By preparing ahead of time, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your wedding day, knowing that all the details for your photos are taken care of.
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Use a calligrapher
Wedding invitations are a great opportunity to add a personal touch, and calligraphy is a beautiful way to elevate your wedding experience. Here are some tips for using a calligrapher to address your wedding invitations:
Finding a Calligrapher
Start by asking your stationery designer for recommendations if you're working with one. Most stationery boutiques have a list of trusted calligraphers they collaborate with and can match you with an artist who suits your needs and style. Alternatively, you can search for calligraphers online and browse their portfolios to find one whose style you admire. When you've found a calligrapher whose work you love, reach out to discuss availability, pricing, and the specific services you require.
Working with a Calligrapher
When working with a calligrapher, it's essential to provide them with a well-organised list of addresses. Your calligrapher will typically request a spreadsheet or table with each line item (title, first name, last name, street address, city, state, and zip code) in separate columns for each guest or party. This ensures that the addresses are accurately transcribed and consistently formatted.
Costs and Timing
The cost of calligraphy services can vary depending on factors such as the calligrapher's experience, the size of your order, and the materials used. On average, calligraphy for wedding invitation envelopes can range from $2.50 to $6 per envelope, while place card calligraphy starts at around $2 per card. It's important to give your calligrapher ample time to complete the task, as it is a time-consuming process. Discuss the timeline with your calligrapher and provide them with the necessary details well in advance to avoid rushing their work.
Benefits of Using a Calligrapher
Using a calligrapher for your wedding invitations adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. It is a traditional way to greet your guests and set the tone for your wedding. Calligraphy can also be used beyond stationery, such as on seating charts, escort cards, menu cards, and even non-paper items like mini sparkling wine bottles or shot glasses. It's a wonderful way to add a personalised, artistic touch to your wedding details.
Other Considerations
If you're looking for ways to save money, you could consider learning calligraphy yourself. It requires practice and patience, but online resources and printable worksheets can guide you through the process. Alternatively, you can opt for digital calligraphy or printed calligraphy, which are more affordable options that mimic the look of traditional calligraphy.
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Frequently asked questions
For a heterosexual couple, use "Mr." and "Mrs." and spell out the husband's first and last name. For a same-sex couple, either name can go first.
Outer envelope: "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Warren"
Inner envelope: "Mr. and Mrs. Warren" or "Thomas and Michelle".
For a heterosexual couple, write their names on the same line with the woman's name first; if the combined names are too long to fit on one line, list them separately.
Outer envelope: "Ms. Maria Stevens and Mr. David Estevez"
Inner envelope: "Ms. Stevens and Mr. Estevez" or "Maria and David".
Use "Ms." if she is over 18. If she is younger, then "Miss" is acceptable; it should be spelled out, not abbreviated as an initial.
Outer envelope: "Ms. Stephanie Chen" or "Miss Stephanie Chen" (if she is younger than 18)
Inner envelope: "Ms. Chen" or "Miss Chen" or "Stephanie".
If the combined names are too long to fit on one line, list them separately. Spell out "doctor" on the outer envelope, and abbreviate it on the inner.
Outer envelope: "Doctor Tami Takata and Ms. Christina Smith"
Inner envelope: "Dr. Takata and Ms. Smith" or "Tami and Christina".
