Framing Your Wedding Invite: A Simple Guide To Perfection

Wedding invitations are a precious memento of a couple's big day, and there are many ways to frame and display them stylishly. From personalised photo frames to shadow boxes, there are numerous options to choose from. This paragraph will explore some of the best ways to frame a wedding invitation, including various frame styles, materials, and unique ideas to create a lasting keepsake.

Choosing a frame style

When it comes to choosing a frame style for your wedding invitation, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide whether you prefer a simple or decorative frame. Simple frames typically have clean lines and minimal details, allowing the invitation to take centre stage. On the other hand, decorative frames feature intricate details such as beading, engraving, or gold leafing, adding a touch of elegance or glamour to the overall presentation.

The next aspect to consider is the material of the frame. Common options include wood, metal, and acrylic. Wooden frames offer a warm and rustic appeal, perfect for invitations with a natural or outdoor theme. Metal frames, often made from aluminium or brass, provide a sleek and modern look. They are a popular choice for showcasing invitations with gilded edges or elegant calligraphy. Acrylic frames, meanwhile, give a contemporary and lightweight appearance, well-suited for invitations with a minimalist or modern design aesthetic.

The colour of the frame is another important consideration. Neutral colours like black, white, and silver are versatile and can complement a wide range of invitation styles. Gold frames, whether in a shiny or matte finish, exude opulence and are ideal for invitations with metallic accents. For a more subtle approach, consider a frame with a hint of colour, such as a soft pink or pale blue, that ties in with the colour palette of your wedding.

Lastly, think about the size and orientation of your invitation when selecting a frame. Ensure that the frame is slightly larger than the invitation to avoid overcrowding. If your invitation is horizontal, opt for a landscape frame, and if it's vertical, choose a portrait-oriented frame. Additionally, consider whether you want a single-opening frame for just the invitation or a double-opening frame that can accommodate a photo alongside the invitation.

Using pressed flowers

Pressed flowers are a beautiful, natural, and affordable way to elevate your wedding invitations. The process of pressing flowers involves removing moisture from the petals, resulting in a flat, paper-thin appearance that preserves the flowers' vibrancy and freshness. Here are some tips and ideas for using pressed flowers to create elegant and unique wedding invitations:

Choosing the Right Flowers:

• Select flowers that hold their colour well when dried and pressed, such as "dry" flowers like hydrangeas and baby's breath.
• Consider the size of the flowers; substantial flowers with sizable buds, like roses, can be cut in half to create a unique, textured effect and speed up the drying process.
• Opt for flowers that coincide with your wedding aesthetic, such as sunflowers for rustic nuptials or anemones for contemporary celebrations.
• Include greenery like ferns, vines, and leaves for added interest and texture.

Pressing the Flowers:

• Use a flower press or create your own by layering cardboard pieces and loose-leaf or scratch paper between each layer to absorb moisture. Phone books or other heavy books can also be used.
• Ensure there is ample dry paper between layers of blooms to absorb moisture effectively.
• If using multiple presses, microwave the paper between pressings to ensure it is fully dried and absorbent.

Adhering the Flowers to Invitations:

• Once the flowers are completely dried, decide on the placement of the flowers on your invitations.
• Use rubber cement, such as the Best Test or Elmer's brand, to adhere the flowers to the invitations.
• Apply the adhesive to the back of each flower, then gently place it on the invitation.
• Trim any flowers that extend off the edge of the invitation using scissors or an X-acto knife.

Design Ideas:

• Assign a focal flower: Choose one type of flower as the main attraction and use accompanying foliage as accents.
• Elevate your wax seal: Add pressed flowers to your wax seal for a romantic and whimsical touch.
• Combine with illustrations: Pair pressed flowers with illustrated flowers or other designs for a unique and artistic look.
• Showcase foliage in frames: Place your pressed flowers in picture frames, especially for rustic nuptials, to create a homey and cozy atmosphere.
• Use edible floral accents: Press edible flowers like lavender, chamomile, or hibiscus and use them as garnishes on your cocktail hour menu or appetizers.

Floating frames

Choose a Frame Style

First, decide on the style of floating frame that best suits your wedding invitation and home decor. Floating frames come in various materials, colours, and sizes. You can opt for a simple or decorative frame, depending on your preference. Consider the colour and design of your wedding invitation when selecting a frame. For instance, a sleek, gold-accented frame would pair well with a wedding invitation featuring gilded gold leafing.

Prepare the Wedding Invitation

Before placing your wedding invitation in the frame, ensure it is clean and free of any dust or fingerprints. Handle the invitation with care to avoid bending or creasing it. If desired, you can also have your wedding invitation matted before framing to add a decorative border and enhance its appearance.

Assemble the Floating Frame

Hanging or Displaying the Frame

Once your wedding invitation is securely framed, you can hang or display the floating frame. Consider the size and weight of the frame when deciding on a location. If hanging the frame on a wall, use appropriate fasteners and ensure it is securely attached. Floating frames can also be displayed on shelves, mantels, or tables, adding a stylish touch to any room.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure your wedding invitation remains in pristine condition, it is essential to care for and maintain the floating frame. Keep the frame away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture to prevent fading or damage. Occasionally clean the glass or acrylic surfaces with a soft, microfiber cloth to remove any dust or fingerprints.

Double invitation frames

Choosing a Frame

When selecting a double invitation frame, consider the style and material that will best showcase your invitation and complement your home decor. Some popular options include:

• Silver-plated or metallic frames, such as those offered by Vera Wang for Wedgwood, Lenox, and Kate Spade, add a classic and elegant touch.
• Wooden or rustic frames can give a more casual and warm feel, like the shadow box frames by Lawrence Frames or MrsSouthernCharm.
• Acrylic or glass frames, like the One Kings Lane Celia Frame, provide a modern and sleek look that showcases your stationery.

Customisation

You can also consider customising your frame to make it even more special:

• Engraving: Some frames, like the Lenox True Love frame, can be custom engraved with a personal message, your names, or your wedding date.
• Mats and Liners: Using a mat or liner in your frame can enhance the presentation of your invitation. Frames that include mats, like the Wedding Picture Frames 2024 set, allow you to display invitations and photos of various sizes.
• DIY Shadow Boxes: Shadow boxes, such as the MrsSouthernCharm Wedding Shadow Box, offer a creative way to display not just your invitation but also other wedding mementos like your menu or "something blue."

Displaying Your Frame

Finally, consider how you want to display your framed invitation:

• Tabletop or Wall Display: Some frames are designed specifically for tabletop display, while others come with an easel or hanging hardware for wall mounting. The Umbra Clipline Wall Mounted Picture Frame is a unique option that combines a shadow box with a photo album, allowing you to display multiple wedding paper goods.
• Orientation: Pay attention to the orientation of your invitation when choosing a frame. Some frames are designed for horizontal or vertical display, so make sure your invitation will fit properly.

DIY framing

Framing your wedding invitation is a great way to preserve the memory of your big day. It can be a simple DIY project that you can use to decorate your home or give as a gift to a newlywed couple. Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and personalised DIY framed wedding invitation:

Selecting the Right Frame:

The first step is to choose a frame that complements the style of your wedding invitation. Consider the size, shape, and colour of the invitation when selecting a frame. You can opt for a simple flat frame or go for a more decorative option like a shadow box. Craft stores offer a wide range of frames made from various materials such as wood, metal, resin, or porcelain.

Float Mounting:

Float mounting is a technique that involves securing the invitation to a piece of foam core, lifting it slightly above the mat. This method showcases the edges of the invitation and creates dynamic shadows, making it a popular choice for framed wedding invitations.

Embellishments and Personalisation:

You can choose to keep it simple with just the frame and the invitation, or you can get creative and elaborate with embellishments. Add a personal touch by including additional items such as a petal from your bouquet, letters, vows, photos, or any other meaningful mementos. For a whimsical touch, consider adding artificial flowers, doves, or a small figurine of a bride and groom.

Frame Design and Arrangement:

Take cues from the invitation when designing the frame. For classic invitations with delicate scripts and light colour palettes, opt for traditional frames in warm tones. Modern or colourful invitations give you the opportunity to experiment with stronger frame options, such as black oiled-steel frames or sleek black or white poster frames.

Framing Process:

Start by cleaning the frame and ensuring the invitation is free of any dust or lint. Place the invitation upside down on the glass, and then put the cardboard back on top of it. Secure the back of the frame by snapping, screwing, or turning buttons.

Hanging and Displaying:

Decide on the arrangement of the frames before hanging them. You can hang them in a straight row or create a gallery wall with multiple pieces. Consider the space you have available and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful DIY framed wedding invitation that captures a special moment and becomes a cherished keepsake for years to come.

Frequently asked questions