Crafting Wedding Invitation Keepsakes: Creative Ways To Treasure Forever

Wedding invitations are often beautifully designed and packed with thoughtful details, making them the perfect memento to cherish long after the big day. There are many fun and creative ways to transform a simple invitation into a cherished keepsake. From framing the invitation to creating a unique ornament, memory box, or even a custom plate, there's something for everyone looking to preserve their special day. With a little creativity, you can turn your wedding invitation into a lasting reminder of the happiest day of your life.

Framing the invitation

Framing your wedding invitation is a straightforward way to preserve it as a keepsake. You can choose to frame it yourself, register for a double invitation frame, or have it framed by a professional.

If you decide to frame the invitation yourself, you can follow these simple steps:

• Style your wedding invitation suite on a piece of paper.
• Tape the invitation down.
• Place it in a frame.
• Hang it in a special, visible place, like your bedroom or hallway, so you'll be reminded of your wedding day.

If you want to add an extra special touch, consider including a petal from your bouquet in the frame. You could also opt for a large frame that matches your wedding colours seamlessly. Alternatively, you could try a DIY approach for an extra personal touch. For example, you could use a shadow box frame, foam squares, and some beautiful background paper in a solid colour or complementary pattern.

Decoupage plate

To create a decoupage plate from your wedding invitation, you can either engage the services of a professional company like Marye-Kelley Decoupage or attempt it yourself as a DIY project. If you opt for the latter, here are the general steps you can follow:

• Source the materials: You will need a plate (preferably with a smooth surface) and some decoupage medium or glue specifically designed for decoupage. You can find these supplies at craft stores or online. Additionally, you will need some paintbrushes, scissors, and any other decorative elements you wish to include.
• Prepare your invitation: Carefully cut out the parts of your wedding invitation that you want to include on the plate. This may include the invitation itself, the envelope lining, or any other decorative elements that hold special meaning for you.
• Plan your design: Before you start gluing, take some time to arrange the cut-out elements on the plate to plan your design. Play around with different layouts until you find one that you're happy with. Consider adding other decorative touches, such as dried flowers, ribbons, or glitter to enhance the overall aesthetic.
• Start decoupaging: Once you have finalized your design, use your paintbrush to apply a thin layer of decoupage glue to the back of each cut-out piece and carefully adhere it to the plate, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go. Repeat this process until all the elements are securely attached to the plate.
• Apply sealant: After everything is in place, apply a thin coat of decoupage medium or sealant over the entire surface of the plate. This will protect your design and give it a finished look. Follow the instructions on your chosen product for the recommended drying time.
• Add any final touches: Once the sealant is dry, you can add any final embellishments, such as a ribbon trim or a personalized message on the back of the plate.

Your decoupage plate is now ready to be displayed or gifted! It is a unique and personalized keepsake that will remind you of your special day whenever you see it.

Memory box

A wedding memory box is a great way to preserve your special day and can be a unique and permanent display in your home. You can buy ready-made memory boxes or create your own.

Buying a Wedding Memory Box

If you're looking to buy a memory box, Etsy has over 5,000 options to choose from. You can find wooden, leather, or glass boxes, some with custom engraving or printing. Many can be personalized with your names, the wedding date, or other details.

Creating Your Own Wedding Memory Box

Creating your own memory box allows you to add a personal touch and get creative. You can start with a simple wooden box and decorate it with items that reflect your wedding theme and colours. For example, you could:

• Attach dried flowers from your bouquet or other floral arrangements.
• Glue on a piece of lace or fabric that matches your wedding dress or table settings.
• Paint or draw designs that reflect your wedding style.

What to Include in Your Wedding Memory Box

Once you have your box, it's time to fill it with mementos from your special day. Here are some ideas:

• A copy of your wedding invitation, RSVP, and detail cards, as well as the envelope.
• A swatch of fabric from your wedding dress, veil, or bridesmaids' dresses.
• The cork from your first sip of champagne or a miniature bottle of champagne.
• Dried flowers from your bouquet or other floral arrangements.
• A copy of your wedding vows.
• Confetti or other decorations used on the tables.
• A small slice of your wedding cake.
• Your "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue."

Christmas ornament

A wedding invitation is a precious memento, often crafted with care and attention to detail, reflecting the couple's personality and creativity. It is a special reminder of the celebration of their love and can be transformed into a cherished keepsake. One creative way to preserve your wedding invitation is by turning it into a Christmas ornament, a perfect addition to your holiday décor during your first Christmas as a married couple. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating this special ornament:

Materials:

• Clear glass or plastic ornament
• Wedding invitation
• Coloured envelope or accent paper
• Paper trimmer or scissors
• Pencil
• Ribbon
• Glitter (optional)

Instructions:

• Using a paper trimmer or scissors, carefully cut your wedding invitation into thin strips. Ensure that important details such as names, dates, and venues remain intact and recognisable.
• Curl the strips of paper around a pencil tightly and hold them in place.
• Gently place the curled paper strips into the clear ornament. You can mix in pieces of your accent paper or coloured envelope lining for added colour and texture.
• For a festive touch, sprinkle a dash of glitter into the ornament for some extra holiday sparkle.
• Secure the top back on the ornament and use a ribbon to tie a bow through the hanging loop.
• Display your unique ornament on your Christmas tree, adding a special touch to your holiday celebrations.

This DIY ornament is a creative way to commemorate your wedding day and can also make a thoughtful gift for parents or in-laws. It is a simple yet meaningful project that will surely become a cherished part of your holiday traditions for years to come.

Engraved tray

A wedding tray is a perfect and unforgettable gift for a wedding or anniversary. You can get a finely made pewter tray engraved with a copy of a wedding invitation, creating an exceptional keepsake.

Firstly, you will need to source a handmade pewter tray from a craftsperson or retailer. You can find these online or in specialist shops. The tray can be engraved with a copy of the wedding invitation, so be sure to choose a tray that is large enough to fit the invitation design.

Next, you will need to provide the craftsperson or retailer with a copy of the wedding invitation. This can be done by scanning or taking a high-quality photo of the invitation and sending it via email. Be sure to include all the details of the invitation, such as any important text, dates, names, and venues, so that they can be included in the engraving.

Once the craftsperson has received the copy of the invitation, they will be able to create a proof for your approval. This proof will show you how the final engraved tray will look, so be sure to check it carefully to ensure all the details are correct.

After you have approved the proof, the craftsperson will then engrave the tray. This process involves using precise tools to carefully etch the design into the pewter surface, creating a permanent and detailed impression.

Finally, your engraved tray will be carefully packaged and shipped to you. You may also choose to have it gift-wrapped, especially if it is intended as a present.

This elegant and unique keepsake can be displayed in your dining room or kitchen for years to come, and it may even become a cherished heirloom passed down through generations.

Frequently asked questions