Creating Wedding Invitations: Hobby Lobby's Guide

If you're looking to make your own wedding invitations, Hobby Lobby offers a range of DIY invitation kits that can be purchased online or in-store. The kits include invitations, reply cards, save-the-date cards, and various designs and templates to choose from. While some couples opt for professional printing services, others choose to print the invitations themselves using home printers, which can be more cost-effective. However, it's important to note that some printers may not be compatible with the paper provided in the kits, so it's recommended to test the printing process beforehand.

DIY templates: test print on regular paper first, then adjust your printer settings

When creating your own wedding invitations, it's important to test print on regular paper first. This allows you to make any necessary adjustments to your printer settings and ensure that your invitations print perfectly. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:

First, obtain a piece of paper that matches the size of your wedding invitation. You can use this paper to practice printing the invitation before using the actual invitation card. It is also helpful to have the correct template downloaded, which you can find on the Hobby Lobby website.

Next, you'll want to adjust your printer settings. Begin by checking the paper size and type settings. Ensure that the paper size selected matches the size of your paper, otherwise, your print may be misaligned. For instance, most Avery labels come on an A4 sheet, but some printer defaults are set to "US Letter size". Additionally, change the "paper type" or "media type" setting to "Labels" to slow down the printing speed and reduce the risk of misalignment. If your printer doesn't have a "Labels" option, you can select "Cardstock", "Heavyweight", or "Premium" instead.

The page scaling setting is another important factor. This should always be set to 100% or "Actual Size". Avoid using the "fit to page" option, as it will shrink your design and result in misaligned prints.

Now, you're ready to perform a test print on your regular piece of paper. Follow the instructions provided by your printer manufacturer to feed the paper into the printer correctly. Once you've done this, return to your computer and click "Print Yourself", followed by "Print Now".

After your test print is complete, carefully examine it. Check if the words are printing off-center or if any adjustments are needed to the margins, spacing, or alignment. If you notice any issues, make the necessary changes to your printer settings and repeat the test print process until you achieve the desired result.

By following these steps and testing on regular paper first, you can fine-tune your printer settings and ensure that your wedding invitations from Hobby Lobby look exactly the way you want them to.

Paper type: choose laser jet or inkjet paper depending on your printer

When it comes to paper type, the choice between laser jet and inkjet paper depends on the type of printer you have and the desired look of your wedding invitations. Laser printers are ideal for printing documents with lots of text, whereas inkjet printers offer superior results when printing detailed images or intricate fonts. If you want to print intricate fonts on your invitations, an inkjet printer is the best option.

Laser printers use toner, which is essentially powdered plastic, and require the correct print settings when printing on thicker paper stock. If the settings are not adjusted properly, the toner may flake and appear uneven. On the other hand, inkjet printers use ink and are better suited for porous papers that absorb ink well.

It is important to note that not all printers can handle thicker papers like cardstock. Therefore, it is crucial to check the printer specifications and ensure compatibility with your chosen paper type. Pay close attention to the weight of your stationery, typically identified in lbs., points, or GSM, as this can impact the printing results.

To ensure your wedding invitations look exactly as you envision, consider the level of detail in your design and choose the appropriate paper type that is compatible with your printer. By selecting the right combination of printer and paper type, you can achieve the desired look and feel for your invitations.

Wording: be clear about who, what, when and where

When it comes to the wording of your wedding invitations, it's important to be clear and concise about who is getting married, what the occasion is, when the event will take place, and where it will be held. Here are some tips to help you craft the perfect invitation wording:

Who:

The wedding invitation should include the names of the couple getting married. Traditionally, the bride's name precedes the groom's name. However, for same-sex couples, you can choose the order based on alphabetical order or what sounds better. If the bride's parents are hosting, the invitation can refer to her by her first and middle names, while the groom is referred to by his full name and title.

It is also common to include the names of the hosts, usually the parents of the couple. If both sets of parents are contributing, you can use phrases like "Together with their parents" or "Together with their families." If you wish to honour a deceased parent, you can include their name alongside the couple's, such as "Lauren Martinez, daughter of Marta Martinez and the late Robert Martinez."

What:

Clearly state the purpose of the invitation, which is to invite guests to your wedding celebration. You can use various phrases to request the honour of your guests' presence, such as "request the pleasure of your company," "invite you to celebrate with them," or "would love for you to join them."

When:

Provide the date and time of the wedding ceremony. Traditionally, the date and time are spelled out in full. For example, "Saturday, the fifteenth of September, two thousand twenty-one, at half-past four in the afternoon." The day of the week and the month should be capitalised, and the year should be in lowercase.

Where:

Include the name of the wedding venue and its city and state. The street address is usually not needed unless it is a private residence or its omission may cause confusion. The zip code is typically omitted. If the reception is at the same location, you can simply state, "Reception to follow." If it is at a different venue, provide the location details on a separate line or a reception card included with the invitation.

Additionally, you may want to include other relevant information, such as the dress code and wedding website, on separate cards within the invitation suite.

Design: consider adding an engagement photo

When designing your wedding invitations, you may want to consider adding an engagement photo. This is a great way to personalise your invites and make them even more special. There are a few ways to do this, depending on the style of your invitations and your preferred method of printing.

One option is to choose a DIY invitation template from Hobby Lobby that includes a flap, such as the Burlap Ribbon & Lace Vellum Wedding Invitation. You can then place your engagement photo under the flap, adding a sweet surprise for your guests as they open the invite. This method allows you to include your photo without altering the template design.

Alternatively, you can incorporate your engagement photo directly into the invitation design. Hobby Lobby offers a range of customisable templates, allowing you to add your own text, images, and other design elements. You can upload your engagement photo to the template and adjust its placement and size to fit the overall design. This option gives you more flexibility in showcasing your photo and creating a unique invitation.

Before printing your invitations, it is essential to do a test print. Use a regular piece of paper cut to the size of the invitation to ensure that your design, including the photo, is aligned correctly. This step will help you make any necessary adjustments to the template, such as using the space bar to centre the text or moving the lines of the template up or down using the ruler on the left side of the screen. By fine-tuning these settings, you can ensure that your invitations print perfectly.

Additionally, consider the thickness of your paper when printing at home. Some users have reported issues with thicker paper not feeding properly through their printers. In such cases, you may need to use a better-quality printer or opt for a professional printing service.

With careful planning, attention to detail, and a bit of creativity, you can design elegant and personalised wedding invitations that beautifully showcase your engagement photo.

Printing: print at home or use a local print shop

Printing your wedding invitations at home is a cost-effective option for couples who don't mind a bit of DIY. It's also a good choice if you're looking for more control over the final look of your invitations. However, printing at home can be time-consuming and may not always be the fastest option. Here are some things to consider if you're thinking of printing your wedding invitations at home:

• Paper type and size: Choose a paper type and size that is compatible with your home printer. Thicker cardstock or paper with a textured finish, such as linen or felt, can give your invitations a luxurious feel. Test different paper samples on your printer to ensure a good fit.
• Ink usage: The cost of ink can add up, especially if you choose a design with a colourful background or white font. Consider designs with more white space and lighter colour backgrounds to optimise ink usage.
• Printer settings: Familiarise yourself with your printer's settings and manual to ensure proper loading and alignment. You may need to make adjustments to the margins or other settings to get the desired results.
• Proofreading: Before printing, proofread your invitations for any errors or mistakes. Consider having a third party review the text for an extra pair of eyes.
• Envelopes: Select envelopes that fit your invitation size and allow for a bit of room. Consider adding envelope liners or choosing a coloured envelope to dress up your invitations.
• Assembly: For clean cuts, use a paper cutter with a sharp blade. Glue dots or double-stick tape can be useful for assembling layers or adding envelope liners.
• Postage: Take a complete invitation to the post office to get an accurate weight and calculate postage. Mention any special requests, such as hand-cancelling, to ensure your invitations arrive safely.

Alternatively, using a local print shop or online printing service is a convenient option that can save you time and hassle. Here are some benefits of using a local print shop:

• Professional results: Print shops have the expertise and equipment to ensure your invitations look polished and professional. They can help you select the best paper for your design and provide a consistent finish.
• Efficiency: Printing services often offer quick turnaround times, with some shops providing same-day or next-day printing. This can be especially useful if you're working with a tight timeline.
• Customisation: Many print shops offer customisation options, allowing you to personalise your invitations further. This may include foil printing, UV printing, or digital printing techniques.
• Support: Print shops can provide guidance on paper selection, weight, and other technical aspects to ensure your invitations turn out as expected.
• Convenience: By delegating the printing task, you free up time and energy for other wedding planning activities.

When deciding whether to print your wedding invitations at home or use a local print shop, consider your budget, time constraints, and desired level of customisation. Both options offer unique advantages, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions