Creating Wedding Invitations With Open Office: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding? One of the first things you'll need to do is send out invitations to your guests. You can easily make your own wedding invitations using a platform like Microsoft Word, OpenOffice, or Canva. These platforms offer invitation templates that you can customize with your wedding details. You can also upload your own designs and print them at home or through a professional printing service. When designing your invitations, consider the style, wording, paper type, envelopes, and printing costs. Give yourself plenty of time to plan, print, and assemble your invitations before sending them out to your guests.

Using a template

One option is to use the "Wedding Invitation_1" template from Apache OpenOffice Templates. This template has an A5 (14.80 X 21 cm) international paper size and features a grunge background and retro style. It is totally customizable, so you can add your own text, colours, and images.

Another option is to use a template from Canva. Canva has hundreds of editable wedding invitation templates to choose from, suitable for any wedding theme. You can personalise your invitations by including a photo of you and your partner, and you can even choose the type of paper and finish you want. Once you've customised your design, you can send it to print directly within Canva, and they will deliver the invitations and envelopes to your doorstep within days.

Customising the template

Firstly, you will want to select a template that suits the occasion. You can then edit the text to include the event name, date, time, venue, and any other details you want to include. You can also adjust the graphics and art on the template by dragging the images around or replacing them with your own images.

If you are using a blank template, you can insert your own images and graphics by clicking the "Insert" tab and selecting "Insert Picture" or "Insert Clip Art". You can then move the images around and resize them as needed.

You can also add text by using the "Text Box" feature or simply typing the information into the document. You can change the text font, size, colour, and style as desired.

Once you are happy with the design, be sure to save the invitation as a Word 97-2003 Document to ensure compatibility with all MS Word versions.

If you want to add a personal touch, consider using a design that "bleeds" for a professional look. This means creating a design that reaches the edge of the paper with no white margins. You can also choose a paper type that suits your design, such as a linen or felt texture.

Finally, don't forget to select envelopes that fit your invitations and add any embellishments or inserts you desire.

Selecting paper and envelopes

When selecting paper and envelopes for your wedding invitations, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you achieve the look and feel you desire. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:

Paper Weight and Thickness

The weight and thickness of the paper, also known as cardstock, can vary significantly for wedding invitations. It is essential to choose a weight that is compatible with your printing method and that suits your preferred design. If you plan to print your invitations at home, check your printer's specifications to determine the maximum paper weight it can handle. Typically, home printers can manage 80lb (216gsm) to 100lb (270gsm) cardstock. However, it's always a good idea to consult your printer manual for specific recommendations.

If you opt for a professional print shop, they will have different equipment and capabilities, so be sure to inquire about their paper weight, thickness, and texture limitations. For flat invitation cards, choose a heavier weight cardstock of 80lb cover or higher. Folding invitation cards, on the other hand, call for a lighter weight paper, typically between 65lb and 100lb cover.

Printing Process

The printing process you choose will also influence your paper selection. Some common printing methods include:

• Offset printing: This method uses metal plates to transfer ink to rubber rollers and then onto the paper. It offers consistent quality and can print on a variety of paper surfaces and weights.
• Thermography: This technique creates raised prints that can be felt. It involves applying embossing powder to wet ink and then heating the paper to raise the design. Thermography is often used for traditional, elegant invitation styles.
• Letterpress: Letterpress printing uses plates, hand-set type, and ink to press a design onto or into the paper. It provides a unique tactile element and can print on various paper weights, finishes, and textures.
• Digital printing: This economical method uses ink or toner to recreate a design on paper without plates or rollers. It is suitable for printing on a wide range of paper and envelope weights.

Invitation Style

Consider the style of your wedding invitations when selecting the paper weight. If you opt for a flat invitation card, a heavier weight cardstock will add a luxurious feel. Folding invitation cards, on the other hand, require lighter-weight paper since they will be twice as thick after folding. Layered invitation cards offer more flexibility, allowing you to mix and match different paper weights.

Postage Costs

Keep in mind that the weight of your invitation cardstock will impact postage costs. Invitations over 1 ounce will require additional postage, so choosing a lighter-weight paper can help keep costs down. Always bring a finished invitation to your local post office to determine the accurate postage required.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice of paper and envelope comes down to your personal preference. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others opt for lighter, thinner stock. Select the paper that aligns with your design vision and budget constraints.

Adding text and graphics

Choose Your Template

First, select a template that suits your wedding's theme and style. You can browse through various options online, including free downloadable templates specifically designed for OpenOffice. These templates will have the basic layout and design elements already in place, making it easier for you to customise. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Do you prefer a simple and elegant look, or something bold and colourful? Perhaps a watercolour motif or rustic design?

Customise the Template

Once you've chosen your template, it's time to make it your own. Customise the text by adding the essential details such as the event name, date, time, venue, and any other relevant information. You can also edit the font style, size, and colour to match your theme. Play around with different fonts and colours until you find a combination that reflects your style.

Insert Graphics and Images

In addition to text, you can enhance your invitations with graphics and images. If the template doesn't include the graphics you want, you can insert your own. Click on the "Insert" tab and select "Insert Picture" to add your own images. You can also use the "Insert Clip Art" feature to explore and add clipart images available in MS Word. Resize and reposition the graphics as needed by clicking and dragging them to your desired location.

Finalise and Save

Before finalising your design, review the invitation for any errors or typos. Read it aloud to catch any grammar mistakes, and consider having someone else proofread it as well. Once you're satisfied, save your work by going to "File" and then "Save As". Choose "Word 97-2003 Document" as the file type to ensure compatibility with all MS Word versions.

Print or Share

Now that you've designed your invitations, you can either print them at home or take the saved file to a professional printing shop. If printing at home, use high-quality paper or cardstock to give your invitations a luxurious feel. You can also add embellishments like envelope liners or belly bands for a finishing touch. Don't forget to purchase envelopes that fit your invitations, and consider choosing a colour that complements your suite.

Remember to give yourself enough time when creating and printing your invitations. It's always a good idea to print a few extras in case of mistakes or last-minute additions to your guest list. Happy designing!

Saving and printing

Once you're happy with your wedding invitation design, it's time to save and print. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Saving Your Work

• Click "File" at the top toolbar and select "Save As".
• Choose a folder to save your invitation file. It's a good idea to create a specific folder for your wedding invitations so that you can easily locate the file.
• Name your file. Using a clear naming convention will make it easier to find and identify the file. For example, you could name the file "Wedding_Invitation_V1" or "Wedding_Invite_Template".
• Save the file as a "Word 97-2003 Document". This will ensure your invitation is compatible with all MS Word versions.
• Check that your file has been saved correctly by locating it in the folder you selected. Open the file to ensure that all your design elements and text are in place.

Printing Your Invitations

• Before printing, double-check that all the information on the invitation is correct. It's a good idea to have someone else proofread the invitation to catch any errors you might have missed.
• Check that your printer is set up correctly and has enough ink. If you're using a home printer, print a test page to ensure the colours and alignment are correct. Adjust the printer settings as needed.
• Load your chosen paper into the printer. If you're using a thicker cardstock, ensure your printer can accommodate this type of paper.
• Print one invitation as a test to ensure it looks as expected. Check that the colours, text, and alignment are correct and make any necessary adjustments to your design or printer settings.
• Once you're happy with the test print, print the remaining invitations.
• Allow the ink to dry completely before handling the invitations to avoid smudging.
• If you're printing a large number of invitations, it may be more cost-effective to use a professional printing service. Compare prices and services offered by different printers to find the best option for your needs.

Frequently asked questions