The Perfect Wedding Invitation: Printing Tips And Tricks

Wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of your upcoming celebration, so it's important to get them right. There are many options available for printing wedding invitations, from dedicated stationery companies to local print shops and even large retailers. You can also design your own invitations and then have them printed. This gives you the freedom to customise your invitations to your exact specifications, but it can be a complex process.

Choosing a template and customising your design

Choosing a Template:

• Consider your wedding theme: Think about the style and theme of your wedding. Are you going for a rustic, vintage, modern, or minimalist look? Choose a template that complements your wedding's overall aesthetic.
• Explore design options: Browse through the hundreds of professionally designed templates offered by various online platforms. These templates come in different styles, including modern, vintage, rustic, chic, and more. Take your time to explore the options and select a few that catch your eye.
• Match your personality: Your wedding invitation should reflect your personality and the love story you share with your partner. Look for templates that resonate with your story and allow you to incorporate meaningful symbols, quotes, or photos.

Customising Your Design:

• Upload your photos: Many templates allow you to upload your photos and feature them on the invitation. This adds a personal touch and makes your invitation unique.
• Play with fonts and colours: Customise the fonts and colours of your invitation to match your style. You can choose from a variety of font styles and adjust the colour, size, or layout to make your text stand out.
• Add special effects: If you're sending digital invitations, consider adding animated effects to your design. This can make your invitation more engaging and memorable.
• Include all the necessary information: Don't forget to include the essential details such as the full names of the couple, the date, time, and locations of the wedding and reception, RSVP information, and any other relevant details your guests may need.
• Order a sample: Before finalising your design, consider ordering a printed sample to see how your invitation looks and feels. This will allow you to make any necessary adjustments and ensure that your invitation meets your expectations.

Remember, your wedding invitation is a reflection of your special day, so take the time to choose a template and customise it to showcase your personality and style.

Selecting the right paper

Paper Weight

The weight of the paper, measured in pounds or grams per square metre (gsm), is an important factor to consider. The standard weights for wedding invitation paper range from 65lb (176gsm) to 222lb (600gsm) and higher. The right weight for your invitations will depend on various factors, such as your printing process, invitation style, and postage cost.

For home printing, most consumer-grade printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock. However, it's important to consult your printer manual to determine its specific capabilities. If you're using a professional print shop, consider methods like offset printing, thermography, letterpress printing, or digital printing, each with its own recommended paper weight range.

Invitation Style

The style of your invitation also plays a role in choosing the right paper weight. Flat invitation cards, being a single sheet, typically use heavier cardstock of 80lb and above. Folding invitation cards, on the other hand, are made with lighter stock, usually between 65lb and 100lb, as they double in thickness when folded.

If you're creating layered invitations, it's recommended to keep the top layer light (80lb or less) and attach it to a heavier card. The backer or pocket can be as heavy as you like since it won't be printed on. Remember to keep the overall bulk in mind, especially if you have three or more layers.

Postage Cost

Another consideration when choosing paper weight is the cost of postage. Invitations weighing over 1 ounce will require additional postage. To keep postage costs down, opt for lighter paper weights. Always bring a finished invitation to the post office to determine the exact postage required.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice of paper weight depends on your personal preference. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others prefer lighter, thinner stock. Choose the weight that feels right for your invitations and aligns with your design and budget.

Paper Type

In addition to weight, there are several types of paper to choose from for your wedding invitations:

• Cotton paper is a popular choice for its soft feel, strength, and durability. It absorbs ink well, resulting in rich colours. Cotton paper gives invitations a clean and classic look but can be a bit pricey. Opting for a cotton blend can be a more affordable option.
• Linen paper has a semi-rough texture that resembles fine linen fabric. It is subtle, traditional, and timeless, often chosen for its elegant look. Linen paper is perfect for a classic, luxurious finish.
• Vellum is a thin, sheer, and translucent paper, adding a soft, frosted touch to your invitations. It can be used as a layer on top of the invitation or for printing directly onto it.
• Recycled paper, such as kraft cardstock, is a low-cost and eco-friendly option made from repurposed materials. It comes in various textures, colours, and thicknesses, making it ideal for natural or rustic-themed weddings.

Remember to order paper samples to evaluate the weight, colour, and texture before making your final decision.

Buying ink in bulk

Printing your wedding invitations at home can be a great way to save money and add a personal touch. However, it's important to consider the costs of materials, such as ink and paper. Here are some tips for buying ink in bulk for your DIY wedding invitations:

• Estimate Your Ink Usage: Before purchasing ink in bulk, it's important to estimate how much ink you will need. Consider the number of invitations you plan to print and the complexity of the design. If your design includes a lot of colour or coverage, you will likely need more ink.
• Choose the Right Ink Type: Different printers use different types of ink, so it's important to ensure you select the correct ink for your printer. Check your printer's manual or the manufacturer's website to determine the compatible ink type.
• Compare Prices and Suppliers: Shop around to compare prices and find the best deal. Look for suppliers that offer bulk discounts or subscription plans. Some companies, such as HP and Canon, offer ink subscription services that deliver ink directly to your door when you need it. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option.
• Consider the Storage and Shelf Life of Ink: Ink can have a shelf life, so it's important to consider how you will store it and how long it will last. Bulk purchases may come in larger containers, so ensure you have a dedicated storage space to maintain the ink's quality.
• Test and Experiment: Before committing to a large purchase, consider testing different inks to find the best quality and colour match for your invitations. This will help ensure that you are happy with the final printed result.
• Read Reviews: Research and read reviews from other customers who have purchased ink in bulk. This can give you insights into the quality, reliability, and longevity of the ink, as well as any potential issues or problems.

By following these tips, you can make informed decisions when buying ink in bulk for your wedding invitation printing project. Remember to also consider the type of paper you will be using, as different papers may have varying ink absorption and printing results.

Printing options

There are many printing options available for wedding invitations, ranging from online services to local print shops. Some popular online services include VistaPrint, Minted, Canva, Smartpress, and Zola. These services offer customizable templates, various printing types, and paper options. They also provide features such as free recipient addressing and the ability to match your wedding website to your invitation design. Some services, like Minted, offer free sample kits so you can see and feel the paper quality before placing your order.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider printing at stores like Walmart, Staples, or FedEx. These stores offer printing services that can be ready as soon as the next day, and you can pick them up in-store. However, keep in mind that the print quality may vary between stores, and they might not offer the same level of expertise as dedicated print shops.

For those who want a more personalized touch, local print shops can be a great option. They often provide high-quality printing and are more likely to pay attention to the finer details of your invitations. Additionally, they can work with you to ensure the colours and cuts are precise.

When choosing a printing option, it's essential to consider your budget, timeline, and desired level of customization. Online services may offer more design options and faster turnaround times, while local print shops can provide a more hands-on and tailored experience. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Envelopes

Envelope Sizing and Style

First, you'll need to choose the right size and style of envelope for your wedding invitations. Standard invitation envelope sizes include A7 (5" x 7") and A2 (4.25" x 5.5"). You can also choose from various flap styles, such as square flap, euro flap, and straight flap. Euro flap envelopes are a popular choice for weddings as they have a stylish, elegant look.

Envelope Colour and Material

Envelope Liners

Envelope liners add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wedding invitations. You can choose from various colours, patterns, and designs to match your wedding theme. Envelope liners can be purchased separately and inserted into your envelopes, or you can design and print your own custom liners.

Envelope Printing and Addressing

You can have your envelopes professionally printed with your return address, guest addresses, or both. This saves you time and ensures a neat and consistent appearance. Many companies offer digital calligraphy or custom font options for envelope printing. You can also choose to print only certain elements, such as your return address, and handwrite the guest addresses for a more personal touch.

Envelope Assembly and Insertion

When assembling your wedding invitations, carefully insert the invitation card and any enclosures, such as RSVP cards, into the envelope. You may also want to include a tissue paper layer to protect the invitation suite, especially if you have delicate embellishments or calligraphy. Finally, seal your envelopes with a matching envelope seal or a stamp.

Mailing and Timing

Be sure to weigh your assembled invitation suite to ensure you have the correct postage. Wedding invitations are typically mailed 6-8 weeks before the wedding. If you're expecting a lot of out-of-town guests, you may want to mail them even earlier to allow for travel arrangements.

Customization and Samples

Many companies offer customization services to help you create unique and personalized envelopes. You can also order envelope samples to see and feel the quality of the paper and printing before placing your final order.

Remember, the envelope is the first impression your guests will have of your wedding style, so choose an option that reflects your theme and personality!

Frequently asked questions