Creative Ways To Reuse Wedding Invitations For Other Purposes

Wedding invitations are often meticulously designed and hold a lot of sentimental value, so it's no surprise that many couples look for ways to reuse and preserve them. Whether you have extras or want to repurpose the ones you received, there are plenty of creative options to consider. From framing the invitation as a keepsake to sending them to celebrities, crafting Christmas ornaments, or even turning them into plates or keepsake boxes, there are numerous ways to ensure your wedding invitations continue to bring joy long after the big day.

Frame it

Framing your wedding invitation is a great way to preserve it as a cherished keepsake. Here are some detailed steps and ideas to help you with the process:

Firstly, decide whether you want to frame the invitation yourself or enlist the help of a professional. If you choose to do it yourself, you can purchase a double invitation frame or a standard picture frame that fits the dimensions of your invitation. Consider adding a special touch, such as pressing and including a petal from your wedding bouquet alongside the invitation.

If you opt for professional framing, you can explore services that specialise in preserving wedding invitations, ensuring they use high-quality materials to protect your precious memory. You might even include other mementos, such as a photo or a pressed flower, in the frame to create a unique display.

Another creative framing idea is to use the back design of your invitation as a border. If your invitation has a pretty pattern or design on the reverse, framing it this way can add a unique touch to your display. You could also frame your invitation alongside other wedding stationery, such as the RSVP card or envelope lining, to create a cohesive display.

Lastly, consider where you would like to display your framed invitation. A common choice is to hang it in your dining room or kitchen, where it can spark conversations with guests and serve as a daily reminder of your special day. Alternatively, you could place it in your bedroom or a home office, creating a more private and intimate reminder of your wedding memories.

Turn it into a Christmas ornament

There are several ways to turn your wedding invitation into a Christmas ornament. Here are some ideas to get you started:

The Paper Curl Method:

This method involves cutting your wedding invitation into thin strips, being careful to preserve important words and dates. You can then curl these strips using scissors, similar to how you would curl a ribbon. Once curled, you can insert the paper curls into a clear glass or plastic ornament. This creates a beautiful, personalised ornament with your wedding details visible inside. You can even add some glitter to the inside of the ornament for some extra sparkle. Finish it off with a ribbon or a bow, and you have a wonderful keepsake to hang on your tree each year.

The Copper Ornament:

Another option is to turn your wedding invitation into a copper ornament. You can send a photo or the original invitation to a specialty shop, and they will create a custom ornament for you. The invitation design is adhered to 100% natural leather material and coated with a U/V protective coating to ensure its durability. This is a great idea for a seventh-anniversary gift, and you can enjoy it every year when you decorate your Christmas tree.

Beach-Inspired Ornament:

For a beach-themed ornament, you can follow a similar process to the paper curl method. Cut your wedding invitation into thin strips, and then paint the topper of the ornament in a colour of your choice. You can use ribbon or raffia for a tropical feel. This is a unique way to commemorate your wedding and add a personalised touch to your holiday decorations.

No matter which method you choose, turning your wedding invitation into a Christmas ornament is a creative and meaningful way to preserve your special day. It's also a great way to ensure you have a unique ornament for your first Christmas as a married couple.

Create an eco-friendly display

If you're looking to create an eco-friendly display with your wedding invitations, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Plantable Seed Paper Invitations

Create an eco-friendly and unique display by using plantable seed paper for your invitations. This special type of paper is biodegradable and contains wildflower, vegetable, or herb seeds. After the wedding, you and your guests can plant the invitations and watch them grow into beautiful flowers, vegetables, or herbs. This reduces waste and gives your guests a lasting memory of your special day. You can even include gardening tips on the invitations to guide your guests through the planting process.

Recycled Paper Invitations

Opt for invitations made from recycled paper, which helps reduce the need for new paper production and minimizes waste. Recycled paper invitations come in various colors, textures, and finishes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your wedding theme. You can also use post-consumer paper, which is made from 100% waste paper, further reducing the environmental impact. Materials like recovered newspaper or downstream paper are great choices as they require no additional processing.

Digital Invitations

In the digital age, sending out digital wedding invitations is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper invitations. Digital invitations can be personalized, interactive, and easily shared with guests via email or wedding websites. They eliminate the need for printing and mailing, reducing waste and saving resources. Digital invitations are also budget-friendly and convenient for tracking RSVPs. You can even create a dedicated website for your wedding, allowing guests to ask questions, interact, and RSVP directly on the site.

Reusable Invitations

Consider choosing reusable invitations that can be used beyond the wedding day. For example, you can repurpose them as home decor, such as framing them for display, or using them as bookmarks. This reduces waste and gives your invitations a second life.

Alternative Materials

If you're looking for a unique and eco-friendly option, you can explore alternatives to traditional paper. Vellum paper, for instance, is a transparent paper made from the same fibers as regular paper. When sourced from an environmentally friendly paper mill, vellum can be easily recycled and may even be FSC-certified. It gives your invitations a clear and elegant look while being kind to the environment.

Remember, by choosing eco-friendly wedding invitations, you're not only reducing your carbon footprint but also making a statement about your commitment to the environment. Your guests will surely appreciate your thoughtful and sustainable choice!

Turn it into a decoupage plate

Decoupage is a great way to repurpose your wedding invitations and create a unique, personalised keepsake. Decoupage involves decorating a surface with paper cut-outs, and in this case, you can use your wedding invitations to create a beautiful plate. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to turn your wedding invitations into a decoupage plate:

Prepare Your Materials

You will need:

• A plate – choose a plain plate made of ceramic, glass, or wood.
• Your wedding invitations – you may want to cut out specific designs or elements that you want to feature on the plate.
• Decoupage glue or Mod Podge – this is a specific type of glue that acts as a sealer and finish.
• Paintbrushes – have a variety of sizes for different areas of the plate.
• Scissors – to cut out the invitation pieces.
• Clear acrylic sealer spray (optional) – for an extra layer of protection.

Plan Your Design

Before you start gluing, plan out how you want your plate to look. Play around with the placement of the invitation pieces, considering any text, images, or patterns that you want to feature. You may want to cut out specific shapes or motifs from the invitations to create a collage-like design. Think about the overall composition and colour palette to ensure a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design.

Start Decoupaging

Once you have your design planned out, it's time to start gluing. Using your paintbrush, apply a thin layer of decoupage glue to the back of each invitation piece and carefully place it on the plate, smoothing out any bubbles or creases. Work in small sections and be careful not to overlap the pieces too much, as this may cause bulkiness. Continue gluing down the pieces, slightly overlapping them to create a seamless look.

Seal and Finish

Once you have covered the entire plate with your invitation pieces, apply a thin coat of decoupage glue over the entire surface, being careful not to move or tear the paper. This will act as a sealant and protect your design. Let it dry completely. If desired, you can apply a clear acrylic sealer spray for added protection and shine.

Care and Display

Your decoupage plate is now ready! You can display it on a plate stand or hanger, or use it as a decorative centrepiece. Note that this plate is not meant for direct food contact and should be used for decorative purposes only. Enjoy your one-of-a-kind keepsake that commemorates your special day!

Save it as a memento

There are many ways to save your wedding invitations as mementos. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Framing

Framing your invitation is a straightforward option. You can choose to do it yourself, or opt for a double invitation frame. If you want to add a special touch, consider framing the invitation with a petal from your bouquet.

Engraved Tray

Celebrate your new life together with an engraved sterling silver or pewter wedding invitation tray. Display this unique memento in your dining room or kitchen for years to come, and perhaps even pass it down to your children.

Keepsake Box

Create a glass wedding invitation keepsake box. You can preserve other special items, such as maps, reception cards, or photos, on the underside of the lid. This not only serves as a permanent display of your wedding day but also makes for a great conversation piece in your home.

Eco-Friendly Display

Turn your invitation into an eco-friendly display by mounting it on a piece of eco-friendly wood. Alternatively, you can scan your invite and have it printed and mounted for you.

Ornament

Transform your invitation into a special ornament to hang on your Christmas tree or display in your house. You can cut the invitation into strips, curl them around a pen, and insert them into a clear ornament. Add some glitter for a sparkly touch!

Heirloom

Save your wedding invitations as heirlooms to pass down to your children and future generations. They will treasure these tokens for years to come.

Frequently asked questions