Designing Draft-Proof Wedding Invitations For A Stress-Free Event

Wedding invitations are an important aspect of wedding planning, as they give guests a glimpse into what to expect from the big day. When it comes to choosing stationery, there are several options to consider, from high-end to cost-effective. The type of paper and printing style selected will depend on the couple's budget, desired level of formality, and personal preferences. Some popular options for wedding invitation paper include card and cover stock, cotton fiber, kraft and wood-grain paper, glassine and clear vellum paper, and acrylic. Each option offers a different look and feel, allowing couples to choose what best reflects their style and theme of their wedding. In terms of printing styles, options such as engraving, embossing, foil stamping, letterpress, UV printing, and thermographic printing can be considered, each offering a unique effect and level of customisation.

What to include in a wedding invitation

A wedding invitation suite consists of all the paper goods sent along with the wedding invitation. While the invitation itself is the most important aspect of your wedding stationery, there are several other elements that should be included to ensure your guests have all the information they need. Here is a detailed list of what to include in a wedding invitation:

The Invitation

The invitation card should include the following key details:

• Host of the wedding (bride's parents, both families, etc.)
• Names of the couple (for heterosexual couples, the woman's name typically goes first, but the order can be changed as desired)
• Date and time of the ceremony
• Venue name and location
• Attire/dress code (optional)

Response Card and Envelope

A response card is a separate card included with the invitation to allow guests to RSVP. It should include:

• Reply-by date
• Space for guests to write their names
• Response options (e.g., "accepts with pleasure" or "declines with regret")
• Space for guests to indicate their meal preference, if applicable
• Pre-addressed and stamped envelope for guests' convenience

Reception Card (Optional)

If the wedding reception is at a different location from the ceremony, include a separate card with the reception information, including the time and address.

Directions/Map (Optional)

Include a direction card or custom map, especially if the venue is unique or difficult to find.

Weekend Events Card (Optional)

If your wedding spans multiple events over a weekend, include a full itinerary for guests, such as welcome drinks, after-party, and day-after brunch.

Accommodations Card (Optional)

Provide a separate card with hotel options for guests coming from out of town. Include booking information and transportation details, if relevant.

Invitation Wrapper (Optional)

Use an invitation wrapper, such as a belly band or silk ribbon, to hold all the pieces of the invitation suite together.

Other Considerations

• Envelope—Include both an outer envelope with the recipient's address and postage, and an inner envelope with the title and last name of the invitees.
• Save-the-Date Cards—These are not required but are a nice gesture, especially for weddings near holidays or with many out-of-town guests.
• Wedding Website—While not included in the physical invitation suite, a wedding website is a helpful resource for guests and can include important details such as accommodations, registry info, and more.

Choosing the right paper for your printer

When it comes to choosing the right paper for your printer, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of your paper is crucial. Different printers can accommodate specific paper sizes, so ensure that your printer can handle the paper size you intend to use. The standard size for regular printer paper is 8.5" x 11".

Brightness, or whiteness, is another important aspect. It refers to how light interacts with the page and affects the sharpness of text or images. Brighter papers enhance colour accuracy but can wash out softer and lighter colours. Lower brightness, on the other hand, can add richness to colours but may reduce their sharpness.

The shade of your paper is also significant. True white, a neutral white tone, reflects blue-spectrum light, while cream white shades reflect warmer light for a softer look. For monochrome photographers, the choice between these shades is a matter of personal taste. However, for colour photographers, the white balance of the paper can significantly impact print colours.

Weight refers to the thickness and heft of the paper. Standard weight paper is suitable for everyday office use as it is more affordable and easier to manoeuvre in printers. However, heavier weight paper, also known as card stock, is recommended for business cards, postcards, and greeting cards as it provides extra sturdiness.

Additionally, the finish of the paper is worth considering. Glossy finishes create vibrant colours and high-contrast sharpness but are susceptible to dust and fingerprints. Semi-gloss finishes, such as satin or pearl, offer a balance between gloss and matte. Matte paper, on the other hand, lacks a glossy coat and comes in various textures, making it ideal for rich and deep dark tones.

Lastly, consider the fibre content and recycled matter of the paper. Higher-quality papers for formal occasions often contain a percentage of cotton, adding texture and visual appeal. Recycled paper, on the other hand, is designed for everyday use and to reduce your carbon footprint. While some argue that recycled paper leads to more paper jams, improvements in recycling technology are mitigating this concern.

Cardstock weight

The cardstock weight you choose for your wedding invitations will depend on a few factors, such as your printing process, invitation style, postage costs, and personal preference.

Printing Process

The printing process is an important factor in determining the kind of cardstock to use. If you are printing your invitations at home, you need to consider the paper weight capabilities of your home printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb (216gsm) to 100lb (270gsm) cardstock, but not all. Be sure to consult your printer manual for cardstock printing information and recommendations.

If you are using a professional print shop, you should contact them to learn about their equipment, print processes, and capabilities. Be sure they can accommodate your paper's weight, thickness, and texture. It's a good idea to bring samples to discuss.

Invitation Style

The style and composition of your invitations will also influence the cardstock weight you choose. Flat invitation cards, for example, are typically made with heavier cardstock, usually 80lb cover and up. In contrast, folding invitation cards are made with lighter cardstock, typically between 65lb and 100lb cover.

Postage

Another consideration is postage costs. Any invite weighing over 1 ounce will require additional postage. If you want to keep postage costs down, choose a lighter cardstock for your invitations.

Preference

Finally, personal preference plays a role in choosing cardstock weight. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others prefer lighter, thinner stock. Ultimately, the choice is yours and should be based on what works best for your design and budget.

• 80-90lb: Ideal for most home printers. Can go through most desktop printers without issues.
• 100lb: Can go through some home printers but may cause problems in others. Gives invitations a professional look while still allowing for standard postage rates.
• 110-130lb: The heaviest weight you can probably print yourself, possibly requiring industrial printers. Gives invitations a very professional look.
• 150lb and up: Should be reserved for professional printers, embossers, and letterpress printing.

Types of invitation paper

When it comes to choosing invitation paper, couples have a wide range of options, from high-end to cost-effective. Here are some of the most popular types of invitation paper:

Card and Cover Stock

All wedding invitations should be printed on card stock, which is thick, heavy paper that gives a luxurious and elegant feel. The weight and finish of the paper can vary, with the most common weight being 120 pounds, and finishes including unfinished, satin, silk, and glossy. Smooth matte paper with a linen texture is a popular choice, as it adds a subtle touch of elegance to the invitation.

Cotton Paper

Cotton paper is the most expensive option, made from 100% cotton, giving it a super soft feel with no imperfections. It is incredibly durable and responds well to ink, making it a good choice for invitations with coloured designs.

Kraft and Wood-Grain Paper

Kraft and wood-grain paper are perfect for rustic or outdoor-themed weddings. They give a DIY, intimate feel to the invitation and can be paired with live edges for a handmade touch.

Vellum

Vellum is a translucent, frosted paper that is commonly used in layered invitations or as belly bands. It adds depth and interest to the invitation suite without being too bulky.

Glassine and Clear Vellum Paper

Glassine and clear vellum paper are flexible, thin, and translucent materials that can be used to create borders or accents in the invitation design. They can also be used for belly bands or as envelopes for a unique touch.

Pearlescent Paper

Pearlescent paper has a shimmery finish that adds elegance and a soft glow to the invitation, especially if a photograph is included.

Board Wedding Invitation

Board wedding invitations are made with three layers of paper and have a cotton texture, ensuring that they are sturdy and won't bend in the mail.

Types of wedding invitation printing

Wedding invitations are one of the most important aspects of wedding stationery. They set the tone for the wedding and provide essential information for guests. There are various printing options available to create elegant and informative wedding invitations. Here are some of the most common types of wedding invitation printing:

• Digital printing: This method allows for full-colour ink to match your wedding theme and can be customised in terms of size, stock, weight, ink and finish. It offers flexibility in design and is a popular choice for couples who want to include photographs or other visual elements on their invitations.
• Letterpress printing: Letterpress printing creates a timeless and elegant look for wedding invitations. It involves pressing paper onto ink-coated plates, resulting in a textured and three-dimensional appearance. This technique is often chosen for formal or traditional weddings.
• Foil stamping: Foil stamping adds a luxurious touch to wedding invitations. It involves applying metallic foil to the paper, creating a shiny and elegant finish. Foil stamping is commonly used for accenting specific design elements, such as monograms or borders.
• Embossing and debossing: Embossing and debossing create a raised or recessed design on the paper, respectively. These techniques add a subtle yet sophisticated dimension to wedding invitations. They can be used to highlight important details or create a textured pattern.
• Thermography printing: Thermography printing uses a combination of ink and powder to create a raised effect on the paper. It is similar to letterpress printing but tends to be more affordable. Thermography invitations have a sleek and elegant appearance.
• Engraving: Engraving is a traditional and sophisticated printing technique. It involves carving the text or design into a metal plate, which is then pressed into the paper, resulting in raised lettering or patterns. Engraving is often chosen for formal or upscale weddings.
• Offset printing: Offset printing is a common method for producing high-quality invitations in large quantities. It involves transferring ink from a plate to a rubber blanket and then onto the paper. This technique offers consistent results and is suitable for various paper types.
• Online printing services: Many online platforms, such as Vistaprint, Canva, and Smartpress, offer custom wedding invitation printing services. These services provide a range of templates, customisation options, and affordable pricing. They are convenient choices for couples who want to design and order their invitations online.

When choosing a printing method, consider the overall style and theme of your wedding, as well as your budget and the level of customisation desired. It is always a good idea to request samples or proofs before finalising your order to ensure that the invitations meet your expectations.

Frequently asked questions