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Traditional wedding invitation styles were either white or ivory paper with black ink... and always engraved! Today, many brides still want the elegant and formal look of the "traditional wedding invitation", but for others that want something different - the choices are endless!
Your wedding invites are the first thing your guests will see, so
they should set the tone and theme of your wedding day - formal, semi-formal, or casual. So, here's a quick lesson about invitations.
What you will need for your wedding invites:
- The outer invitation envelope
- An invitation
- A reception card
- A response card
- Another envelope for the response card
- Information for guests on where to stay, how to get there and important phone numbers
- Detailed directions with addresses and for the church and reception
Wedding Invite StylesEngraved Invites
Engraving is an age old process where the paper is stamped with a mold, leaving an indentation or imprint on the paper. Ink is then applied to the imprint and allowed to dry.
Engraved invites are by far the most difficult to prepare, which can make them the most expensive option. You should also plan on about six weeks, or more, for delivery of the final product once you've approved the design and content. Engraved invitations are more popular for formal weddings.
Thermographed Invites
Thermography is a popular alternative to engraved invites today and is less expensive then engraving. Thermographed invitations are prepared by using a glue based solution to set the lettering and design of your invitations.
Then ink and very fine powder, or "dust", is applied to the glue based solution and heated. As the drying process takes place, the lettering becomes raised and gives an attractive and elegant look. |
Printed Invites:
Another cost effective solution is printed invitations. Most professional printers offer a wide array of selection and styles. Turnaround times for printed invites are better than most other alternatives as well.
Calligraphed Invites
Calligraphy is elegant and stylish and gives a flair of the "old fashioned". Usually special training is required for that "perfect Calligraphy" look. You should allow plenty of time if you choose to go this route. Take note that Calligraphy ink is NOT waterproof and may smudge at any sign of moisture.
Hand Colored Invites
Take a basic invitation can add flair, style and a personal touch of your own. This approach is almost always gives a unique and inner glimpse of you and your fiancé! Hand colored invitations may also be nice for personal and close weddings
Box Set Invites
Quick and easy, boxed set invitations come essentially prepared for you, in a wide array of designs and styles. It's then up to you what you add and how you "dress them up" and what the end result is.
Minted.com have an excellent selection of wedding invitations - and will even offer free shipping if you use the code FREESHIP2011 with your order :) |
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