Wedding Invitation Design
This guide outlines the steps for designing wedding invitations that reflect the couple's style and adhere to traditional etiquette. It covers design considerations and wording guidelines to ensure the invitations are perfect for the big day.
Step 1: Inspiration Gathering
Start by collecting inspiration for your wedding invitations. Look at Pinterest, wedding magazines, and invitation designers' portfolios. Consider your wedding theme, colors, and formality level to guide your design preferences.
Step 2: Budget Setting
Determine your budget for wedding invitations. This will affect your choices in paper quality, printing methods, and any special embellishments or custom designs.
Step 3: Design Selection
Choose a design for your wedding invitations. This can range from pre-made templates to custom designs from a professional. Make sure the design resonates with the overall style and theme of your wedding.
Step 4: Wording Drafting
Draft the wording for your invitations. Common elements include the host line, request line, couple's names, date and time, location, and reception information. Follow traditional etiquette or personalize the wording to suit your wedding style.
Step 5: Proofreading
Proofread the invitation text carefully. Check for typos, correctness of date and time, and overall readability. It's advisable to have a second person review the text as well.
Step 6: Printing Orders
Place your printing order with a professional printer or printing service. Decide on the printing method, such as letterpress, foil stamping, or digital printing based on your design and budget.
Step 7: Assembly
Once printed, assemble the invitations. Include all additional elements like RSVP cards, accommodations card, and/or directions card. Use appropriate envelopes and consider special touches like envelope liners or wax seals.
Step 8: Addressing
Address the envelopes. You can handwrite, print, or hire a calligrapher for a more formal look. Make sure to follow proper etiquette for addressing guests, especially for formal events.
Step 9: Postage and Mailing
Purchase proper postage for your invitations, accounting for their size and weight. Go to a post office to have them weighed if you're unsure. Mail your invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding, or 8-10 weeks for a destination wedding.
General Notes
Save the Dates
Consider sending out save-the-date cards 6 to 8 months before your wedding, especially if you're planning a destination wedding or marrying during peak season.
Sample Orders
Before placing a final order, request a sample of your invitation to ensure the quality meets your expectations and the design translates well in print.
RSVP Tracking
Set up a system for tracking RSVPs as they come in. This can be as simple as a spreadsheet or a more sophisticated online platform.