What You'll Need
- Your invitations will generally include:
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The outer invitation envelope
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An invitation
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A reception card
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A response card
-
Another envelope for the response
card
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Information for guests on where
to stay, how to get there, and important phone numbers
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Detailed directions with
addresses and for the church and reception
Types of Invitations - There are basically six
(6) types of invitations you can select from:
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Engraved Invitations
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Thermographed Invitations
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Printed Invitations
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Calligraphy
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Hand Colored Invitations
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Box Set Invitations
Engraved Invitations
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 invitations are by far the most difficult
to prepare. Plan on six weeks or more for delivery of the final
product once you've approved the design and content. For the most
formal of weddings, engraved invitations are usually a must, and
are certainly the most expensive of all types.
Thermographed Invitations
Thermography is a popular
alternative to engraved invitations today and is a less expensive
alternative. 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 for an attractive and elegant
look.
Printed Invitations
Another cost effective solution for
your invitations are printed invitations. Most professional
printers offer a wide array of selection and styles. Turn around
times for printed invitations are better than most other
alternatives.
Calligraphed Invitations
Calligraphy is elegant and stylish
and has a flair of the "old fashioned". Invitations prepared this
way are handwritten in a script lettering that takes time and
effort. Usually special training is required for that "perfect"
look. Allow plenty of time if you choose to go this route, and
remember, calligraphy ink is usually not waterproof and may smudge
or streak with minimal moisture!
Hand Colored Invitations
Take a basic invitation and add
flair and style - a personal touch of your own - with hand
colored or painted designs. This approach is almost always a
unique and inner glimpse of you and your fiancé! Far from the
traditional engraved invitation, more and more people today
are taking a look at the "personality" and ease of preparing
hand colored invitations.
Box Set Invitations
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". We've seen some incredibly wonderful
and colorful boxed set invitations that created the perfect
touch - creating excitement and fun!
Addressing - When it comes to addressing
there aren't a lot of options here. Addressing is usually done
by hand or by computer - tell your fiancé -"no labels".
Hand Lettering
Hand lettering by a
professional calligrapher provides both a personalized and
elegant appearance to your invitation. Calligraphy is
challenging and requires some practice. If you've never done
calligraphy before, and really want to address the envelopes
yourself, pick up a book at the library or take a short
course. When addressing the envelopes, you don't have to use
calligraphy. If you have nice hand writing - that will work
fine too!
Computer Generated Lettering
Computers and high quality
printers today offer a variety of calligraphy fonts - and
offer quality and consistent results. Also, some invitation
shops have a calligraphy machine that is actually a pen that's
moved by a computer. This is certainly a time saver!
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