You’ve chosen the date and settled on your wedding colors and theme. Now it’s time to focus on the wedding invitations. There are many decisions that must be made to create the perfect wedding invitations for your special day.
The first step is deciding on a style. For your invitees, the wedding invitation is a preview of the color scheme and style of the ceremony itself. The invitation should match the level of formality that you’ve planned. An embossed gold-printed invitation in ornate script won't convey the right mood if the wedding is being held in a forest glen at sunset.
It's a good idea to view some custom wedding invitations to get ideas on available styles. By visiting printers’ websites or visiting your local stationers, you’ll have some guidance in what to look for when designing your own invitations. One advantage to visiting in person is that you can better see and actually touch samples. You can also consult with an experienced professional who can guide you in choosing the right custom wedding invitations for your theme and colors.
Once you’ve chosen an invitation to customize, you’ll need to know many details before ordering. It is extremely important to know the correct spelling of the event locations and the names of everyone who'll be mentioned on the invitation. You’ll also want to consult with the wedding party members to verify how they prefer to be addressed. Do your fiancé’s parents use John and Jane Doe, or would they rather be Mr. and Mrs. John Doe?
Once plans are finalized, your custom wedding invitations can be ordered. You’ll need to know the date, time and address of the wedding, and reception venues. If a meal will be served with choices, you’ll want to include a method for guests to indicate their preference on a response card.
Your guest list and count should be finalized before ordering your custom wedding invitations. One invitation per household is standard procedure. There’s no need to invite each person separately. You’ll also want to consider any special requests you may have, such as no children at the formal ceremony. To avoid awkwardness on your wedding day, this information should be on the invitation itself.
Depending on the printing method and how elaborate the invitations will be, you should place your order at least three months before the big day. Five or six months in advance is even better. Printing can take anywhere from two to six weeks. You’ll need a week or two to address and mail them. Since most brides prefer a response in writing to plan for catering and seating, a response deadline two to three weeks prior to the wedding is customary.
It’s a good idea to order thank you cards at the same time as you order the wedding invitations and R.S.V.P. cards. Not only will they match your theme, you’ll have them ready to write once you are married. Insert cards with your wedding website address can also be ordered.
Proofreading is absolutely essential. Have a few friends proof the wedding invitations. It is also a good idea to email or fax the sample invitation to those mentioned to guarantee everything is spelled correctly.
Abby Bramski works for a large unique wedding invitations company. She loves all things wedding, especially retro short dresses and outdoor locations.
