Wedding invitations set the tone for your wedding. Here are some things to keep in mind as you create the design that invites your guests to share in your special day.
When you order invitations, remember that you don’t need one for each guest. Since most of the people you are inviting will probably come as couples, you don’t want to over order. It is however, a good idea to get 25 extra. There’s a minimum fee for the extras and you’ll need them if you are having an A and B list. If people on your A list let you know that they can’t come, you can use the extra invitations to invite people on your B list. (How to manage an A and B list is a topic I will cover in a later blog post.) Also, it’s a good idea to have the extra envelopes in case you make a mistake addressing one.
You can get invitations from many on-line stores. Look at the styles and prices and make comparisons.
If you want a unique look, you can have invitations designed just for you. I use a designer that creates invitations, reply cards, save the date cards, programs, seating charts, etc. specifically for my brides, based on their theme and colors for their wedding. You can check out my invitation page here.
Another way to have a look that’s all your own is to make your own invitations. It allows you to create something that speaks to you. Have an invitation making party with your bridal party, friends and family. Not only will you have fun together, but making your own invitations can really save you money. It’s creative and a nice personal touch.
Don’t forget to include postage costs for your invitations in your budget. Invitations usually weigh at least 2 ounces. When mailing invitations, reply cards and thank you cards, postage can quickly add up.
It’s very important to keep in mind the shape of the envelope you select. If you select an invitation that is a standard size you will avoid additional postage charges. Square envelopes in the U.S. cost more to mail.
It’s wise to put together your invitation mailing and take it to the post office and have it weighed. You want to be certain that you have enough postage on the envelope or you risk having all your invitations returned to you.
I’ve had several brides who mailed one invitation to themselves. If you do this, you will know when the invitations start to arrive and you can see how the piece looks when it is received.
Share with other brides information about the wedding invitations you are using. Leave a comment below. It’s nice to be able to help each other with ideas.
