Decoding the Wedding Invitation Suite: A Stress-Free Guide
So, you're engaged! Congratulations! Now, the fun begins... and maybe a little bit of overwhelm. Planning a wedding is exciting, but tackling those invitations can feel like navigating a minefield of paper products. Don't worry, you're not alone! Let's break down the anatomy of a wedding invitation suite and demystify those options.
The Essentials:
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The Invitation: This is the star of the show! It formally announces your wedding with the who, what, when, and where.
Consider a luxurious touch like letterpress printing for your invitations. This technique creates a beautiful, textured impression on thick paper, giving your invitations a timeless and elegant feel.
- RSVP Card: This little duo helps you track your guest count. It typically includes a meal choice option and a space for guests to write any dietary restrictions.
- Details Card: This is where you share all the extra information: accommodation options, directions, website details, and any other need-to-knows.
Optional Extras (but oh-so-helpful!):
- Reception Card: If your reception is at a different location from the ceremony, this card provides those specifics.
- Accommodation Card: Perfect for out-of-town guests, this card lists hotel options and any special booking codes.
- Map Card: Helpful for guests unfamiliar with the area, this provides a visual guide to the ceremony and reception venues.
- Rehearsal Dinner Invitation: If you're having a more formal rehearsal dinner, a separate invitation for this event is a nice touch.
Don't Forget the Finishing Touches:
- Envelopes: Inner and outer envelopes add a touch of formality. The inner envelope lists the names of those invited, while the outer envelope has the guest's address.
- Envelope Liners: These add a pop of color and personality to your suite.
- Belly Bands: These add a touch of elegance and keep your invitation suite neatly bundled. Customize yours with unique materials like vellum or ribbon, and add a wax seal or other embellishments for an extra flourish.
Do I Need Everything?:
Nope! The beauty of a wedding invitation suite is that it's customizable to your needs. Consider:
- Your Wedding Style: A formal wedding might call for the whole package, while a casual celebration might just need the essentials.
- Your Budget: Prioritize the pieces that are most important to you. While letterpress printing can be more expensive, it's a worthwhile investment for many couples. Consider semi-custom designs, which offer the beauty of letterpress at a more accessible price point.
- Your Guest Needs: Do you have a lot of out-of-town guests? An accommodation card might be a must. Is your venue tricky to find, even with GPS? A map card could be a lifesaver.
Feeling less overwhelmed? Remember, your stationer can be a fantastic resource to help you navigate these decisions. Happy planning!
Design, Letterpress Printing and Embellishment Assembly: Dinglewood Design and Press
Photo and Styling: Peterson Design and Photography
