Choosing the perfect wedding invitation is a crucial step in the wedding planning process. It sets the tone for the entire event and gives guests a sneak peek into what to expect on the big day. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which design and style to choose. Fear not, as we have compiled a guide to help you select the perfect wedding invitations that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
How do I choose a wedding Invitation?
Set an invitation budget
First and foremost, it is crucial to set a budget for your wedding invitations. This can vary widely depending on whether you plan to DIY your own wedding invitations, purchase a downloadable invitation template, or have them professionally designed. Your budget for the invitations should also include finances to cover the postage or delivery of the invitations to the guests.
Choose an invitation theme
It is important to consider the overall theme and style of your wedding when selecting your invitations. Are you having a traditional, modern, formal, rustic, or beach wedding? Your invitations should reflect the aesthetic of your wedding and give guests a sense of what to expect. For instance, if you are having a beach wedding, you may want to opt for invitations that feature seashells or a watercolour beach scene. A garden wedding may call for floral or foliage themed invitations.
Choose an invitation colour scheme
Next, consider the colour scheme of your wedding. Your invitations should complement and reflect the colours you have chosen for your wedding. If your wedding colours are dusty pink and gold, for example, you may want to select invitations that feature these colours. You can also incorporate other colours that complement your wedding palette and relate to the location or venue of your wedding.
Select an invitation design style
The design of your invitations is also important. Do you want a simple and elegant design or something more elaborate? Are you looking for a traditional or modern design? There are a variety of options available, from classic floral designs to minimalist typography. You can also add special touches like foil stamping or embossing to make your invitations stand out. Pinterest is a great resource for narrowing down the style of invitation you prefer. Start an invitation mood board with all your favourite invitation styles, fonts and colours.
Pick an invitation size and format
Consider the size and format of the invitation, will it be square, rectangle or DL? Custom die cut invitations are also a stunning option for a luxury wedding stationery suite. Whatever the shape or size you choose, ensure that it fits a standard envelope size. Check this handy envelope size guide and refer to Australia Post’s envelope postage fees before making your final decision.
Create a luxury look with invitation extras
Wedding invitations are received with joy and anticipation and are often kept as treasured memories for years to come. Little details can go a long way when it comes to creating lasting memories for your guests. There are many ways to add delightful details to wedding invites, here are some elements to consider. Ribbons, tassels or string can add a beautiful, textural element to your finished invitations. Wrap ribbon around the middle or attach to a tassel to the top of your invitation with an eyelet. Increase anticipation when opening your invitations, by revealing the design with a gate-fold design or a parchment or vellum overlay. Envelope liners really give the wow factor when opening your invitation envelope. A paper belly band is another lovely way to add a contrasting pattern or colour to your event invites.
Wax seals are the perfect finishing touch for your wedding invitation and can instantly elevate a design, giving it a luxury feel. The ultimate DIY wedding hack, wax seals can transform an affordable digital invitation into a stylish wedding invitation suite. Traditionally wax seals have been used to seal envelopes, however nowadays it is common for a wax seal to be used on the invitation itself. Wax seals can be affixed to the top centre of the invitation as a design feature, or as a closure for the gate fold sleeve. A wax seal over a central paper invitation belly band or silk ribbon is one of the most popular ways to use ways seals on wedding invitations.
What to include in invitation wording
When selecting the wording for your invitations, it is important to keep in mind the tone and formality of your wedding. If you are having a formal wedding, you may want to use more traditional language. For a more casual wedding, you can opt for a more relaxed tone. Your invitations should include the names of the hosts, the couple's names, the date and time of the wedding, and the location, reception information, dress code and RSVP details.
Invitation paper and printing styles
Another important factor to consider is the type of paper and printing method you want to use. The type of paper you choose can impact the overall look and feel of your invitations. You can choose from a variety of paper types, including textured, glossy, or matte. The thickness of your paper can also influence the overall feel. Deckled edged, handmade paper is a popular choice for a luxury look and feel but can come at a cost. The printing method you choose can also have an impact on the overall look of your invitations. You can opt for digital printing, letterpress, or engraving. If you are having your invitations designed by a stationery designer, they can advise of what would best suit your budget and theme.
Final thoughts
Lastly, don't forget to include any additional information your guests may need. This can include directions to the venue, information about accommodations, or details about the reception. You can also include RSVP cards to make it easier for guests to respond.
In conclusion, choosing the perfect wedding invitations requires careful consideration of the overall theme and style of your wedding, the colour scheme, the design, the wording, the type of paper and printing method, and any additional information you want to include. Most importantly, enjoy the process of designing you own wedding invitations. By taking the time to select the perfect invitations, you can set the tone for your wedding and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
So to recap here's how to choose the perfect wedding invitation:
1. Set an invitation budget
2. Choose an invitation theme
3. Choose an invitation colour scheme
4. Select an invitation design style
5. Pick and invitation size and format
6. Create a luxury look with invitation extras
7. What to include in invitation wording
8. Invitation paper and printing styles
9. Final thoughts
I hope this Ultimate Guide to Choosing the perfect wedding invitation provides you with guidance to start planning your wedding invitation design and has answered your question, "how do I choose a wedding invitation"?