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More and more couples are creating their own wedding invitations

3 min read

On a recent trip to a local office supply store, I spied a large selection of wedding invitation papers and envelopes. Each time I enter the store, it appears that the selection, and the quality, continues to grow. As more and more couples become computer savvy, it is not surprising couples are creating their own wedding invitations. With good quality paper and a laser printer, attractive wedding invitations can be created at home.

So, what is the difference between invitations created on the home computer and traditional invitations ordered from an invitation dealer? Often the difference lies in the quality of paper and the printing technique.

Engraved Invitations are the most expensive and elegant way to invite your guests.

A good, cotton bond paper is stamped with a mold. The stamping process leaves an indentation in the paper. Ink is added to fill in the indentation and then it is dried. The typical ordering timeframe for engraved invitations is six to eight weeks.

Thermography is a newer printing technique, and due to its reasonable cost, it has become more popular than engraving. Thermography is the opposite of engraving. In this printing technique, words are written out in glue and the ink color is sprinkled over the glue. The invitation is then heated and the lettering is raised.

Engraved or thermograph invitations have one thing in common: good quality paper. When the guest receives that invitation in the mail, it will stand out from the usual collection of junk mail received that day.

Its weight and color will differentiate it from the ordinary and its design and tone can indicate the formality of the event.

Couples, who decide to go the traditional route and order invitations, should shop around for the best price.

Discounts on wedding invitations are offered by many wedding vendors including, bridal stores, card shop and party good stores.

Sample selections of wedding invitations display a wide range of color, design, font and ink choices. The samples illustrate popular wording but each selection offers personalized customization. A variety of ink color choices allow the customer the opportunity to coordinate the invitation with the colors of the celebration. Colored envelope liners are also available to coordinate with ink selections.

Insert cards are usually purchased along with the invitation. Typically, a reception card is included with the invitation. On the reception card, the location, time and type of reception, such as “Dinner Reception” or “Hors d’oeuvres Reception,” are indicated.

Another common insert card is known as the response card and envelope. The response card is used as an RSVP convenience, as the guest can check off his intentions and mail back the card. A self-addressed stamped envelope should accompany the response card.

Finally, don’t assume that the invitation needs just one stamp. All of these inserts, and envelope linings, will effect the postage cost. The entire invitation should be weighed at the local post office before a stamp is adhered.

K. Joy Schaeffer is a bridal consultant. You can e-mail her your bridal questions at bridejoy@yahoo.com

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