The Complete Wedding Stationery Guide - Part 1

So you're getting married! Congratulations! As you have no doubt already discovered, deciding to get married is just the first of many decisions you'll need to make on the way to the big day. This column is intended to help you navigate through some of the finer points surrounding wedding stationery. We'll also look at a few "modern issues," areas where contemporary tastes run counter to tradition.

Invitations set the tone
Your wedding invitation will set the tone for your event. Whatever you decide to do for your celebration, your invitation should reflect both the event and your personality!

While the traditional ecru or white paper stock engraved with black ink is still the most popular choice for a formal invitation, more liberal approaches are "pushing the envelope," like invitations on textured papers, in multiple colors, and with custom wedding designs. Whether you plan to exchange vows in a hotel, a place of worship, or on a secluded island beach, show your personal style and create a wedding invitation that truly expresses who you are, your values, and your individuality.

With that said, it is still important to follow a few basic guidelines when planning your wedding stationery. Below is an overview that will acquaint you with the basics of wedding stationery. Please call or come see us when you're ready to put your stationery plans "on paper."

Planning Your Invitation

Order all of your invitations at the same time, leaving ample time to have them printed and addressed. Gather and bring all the information you will need to create your wedding invitation:

Date
Time
Place
Parents' names
Groom's middle name
Number of people attending reception vs. wedding

Getting Formal
The most formal invitation is on ecru (cream) or white stock engraved with black or dark-gray ink. It is folded in half, with the text of the invitation on the front outside panel. A less formal invitation is on an unfolded ecru or white card. Either of these papers may be plain or paneled.

Lettering Style
There are dozens and dozens of typefaces to choose from, from frilly scripts to austere all-caps. Choose one that expresses the spirit of your occasion and matches the tone of the stationery you decide upon.

All pieces in your wedding ensemble should use the same paper and ink color.