11 Tips for Selecting Wedding Invitations

As someone who has recently spent hours scrolling through pages of pretty printed paper to select my own wedding invitations, I felt the need to share some advice that I learned through my own search. Your wedding invitations are one of the first symbols that truly set the mood and tone of your wedding. Through the design and the message, they give your guests a glimpse at what is to come. In essence, they make an impact. With this in mind, I compiled 11 tips to consider when deciding on which invitations best suit you as a couple. 

1.Choose Your Paper Provider

There are so many wonderful paper options available. Do your research to find what’s right for you. Some link to wedding websites. Some specialize in personalized invitations that you can customize though a designer. There are more and more that use recycled materials and give back to environmental causes. Figure out what is important to you. 

2. Pricing

Be aware that invites can be pricey, especially if customized or handmade. This can be worth it as invites serve as keepsake for both you and your guests, and they can be included in your wedding photos. Be sure to budget for the products you want. Many give initial discounts for “Save the Dates” and an additional discount when you order invites from the same company. Be sure to check in on sales throughout the year as many paper companies give holiday discounts. If you are having a smaller wedding, or if sending out printed invites simply isn’t your style, consider evites, which can also be customized and just as pretty. 

3. Design

Do you want invites that are colorful, bold and completely unique? Or something more classic, elegant and timeless? When ordering your invites, you should consider your wedding theme and colors. 

4. Font

No matter how beautiful a font may be, you shouldn’t put it on your invitation if it’s difficult to decipher. Above all, guests need to be able to clearly read and comprehend the font on the card. Serifs, sans serifs and scripts are some of the most popular legible fonts. You should also consider the font color. If the font blends in too much with the paper color, something needs to change. 

5. Shape and Size

The most traditional paper invitations are 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches or 5 inches by 7 inches and rectangular. That doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to these sizes, styles or shapes. Scalloped, square and circle options are becoming increasingly popular. Just be aware that choosing a non-standard size can increase the postage. 

6. Paper

For those who aren’t paper connoisseurs, there are more options than one might think. Some options include cotton fiber, cardstock, matte, glossy, parchment, handmade paper, recycled paper, linen and more. It is best to be able to see and feel these options in order to decide. Check if your designer can send you samples. 

7. Wording

Once you’ve got the look down, it’s time to spell out the most crucial part — the text on the invite. The specifics should include, in the following order: host’s name, couple’s names, date, time, ceremony location name and address, reception location name and address. Optional inclusions include: dress code and RSVP information if you’re not including a separate RSVP card. Only include what is necessary — additional information can be included on inserts or your website. You don’t want your invitations to be crowded with text. Once you have determined the wording, double and triple check it for any mistakes or discrepancies. 

8. Inserts

To avoid clutter on the card, consider inserts, which could include an RSVP card, directions cards, a wedding weekend timeline or a menu selection card. These additional cards do cost extra, but they could make your life easier when taking headcount of the RSVP list and determining meals. 

9. Order Extra

It is suggested that you order at least 25 extra invitations and blank envelopes, especially if you are hand addressing them. There are bound to be mistakes when addressing or putting on stamps. There might also be last minute guests that you want to add. You should set aside a few to provide to your photographer for photos and for a keepsake. 

10. Timeline

It’s wise to order your invitations three to four months before the wedding. That way you have time to make sure there are no issues with the invites themselves, you account for receival time, you purchase stamps, take them to the post office and wait for them to arrive in mailboxes. It’s advised to mail your invitations out 6-to-10 weeks before the wedding. 

11. Post Office Prep 

Take your invites to the post office and have them weighed to determine the correct postage. You don’t want to deal with the hassle of a returned invitation. While you’re there, select your wedding stamps or order them online.