Engraved Invitations is an age old process where the paper is stamped with a mould, leaving an indentation or imprint on the paper. Ink is then applied to the imprint and allowed to dry. Engraved invitations are by far the most difficult to prepare. Plan on six weeks or more for delivery of the final product once you've approved the design and content. For the most formal of weddings, engraved invitations are usually a must, and are certainly the most expensive of all types.

Thermography is a popular alternative to engraved invitations today and is a less expensive alternative. Thermographed invitations are prepared by using a glue based solution to set the lettering and design of your invitations. The ink and very fine powder, or "dust", is then applied to the glue based solution and heated. As(the drying process takes place, the lettering becomes raised for an attractive and elegant look.

Offset Printing is another cost effective solution but is not used usually for wedding invitations!

Calligraphy Invitations is elegant and stylish and has a flair of the "old fashioned". Invitations prepared this way are hand-written in a script lettering that takes time and effort. Usually special training is required for that "perfect" look. Allow plenty of time if you choose to go this route, and remember, calligraphy ink is usually not waterproof and may smudge or streak with minimal moisture!

Addressing and hand lettering envelopes are done 3 different ways. Addressing can be done by hand or by computer. Tell your fiancée "no labels!". Hand lettering by a professional provides both a personalized and elegant appearance to your invitation. Calligraphy is beautiful but also challenging and requires some practice.

If you've never done calligraphy before, and really want to address the envelopes yourself, pick up a book at the library or take a short course. When addressing the envelopes, you don't have to use calligraphy. If you have nice hand writing that will work fine too!

Computer Generated Lettering that computers and high quality printers today offer have a variety of calligraphy fonts. Computers also offer quality and consistent results. Some invitation shops have a calligraphy machine that is actually a pen that is moved by a computer. This is certainly a time saver!

1...Invitations set the theme and the mood for your wedding. So, keep that in mind when you make your selections.

2...Invitations need to be sent out 6 to 8 weeks prior to your wedding date!

3..Yes, you must put the appropriate postage on your return envelopes. This is not a place to try and save money.

4...Be sure to ask to see some samples of recently performed work or printed invitations when shopping for your invitations.

5..Order 25 more invitations than you think you need. It can be very expensive to order additional invitations at the last minute because of another type setting fee, and you may not get them in time! You'll need extra invitations for any mistakes made in addressing the envelopes, any "last minute" additions.to the guest list, and a few for keepsakes.

6..Thermography looks very much like engraved invitations except in price. The biggest difference is that Thermography is a lot less! This is the more popular avenue to seek because of savings. Just make sure you have "raised printing" for your wedding invitations.

7..Review your guest list to make sure that all the names are spelled correctly and addresses are up to date. Also check to make sure you have your address on the return envelopes and put a 33 cent stamp.

8. Count your invitations and proof them before leaving the place that prepared them for you.

9. It's likely, and appropriate, that a deposit will be requested by the printer.

10. Take an invitation that you will be sending to your guests to the post office and have it weighed. Some invitations are larger and heavier. Be sure to apply the appropriate amount of postage stamps so that your invitations are delivered on time and with no postage due.
Go to a real postal station so they can give you the correct information. Another point, invitations weigh more if it's humid because paper retains moisture.

11. All Children over the age of 16 should receive their own invitation.

12. When addressing invitations, draw 3 dark straight lines on a sturdy piece of board cut to fit inside the envelopes. Insert the board inside the envelope and you will be able to see the lines through the envelope. Use the lines as a guide.for addressing them straight.

13. The wording of the invitation depends on who is "hosting" the wedding. Years ago it was always the bride's family, but, today it varies. It can be a joint combination of bride and groom's family, the groom's family or the bride and groom themselves. Make sure you get help with the "proper" wording!

Andrea
Toll free at

1(888) 472-7044
or
(520) 722-9607
E-Mail us: 
andrea@celebrationsink.com

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