I’ve found that most brides want an invitation they’ve either: a) seen before or b) use because that’s what they think an invitation should be. I’m offering some things to think about to break the mold and generate a little creativity along the way. Sorry, it’s a long blog again today. I promise to cut back soon.
Here’s a short list of what’s below so you can jump ahead if you’d like:
- Be yourself (and that means both of you)
- Color
- Mood
- Format
- Fonts
- Postcard RSVP
- Wording
- Graphics
- Customize
- Create your story
For your consideration, in no particular order:
- Be yourself (and that means both of you) … Make a list together of the things you and your finance like to do: hobbies, cultural background, lifestyle, work, sports, books you read, music, travels, whatever. Use these cues as inspiration to incorporate a little bit of yourselves in your invite. No, not literally include baseballs and bats, but maybe the idea of baseball stitching comes through in a subtle way, like a dashed line in a smooth curve, instead of a solid line, when graphics are needed, see #8. It not only makes the design process fun and personal, it ensures you both get an invite that reflects both of you. Ladies, this isn’t insignificant. It’s easy for your Handsome Groom to get lost in the planning shuffle and feel like the things he’s interested in don’t matter. Include what he wants throughout the process too.
- Color … No one said the bridesmaids’ dresses need to match your invite. I guarantee you that this invite didn’t match any dresses, yet it perfectly set the tone. Your invitation sets the feeling and style for the wedding. It tells your guest what to expect and should match their experience after the fact. If you feel like you need your colors in your invite, no problem. Consider adding a color to set the right mood or use in an eye-catching way that’s consistent with your day.
- Mood … speaking of mood, what is the tone you want to set? Super formal or fun and quirky? Whatever you do, I highly urge you to consider thinking about this and pushing the mood you want to set before you do anything, especially before you design or select your invitations. It gets people even more excited about your wedding day. It’s fun for them too.
- Format … Anything goes! We’ve seen all sorts of layouts, sizes and shapes. If you want a small invite that folds out into a poster, go for it! Don’t settle for the standard sizes, unless that’s what you really want. If so, do it ,after you’ve considered your options.
- Fonts … Mixing fonts is fun and has a huge impact on setting the tone of your event. Consider mixing a traditional font (that would please your mom or future MIL) with a contemporary font. Maybe something eclectic that reflects the happy couple. Balancing the look is possible, especially when using two very different typefaces. Here’s a sample of using fonts by scanning handwriting and forgoing traditional fonts altogether, yet leaving a traditional impression.
- Postcard RSVP … A great way to cut costs is to use an RSVP postcard. It can either be a standalone card or a perforated part of the invitation. An RSVP postcard cuts down on postage and envelope costs.
- Wording … Write your own. This is an especially nice touch if you and your fiance are writing your own vows. Or tweak the traditional text to add a word or two that reflects your personality. It’s OK to say Mr. and Mrs. Parents invite you to share in the wedding of Bride and Groom as they unite their love with the one another….Reception immediately follows to boogie down and celebrate!
- Graphics … Please consider something other than flowers. Don’t get me wrong, I love flowers, but they are really overdone when it comes to weddings. How can they possible help your invitation stand out? Really think about it. Avoid the clip art look too. You can have custom graphics or even photographs in your invite that are completely unique. Here’s a sample of an invite that feels a little modern and a little traditional. A graphic flourish instead of a flower.
- Customize … Your invite is one of the few physical keepsakes of your day that lasts a lifetime. As I’m sure you know, many people frame them, put them in scrapbooks, etc. Make it worth the effort. No one said custom has to be expensive. For Spiffy Press, custom means being resourceful, whether that’s finding affordable materials you may not consider for an invitation or focusing your decisions on where to spend your invite budget. For example, to afford a unique format, use one color to cut costs. There are always trade-offs to explore. Bottom line is we meet your bottom line.
- Create your story … As you consider all of these things, you’ll have a great story to tell when your guests say, “I loved your invite!” You can pick the detail to explain, “Thanks! We added the dashed line like baseball stitching because, as you know, Groom looooves baseball!” This creates an extra bond between you and your guests. It gives them a little more insight into what you are like as a couple. It brings them into your circle and excitement of your special day.
Whatever you do don’t’ forget it’s your day, your story, your design.
Creating something unique is what it's all about.
