As discussed in Part 1 of Wedding Invitations: Choose the best one for your wedding, there are literally thousands of wedding invitation styles and designs available, but only a handful of basic types. In this post, we’ll discuss wedding invitations that are:
Engraved
Thermographed
Offset Printed
Calligraphic
Embossed
Handmade
Boxed
Engraved. Engraved invitations are the most classic choice of wedding invitations available and are generally used to announce a very traditional-style wedding. For very formal weddings, engraved invitations are an absolute must.
Engraved wedding invitations are also very expensive and time consuming because it takes an engraver several steps to complete the invitation. First, he/she carves the image or message into a copper plate. Then the engraver inks the plate and wipes it clean, leaving the ink only in the indentations. Last, soft, high-quality paper is pressed hard against the plate, which causes it to deform into the etchings, creating raised lettering on the paper. You can spot true engraving by the “bruise” or dent on the back of the paper.
Tip: Keep in mind that you should order your engraved invitations no less than 8 weeks from the date of your wedding, preferably further in advance.
Thermography. Thermographed wedding invitations are an affordable alternative to an engraved invitation. The technique was developed as a less expensive alternative to engraving. Thermography creates the illusion of raised text through a printing process that heats the ink and resin chemical in a combination that causes the printed text to appear raised while the paper beneath it looks smooth. The end result has a very elegant look and works very well for semi-formal weddings.
Tip: Plan on ordering these invitations at least six weeks in advance.
Offset Printing. Most modern printing is offset printing, also known as lithography. This type of print– when used on wedding invitations–may seem common, but will still announce your wedding in an elegant manner. Offset printing has become one of the most popular choices on the market today because they are very cost efficient, they are available through most stationary vendors and printers (both online and off), and the invitations can be purchased “blank” allowing you the option of printing your own information on them. Printed invitations are appropriate for semi-formal and casual weddings.
Tip: While the turnaround time for printed invitations is typically better than engraved or thermographed options, you should still plan on ordering your printed invitations at least 4-6 weeks in advance. Also, the quality of offset printing can vary greatly, so be sure to look for a printer who can deliver crisp quality and true colors.
Embossed. Similar to engraved invitations, the raised print on an embossed wedding invitation looks impressive and classy, but may be hard on your budget. Since embossing is a more expensive process, though, it adds a significant level of elegance to your wedding invitation. Also, since it is rarely seen, embossed wedding invitations stand out among the many pieces of mail your guests receive.
Usually used for small insignias, monograms or return addresses, the embossed appearance is obtained when paper is pressed between metal plates, raising an image or text outline out of the surface (think notary seal). When no ink is used, the process is called “blind” embossing.
Tip: Buy a small embosser with your monogram or return address on the plate. This will allow you to create custom stationery in a more affordable way.
Calligraphy. Calligraphed invitations are very elegant and work well for weddings with an old fashioned theme, but they can be very expensive due to the amount of time and effort involved in producing them. When done by a skilled calligrapher, calligraphy wedding invitations are appropriate for all types of weddings except very formal ones. You might also look for a printer who creates the look of calligraphy on printed invitations, which is more affordable than the hand-written calligraphy–though they may not look as elegant as the hand-written one.
Tip: When deciding on whether to choose calligraphy invitations, remember that you need to allow extra time for preparation. Keep in mind, too, that this type of invitation may smudge if it comes in contact with moisture.
Handmade. Wedding invitations that are handmade are gaining popularity because they are not only cost efficient, they also add a nice personal touch to your very special day. Though there are unlimited options when creating your unique invitations, you may want to consider using a desktop publishing program and attractive stationary to make the process a little easier. Handmade invitations are appropriate for most weddings except very formal events.
Tip: Remember to plan on making additional invitations in case of mistakes and allow plenty of time to prepare them.
Boxed. Boxed wedding invitations are available at most retailers and provide a quick and easy alternative to other types of invitations. Also, they can be easily dressed up for a unique and personal touch.
Tip: Buy extras to ensure that you have enough in case of mistakes or you need to invite additional guests.
Lisa Bakewell
DO
Additionally, check out these resources for more information on hot wedding cake trends for 2009:
