Finding the perfect invitation at first glance was easier than expected. Unlike my dress search, when I entered the invitation shop I had very few ideas and points of inspiration. I knew something classic would work best. After browsing through endless sample books, I found the invitation that seemed to match every detail of our wedding from the color of the bridesmaid dresses to the style of our venue. Unfortunately, nothing in the wedding planning process is a simple as saying “I Do.” After all, when you finally say, “yes” to the dress, you must find the appropriate shoes, jewelry and schedule multiple fittings. Brides-to-be should be forewarned that the invitation process, although exciting, requires great attention to detail.
The gorgeous MOTB helped me sort through stacks of sample books!
Here are a few things to consider before sealing the envelopes…
Wordiness is never Wonderful
After selecting the invitations, I learned that there are several ways to include all necessary information. For example, there are certain words or phrases that are most appropriate to introduce the parents of the bride and/or groom. But at what point does your invitation become too crowded and wrongfully wordy? When your groom’s name is Doctor John Benner Peterman III, you must keep the rest of the invitation in context.
How many inserts is too many?
After selecting the ideal invitation, I failed to realize the potential for multiple mini inserts. Of course, the guests will need to RSVP with pre-stamped envelopes. Additionally, we are including an information/direction card for guests who are out of state and unfamiliar with the area and venue. And what about close friends and family who will be invited to brunch the following morning? You guessed it; they also need a brunch invitation. I also recommend that the bride and groom include their personal wedding website for further information such as booking hotel rooms. The list goes on, and before we knew it, there seemed to be more inserts than we could count on one hand.
Provide a Personal touch
My favorite part of selecting invitations was designing a personal touch. Although I will not give away the additional gem to our invites (stay tuned for your copy in the mail), I do recommend adding an ounce of sparkle to your choice. Also, while you are working with your preferred stationary company, be sure to inquire about additional elements they may supply. These may include place cards, cocktail napkins, table numbers and matching thank you notes.
If Southern bridal belles are ever traveling to the New Jersey/New York metropolitan area, I highly recommend working with Denise Abramson at Paper Parfait. When you walk into Denise’s office you feel as if you are in a paper palace. Our invitations are scheduled to be mailed in late April and I am incredibly jazzed for the big reveal. Although sealing the envelopes on the invitations is most certainly a process, each visit has been happy, efficient and perfectly bridal.
