When brides think about their big day, they often think about what their dress will look like, who will be in the wedding, and how great the day will turn out. Well, all that is true, but in order to achieve that great day, many things must be taken into consideration. Setting the tone is essential to achieving the right “look” for your perfect day. The perfect way to get off on the right foot and set the tone is through your invitations.
Often times, people don’t think about the invitation until midway or as the wedding day is knocking at the door; however, the invitation sets the tone of the wedding and gives the guest a glimpse into what Wonderland they are entering into. One useful way to use invitations is as an expression of the wedding theme. Once you determine the theme, the invitations will create continuity and build up to the big day.
Now, just because the invitation sets the tone of your big day, that doesn’t mean it has to be one of the most expensive items on your list. Here are some considerations you will need to make both in terms of money and style as you select your invitations:
There are four popular forms of invitation printing. Before you get out there and shop, arm yourself with the process and language. Because the pricing ranges from inexpensive to breaking the bank, it helps to know what to expect before going out shopping at retail stores.
There are three things to consider: cost, budget, and time:
- Laser printing – Typically known as off-set or flat printing, laser printing is the least expensive option for producing invitations. The production time is relatively quick and usually takes 2-3 days depending on quantity. $
- Thermography – The cost of thermography is less expensive than letterpress or engraving, but still yields beautiful results. It consists of ink that is printed and baked to create a raided effect. The production time usually takes 7-10 days. $$
- Letterpress – The cost is moderately expensive, however, worth the money. This is one of the oldest printing processes. The image/text is transposed onto a metal plate and the impression is pressing into the paper. This process creates a very detailed and beautiful result. The design can be formal or informal. The production time takes 2-3 weeks. $$$
- Engraving – Of all the processes, this is the most formal and most expensive. This process is similar to letterpress with the use of metal plates, but the image is etched into the paper and creates a raised effect, the result is raised print that is pressed through the back. The production time takes 2-3 weeks. $$$$
So, once you determine which process is best for you and your budget, don’t forget to factor in the additional costs of postage and mailing. This price can increase depending on size (non-standard sizes, such as square invitations). Looking for ways to save? Choose a simple design, stick to one color, and plan ahead, last minute planning often costs more. |
