Wedding Invitation Types and Terms
May 4, 2007
There are so many types of wedding invitations available today where should a bridge and groom begin? Traditional invitations come in a number of way and include several parts. The first step is to be familiar with the the types of invitations popularly used today:
Engraved: Engraving creates the most formalized wedding invitations. A copper plate is used and the wording of the invitation is carved on the copper plate. The plate is placed in the press, inked and paper is printed with the copper plate. The letters left on the invitation are raised. These type of invitations can be extremely expensive and are usually used when there are no budgetary constraints.
Thermography: The process of thermography mixes ink with small dry particles to create the raised look of engraving. Thermography creates a similar effect to engraving but is more cost effective than using engraving for wedding invitations.
Off-set Printing: Off-set printing is often used for business printing needs and creates an affordable, customized wedding invitation that is beautiful and suitable for both formal and informal purposes.
Blind Embossing: For this type of printing, a design is pressed on paper resulting in a raised image. No ink or foil is used to create this print and it is usually used to print a family crest or other design on invitations.
Handwritten: Invitations can also be written in excellent penmanship or by using fancy calligraphy pens. Though these types of invitations involve a lot of writing, they are cost effective, original and can be used for both formal and informal weddings.
Besides the different types of printing on the invitation a couple can choose from, there are also several parts to wedding invitations. As you know, there seems to be envelopes within envelopes when you open up wedding invitations, so here are the parts:
Invitation: The invitation itself is a specially worded announcement of a wedding celebration. Wedding invitations can be formal or informal, depending on the circumstances and desires of the bridge and groom. Formalized invitations are traditionally printed on heavyweight paper in colours such as ivory, white and cream. Informal invitations can printed on various colours and use casual language and unique designs. Although invitations are usually sent through the mail, a couple can also choose to have them delivered by courier if price is no problem.
Reply card: Reply cards enable guests to inform the bridge and groom if they are attending, as well the number of people coming. An addressed envelope accompanies reply cards. These reply cards are an important way for the bride and groom to get a head count for their wedding.
Thank you cards: Frequently matching thank you cards are ordered with the invitations because it is cost-effective and convenient. Thank you cards should be sent to guests within a month after the wedding and are more personalised when handwritten.
Place Cards: Place cards that match the wedding invitations can be used to designate seating at a wedding. A place card with each guest’s name on it is put by a chair at the table so guests know where to sit when they arrive.
Maps: Sometimes a preprinted map is slipped into invitations so that guests from out of town can locate the wedding celebration.
These are just the basics about wedding invitations. Take your time and choose and invitation that reflects your unique union – after all, the invitation is the beginning of your momentous occasion.
Keywords: Wedding Invitations, Weddingblog, Wedding
Comments