It may be a good idea to make a guest list before you purchase any invitations or invitations kits. Ask your parents and your fiance's parents for a list of people they would like to invite. You and your fiance should make list make sure all names are spelled correctly and that addresses are current.
Decide whether this will be a family event or adults only if you would prefer not to have children please do not use “no kids” consider using something like “Adult reception”.
Order or make your invitations 3 to 4 months before the wedding. If you are having your invitations engraved allow an additional 4 to 6 weeks. Four to six weeks is long but having extra time will help you avoid potential problems or discrepancies with your invitations.
Purchase or make 10 to 20 percent more invitations than you need. Depending on the size of the guest list allow yourself 2 to 4 weeks for addressing, assembling if you are doing it yourself and mailing. Mail your invitations 6 to 8 weeks before your wedding.
Order one invitations for each married or cohabitating couple that you plan to invite. Single couples should receive individual invitations as well as teens over the age of 17.
The three types of invitations to consider are;
Traditional/Formal
Come in colors of white, cream, or ivory
Have raised black lettering
Printed on top page of double sheet of thick quality paper
Engraved-most expensive
Allow extra time it takes longer due to engraving
Contemporary
Individual invitation of a single sheet that makes a statement about the couple.
Can request thermography- with raised letters looks similar to engraved but cost less.
Informal/Casual
Printed on the front of a single heavyweight card can be pre printed
Offset printing-less expensive
Can be produced quickly
Offers a variety of styles and colors
Here is a list of all of the stationery you may need, depending on your event.
Invitation/Envelopes
Response Cards
Reception Cards
Ceremony Cards
Pew Cards
Seating/Place Cards
Rain Cards
Maps
Ceremony Programs
Announcements
Thank You Notes
Stamps
Brides should expect to use 3 to 4 percent of their bridal budget on Invitations and other printed material.
