Wedding Invitations and where to begin

You’re probably familiar with the expression “New Year, New You.” It’s a popular one for a reason: New Year’s is a time to reflect on the past year and set resolutions for the coming one.

For many people, goal-setting revolves around improving aspects of their life such as their health, career, or relationships. But what about those resolutions that are a little more fun? If you’re looking to plan your dream wedding in 2023, we have some tips for you.

Types of Wedding Invitations

There are three main types of wedding invitations: formal, semi-formal, and informal. Formal invitations are the most traditional, while informal invitations are more casual. Semi-formal invitations occupy a middle ground between the two. Below we dive a little deeper into each and what either can do you for.

Formal invitations are typically sent by the bride’s parents and include the names of both the bride and groom. The invitations are usually very traditional in both style and wording.

Semi-formal invitations are usually sent by the bride and groom themselves and can be more creative in both style and wording.

Informal invitations are typically sent by close friends or family members of the bride and groom and can be the most creative of the three types. It is worth noting that modern-day weddings have taken on the characteristics of all three types in various ways as more and more couples seek to differentiate themselves from others in new and very creative ways.

There are also a few other types of invitations that are less common but still worth mentioning. Destination wedding invitations are sent to guests who will be traveling to the wedding location. They often include information about travel and lodging arrangements. Elopement invitations are sent to guests who are not invited to the wedding ceremony but are invited to the reception. Lastly, rehearsal dinner invitations are sent to guests who are invited to the rehearsal dinner, which is held the night before the wedding. It is worth mentioning digital invitations as a fresh new medium for younger couples.

Which type of invitation is right for you? That depends on your style and the tone of your wedding. If you’re not sure, we are always available to answer questions regarding your vision here.

Crafting a Theme for Your New Year Wedding

So you’ve set your wedding date for next year and you’re starting to think about your theme. What should you do to make sure that your planning process goes as smoothly as possible?

First, start by crafting a theme for your wedding. This will help you to stay organized and on track as you plan every detail of your big day. It can also be a fun way to personalize your wedding and set the tone for the celebration.

Think about the vibe you want to create and the mood you want your guests to feel. Do you want it to be fun and festive, or elegant and romantic? Once you’ve nailed down the basics, you can start brainstorming ideas that fit with your chosen theme.

Balancing Style, Design, and Functionality

One of the key elements to any successful wedding is finding the right balance between style, design, and functionality. When you’re creating your wedding invitations, it’s important to ensure that each invitation suitably reflects the look and feel of the special day, but is also functional and easy for guests to understand. While you may be tempted to go for an ultra-stylish look with complex designs and calligraphy, remember that it should still remain legible and easy to read.

To strike this balance, start by choosing your paper type and color scheme. Then, make sure the font is big enough so that the text can easily be read and understood. Finally, keep it simple by avoiding overwhelming amounts of information or too many decorative elements that might distract guests from the essential details such as date, location, RSVP contact details etc. With a few thoughtful touches here and there you’ll have invitations that will make a lasting impression on your guests!

What about timing?

When it comes to planning your wedding invitations, many different elements also factor into planning like dresses, favors, venue, guests, and the list goes on. But in the midst of all of that, making sure that your guests receive their invitations in plenty of time will help check items off your list. Below are a few things to remember.

First and foremost, make sure that your invitations are addressed correctly and with the correct spelling. Double-check to be sure there are no mistakes! Second, consider whether you need to include additional information with the invitation, such as directions to the venue, accommodation suggestions or a dress code. Finally, give your guests plenty of notice by sending out invitations at least six weeks before the date of the wedding—this will give them enough time to plan their attendance. If it is a destination wedding, giving six months notice is very good timeframe to allow for changes with your guests.

These simple tips will help ensure that all of your guests receive their invitation in good time and have all the necessary information they need to share in this special day with you!

Making an Impression With Creative Customization

At this point of your wedding planning journey, it’s time to start making an impression with creative customization. Custom-designed invitations are a great way to make sure your guests feel special and give them a glimpse into the theme of your wedding. There are so many different options to choose from, from laser-cut designs to bright colors and printed patterns. No matter what you choose, the possibilities are endless!

With the advent of new technology and design processes, customizing wedding invitations has never been easier. You can even craft a completely unique invitation with the help of online design experts or experienced wedding stationery teams. You can pick and choose all the details, including typefaces, size, paper stock—the list goes on! Whatever design you end up choosing will be sure to impress your guests and set the tone for an amazing event.

Conclusion

When it comes to wedding planning, it’s important to start with the end in mind. By planning your wedding around your goals for the new year, you can make sure that everything falls into place.

By sending out invitations early, you can make sure that all of your guests can be there to celebrate with you. And by choosing a date that’s convenient for everyone, you can make sure that everyone has a chance to be a part of your big day.

With a little bit of planning, you can make sure that your wedding is everything you’ve always dreamed of.

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Monogram

Plenty of people are unaware of the rules behind monogram design.  Before we begin with the discussion on protocols, let’s talk about what a monogram actually is.  A monogram, according to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, is a sign of identity usually formed of the combined initials of a name.  A monogram is a design, consisting of one, two or three combined or linked initials used to represent a person’s or a couple’s identity.  Below are some examples of how to use each style.

His and Her’s

Monograms may be used to add a special touch to a personal item to mark a special event, a milestone or an achievement, to give it more meaning.  The rules for personal monograms are pretty simple and may be summarized by the following rules:

Monogram styles, rules and protocols

Engaged Couples

As a general rule, engaged couples should not use their married monogram initials until after the wedding ceremony takes place.  As an alternative, engaged couples may use a combination of their first name initials or just simply spell out their first names, ie., K&B or Katherine & Brandon.  Traditionally the woman’s initial is first, but it is up to the couple how they want to list the initials or names for monogramming.

Modern-day exceptions allow for engaged couples to use their married monogram for items in their registry. The married monogram may also be used in the wedding invitations, announcements and other related wedding items like wedding programs, aisle runner or unity candle.

Monogram design, rules, protocols and styles
Monogram styles, rules and protocols

After the Wedding

Couples can begin using their married monogram initials once the ceremony has taken place. Typical monograms consist of the husband’s last-name initial in the center and the first-name initials of the couple on either side in a smaller font.

If the couple is not going to share a last name after the wedding ceremony, they can use the two initials of their last names side by side in the same font. The couple chooses the order of the initials. I.e., Hudson and Lee would be “HL” or “LH.”

Monogram styles, rules and protocols

Monogram design could be simple enough for you to create on your own. Some stationery vendors also accept monogram design service for more elaborate options. Some styles may include small graphic elements that not only represent the person/ couple’s identity with motifs related to the of occasion that’s being celebrated.