Wedding Planning Information

The wedding invitation can be as simple or complex as you want or need it to be. Traditionally, there are five main components to a wedding announcement – the outer envelope, inner envelope, reception card, response card, and map with directions.

The outer envelope was traditionally designed to prevent the invitation from being damaged during its trip through the mailing process. The envelope is home to the recipient’s name and address. It serves as a holder for the invitation and the three other components.

Upon opening the outer envelope, the inner envelope is revealed. This container houses the actual invitation. Many of today’s couples decide to bypass the inner envelope completely. This is because the outer envelope is sufficient for holding and protecting the invitation and its contents. If an inner envelope is used, it is custom to address the envelope to the invitees of the household. For example, Mr. and Mrs. John Smith. An address remains absent from the envelope. Additionally, the back flap is left unsealed.

The next piece of the invitation packet is the actual invitation. The most vital part of the package, the invitation can be a folded card or a one-sided card. When using a folded card, it is common to include the final aspects of the invitation package inside the announcement. Invitations featuring a one-sided card should be presented with the remaining packet on top of the card.

Along with the invitation, it is traditional to include a reception card. The reception card provides specific information regarding the celebration’s location and time. Reception cards are only necessary when the ceremony and reception are set to take place in separate locations.

With the reception card is the response card. The response card is typically small in size as to not distract from the actual invitation. This card allows for guests to accept or regret the invitation. Guests are encouraged to RSVP. To increase the amount of responses, it is recommended the mailer include a self-addressed stamped envelope to return the card in. Additionally, it is a good idea to add in a deadline for the RSVP. This will help to encourage guests to respond to the invitation regardless of if they can or cannot attend. If the response card does not feature the names of the guest(s), lightly number each card and assign a guest(s) with a correlating number. This way, in the event a card is returned without a name, it is still possible to determine where the card originated.

When the first, printed wedding invitations were founded, the need for a map and directions to the event was non-existent. Today, however, this is not the case. An optional insertion, a map and detailed directions to the wedding’s location assist the guest in successfully finding the event. If there will be guests traveling from out of town, it is also a good idea to include information on local accommodations. This information should entail the establishment’s name, address, directions, and telephone number.

Should you Choose Contemporary or Traditional Wedding Invitations?

As you choose between contemporary and traditional wedding invitations, you need to know how to spot the differences. Traditional wedding invitations are almost always very simple. They are generally single-sided, meaning that they do not open up like a card. All of your wedding invitation information is printed on the front of the card. These wedding invitations are often white or cream. If there is any decoration, it is usually similar in color to the cardstock itself. Traditional wedding invitations are meant to make a classic and elegant statement. That is why couples generally choose a fancier font in order to make the invitations look even more beautiful.

Choosing between traditional or contemporary wedding invitations may be as easy as choosing the invitation that you like the most. However, there is something to consider. What is the atmosphere that you want on your wedding day? Have you always dreamed of the traditional white wedding with all of the traditions that go along with it? Then the answer is simple. You need to choose a traditional wedding invitation. If your wedding is going to be a very elegant affair, then it is also a good idea to go with a traditional wedding invitation.

If you are planning a themed wedding or something a bit more light hearted, then a contemporary wedding invitation may be more appropriate to go with your chosen wedding atmosphere. They may also help you to tie in your chosen theme with your wedding invitations.

Why is it so important to make the right choice between temporary or traditional wedding invitations? The fact is that your wedding guests get a lot of information based on the wedding invitations that you choose. There is a lot more conveyed through wedding invitations than the day and location of your wedding. The style of your wedding invitation is going to show your guests what they can expect from your upcoming wedding. That traditional wedding invitation is going to show your guests that your wedding will be traditional and elegant. A contemporary wedding invitation is going to show your guests that you have chosen a theme or are having a less traditional wedding. This is very important to guests so that they are prepared for the wedding. They will know how to dress properly and be prepared for what to expect at the wedding.

Choosing between traditional or contemporary wedding invitations is a personal choice. This is your wedding and you are the wedding planner. Ultimately the decision is yours alone. Just remember that it is always a good idea to tie in all of your wedding planning with your chosen wedding theme. If you decide to follow this advice, then think carefully as you make the all important decision of choosing between traditional or contemporary invitations.