Creating your own wedding invitations is a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your special day while saving some money. Whether you’re going for a rustic, modern, or elegant look, this guide will walk you through every step, from choosing the right fonts to selecting paper and knowing when to send them out.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before diving into the design process, you’ll need a few essential supplies:
- Cardstock or Paper: High-quality paper will make your invitations look polished and professional. Some great options include:
- Matte or Glossy Cardstock: Common for a clean, formal look.
- Textured Paper: For a more sophisticated or vintage feel.
- Pearlescent Paper: Adds a subtle shimmer for a glamorous effect.
- Recycled Paper: Ideal for eco-conscious couples.
You can find suitable paper at craft stores like Michaels, Joann Fabrics, or online at sites like Paper Source, The Paper Chase, and Amazon. Look for paper that is at least 100 lb for sturdiness, especially for invitations that will be mailed.
- Envelopes: Match your paper with envelopes in a complementary color or texture. Consider adding a wax seal or ribbon to elevate the presentation.
- Design Software: If you’re doing everything digitally, you can use free design tools like Canva or Adobe Spark. If you’re familiar with graphic design, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are also great options.
Step 2: Choose Your Fonts
Your choice of fonts can set the tone for the entire invitation. Here are some popular font combinations to consider:
- Elegant & Formal:
- Serif fonts like Times New Roman or Garamond for a traditional look.
- Pair with script fonts like Dancing Script or Great Vibes for an elegant, flowing effect.
- Modern & Minimalistic:
- Clean sans-serif fonts like Helvetica or Montserrat.
- You can also use Futura or Raleway for a chic, contemporary vibe.
- Rustic & Whimsical:
- Try Lobster for a friendly, handwritten look.
- Pair with Pacifico or Amatic SC for a playful style.
- Vintage:
- For a vintage feel, choose fonts like Playfair Display or Bodoni.
- Pair them with handwritten or calligraphy-style fonts like Sacramento or Lobster for a nostalgic touch.
You can find fonts on websites like Google Fonts, Font Squirrel, and DaFont. Make sure the fonts are legible and not too overwhelming on the page.
Step 3: What Information to Include
Your wedding invitation should provide the essential details in a clear and concise way. Here’s a breakdown of what to include:
- Couple’s Names: This is usually the most prominent text on the invitation, typically at the top.
- Event Details:
- Date and Time: The exact day, date, and time of the ceremony.
- Venue: The location of the ceremony and reception, if applicable.
- RSVP Information: Include instructions on how to RSVP (via email, phone, or an online form).
- Dress Code or Theme: If you have a dress code, theme, or any special requests (such as “Black Tie” or “Casual Attire”), be sure to mention it.
- Additional Details: Consider adding your wedding website for guests to learn more about accommodations, registry details, or the schedule for the big day.
Step 4: Design Your Invitations
When designing your invitations, keep a few design tips in mind:
- Keep it Simple: Less is more. Don’t overcrowd the invitation with too much text.
- Color Palette: Stick to the theme of your wedding for a cohesive look. Popular wedding colors include soft pastels, classic whites and ivories, and even bold hues like navy or burgundy.
- Imagery: You can incorporate florals, geometric designs, or even a monogram of your initials.
- Balance: Ensure the text is well-spaced and centered. If you’re using a large image or a border, make sure it doesn’t take attention away from the text.
If you’re unsure, there are plenty of templates available on Canva, Etsy, or other online platforms that you can customize to match your theme.
Step 5: Proof and Print Your Invitations
Once you’ve designed your invitations, be sure to proofread everything! Double-check the names, date, and address to avoid any mistakes. It’s a good idea to ask a friend or family member to look over it as well.
- Printing: For a professional look, you can either print the invitations yourself using a high-quality printer or take them to a print shop. If you’re printing at home, make sure you use a printer capable of handling thick cardstock.
Step 6: How Far Before the Wedding Should You Send Invitations?
Wedding invitations should be sent 6-8 weeks before your wedding day. This gives guests enough time to RSVP and plan accordingly. If you have out-of-town guests or if you’re having a destination wedding, consider sending invitations 3-4 months in advance.
Additionally, you may want to send out Save the Date cards 6-9 months before the wedding, especially if your wedding date falls during a busy season.
Step 7: Final Touches and Mailing Your Invitations
- Envelope Stuffing: Add a personal touch by handwriting the names and addresses on the envelopes or using a calligraphy font to print them.
- Stamps: Choose stamps that reflect your wedding theme. You can even find custom wedding stamps online to match the design of your invitations.
- Mailing: Once everything is ready, mail your invitations 6-8 weeks before the big day, allowing enough time for RSVPs.
Extra Tips for Making Wedding Invitations:
- DIY Extras: Consider adding a wax seal, ribbon, or a custom stamp for added elegance.
- Online Tools: If you’re looking for a DIY online tool, check out websites like Zazzle, Minted, or Vistaprint for customizable wedding invitations.
- Eco-Friendly Options: If you’re environmentally conscious, consider using recycled paper, plantable paper, or eco-friendly ink.
Conclusion
Creating your own wedding invitations is a beautiful and meaningful way to express your style while keeping your wedding personal and budget-friendly. By following this guide, you’ll have everything you need to design stunning invitations that are as unique as your love story!