About wedding invitations Types of invitations Get the right wording Tips for addressing and sending Assembling your invitations Postage and other tips FAQs about invitations and announcements How to cut your guest list Taking care of out-of-towners Thank you notes Wedding stationery checklist

Types of Invitations -
There are basically six types of invitations:

• Engraved Invitations
• Thermographed Invitations
• Printed Invitations
• Calligraphy
• Hand Colored Invitations
• Box Set Invitations

Engraved Invitations
Engraving is an age old process where the paper is stamped with a mold, leaving an indentation or imprint on the paper. Ink is then applied to the imprint and allowed to dry. Engraved invitations are by far the most difficult to prepare. Plan on six weeks -- or more -- for delivery of the final product once you've approved the design and content. For the most formal of weddings, engraved invitations are usually a must, and are certainly the most expensive of all types.

Thermographed Invitations
Thermography is a popular alternative to engraved invitations today and is a less expensive alternative. Thermographed invitations are prepared by using a glue based solution to set the lettering and design of your invitations. Then ink and very fine powder, or "dust", is applied to the glue based solution and heated. As the drying process takes place, the lettering becomes raised for an attractive and elegant look.

Printed Invitations
Another cost effective solution for your invitations are printed invitations. Most professional printers offer a wide array of selection and styles. Turn around times for printed invitations are better than most other alternatives.

Calligraphed Invitations
Calligraphy is elegant and stylish and has a flair of the "old fashioned". Invitations prepared this way are handwritten in a script lettering that takes time and effort. Usually, special training is required for that "perfect" look. Allow plenty of time if you choose to go this route, and remember, calligraphy ink is usually not waterproof and may smudge or streak with minimal moisture.

Hand Colored Invitations
Take a basic invitation and add flair and style - a personal touch of your own - with hand colored or painted designs. This approach is almost always a unique and inner glimpse of you and your fiancé. Far from the traditional engraved invitation, more and more people today are taking a look at the "personality" and ease of preparing hand colored invitations.

Box Set Invitations
Quick and easy, boxed set invitations come essentially prepared for you, in a wide array of designs and styles. It's then up to you what you add and how you "dress them up". We've seen some incredibly wonderful and colorful boxed set invitations that created the perfect touch - creating excitement and fun!

Addressing
When it comes to addressing there aren't a lot of options here. Addressing is usually done by hand or by computer --no labels.

Hand Lettering
Hand lettering by a professional calligrapher provides both a personalized and elegant appearance to your invitation. Calligraphy is challenging and requires some practice. If you've never done calligraphy before, and really want to address the envelopes yourself, pick up a book at the library or take a short course (many local craft stores offer classes). When addressing the envelopes, you don't have to use calligraphy. If you have nice hand writing, that will work fine too.

Computer Generated Lettering
Computers and high-quality printers today offer a variety of calligraphy fonts – as well as quality and consistent results. Also, some invitation shops have a calligraphy machine that is actually a pen that's moved by a computer. This is certainly a time saver.

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