The traditional wedding invitation was either white or ivory paper with black ink... and always engraved! Today, many brides still want the elegant and formal look of the "traditional wedding invitation", but for others that want something different - the choices are endless!

Your wedding invitation is the first thing your guests will see so it should set the tone and theme of your wedding day - formal, semi-formal, or casual. So, here's a quick lesson about invitations...

What You'll Need - Your invitations will generally include:

• The outer invitation envelope
• An invitation
• A reception card
• A response card
• Another envelope for the response card
• Information for guests on where to stay, how to get there, and important phone numbers
• Detailed directions with addresses and for the church and reception

Types of Invitations - There are basically six (6) types of invitations you can select from:

• Engraved Invitations
• Thermo graphed 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.

Thermo graphed Invitations

Thermography is a popular alternative to engraved invitations today and is a less expensive alternative. Thermo graphed 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.

Calligraphied 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 - tell your fiancé -"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. 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 - and offer 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!