You’re getting married, and you want to share the news in a special, personal way. Custom wedding invitations deliver that sparkle-in-your-eye treatment to the ones who mean the most. From classic to modern to avante-garde styles, there is a style that fits your vision. But which to choose? We reached out to local invitation artists to offer advice on the dos and don’ts, picking a memorable piece, and other tips on wedding invitation trends.
Jenna Phillips, Philips Designs, Easton
What are the latest trends in modern wedding invitations, and how can couples stand out with a fresh, yet still classy, look?
When you think of a modern wedding invitation, typically you see clean, timeless, chic and, at times, minimalistic suites. However, the latest trends have unique characteristics that creatively represent the couple to tell their special story. We are seeing couples add a pop of color, whether that be bold or a neutral. Many love to create personalized monograms and crests. Phillips Designs’ favorite way for our couples to stand out is with custom artwork. Pieces are created specifically for the couple, and we love creating patterns, illustrating venues and, of course, adding fur babies to wedding stationery.
Texture is a game changer when looking to have your wedding invitation stand out from all the rest! Think of different printing methods, custom die-cut shapes or unique edges, flowing ribbons and don’t be afraid to play around with different types of paper and patterns.
Modern invitations means something different to everyone! Remember to always be true to yourselves individually as well as a couple. There are many ways to dream up and create a modern invitation while still keeping it classy!
Keeping It Classic
Custom wedding invitations from Heather Renee Weddings
Courtesy of Heather Renee Weddings
Tara Harris, Lace & Ink, Custom Printing & Accessories, New Milford
For the traditionalists out there, describe what makes a great classic wedding invitation. What are the dos and don’ts?
A classic wedding invitation honors the longstanding nuptial customs that have been cherished for generations. It presents grace and elegance. A classic wedding invitation would typically include a beautiful printing method such as calligraphy, letterpress or thermography, subtle colors, perhaps a monogram and wax seal. It can also include homemade paper or deckle-edged paper. A classic wedding invitation is timeless. It can be combined with some complementary pieces that may be more trendy. The beauty of a classic wedding invitation is its ability to be like a blank canvas to be combined with the couple’s personal inspiration and style.
Do be sure to learn about addressing a formal envelope using full names and titles. Don’t use symbols or acronyms. Do have a timeline regarding when to send out invitations and when to expect responses back. Consistency is important. For example: using the same ink color and typeface on your invitations and accessory cards to match or complement your invitation.
Custom wedding invitations from Pushing the Envelope in North Haven
Courtesy of Susan Margolis / Pushing the Envelope
Going off the beaten path
Susan Margolis, Pushing the Envelope, North Haven
For the brides who want something truly one-of-a-kind, what are off-the-beaten-path invitation ideas?
For couples who want to create a truly unique wedding invitation that reflects their individuality, there are unlimited one-of-a-kind, creative ideas to explore. To personalize an invitation, one option is to incorporate artwork such as watercolor illustrations or sketches that depict images of the couple’s favorite moments, favorite places, wedding-specific items like their rings, or even their pets.
You can also create a themed invitation that reflects your favorite colors, places or style. It could be a stunning, beach-inspired invitation using the colors of the sand and sea, or rich, thick, shimmery paper stock that you marry with great typography and letterpress printing and then add a little bit of glitz to give the invitation a bespoke touch with a “wow” effect. Add some more artistic flair by using unconventional materials such as acrylic, lace or silk. Go over the top and package your invitation in a box or folio to make your invitation presentation truly special and sensational and one that will make your guests not want to miss your big day.
This is part of a series featuring interviews with wedding specialists appearing in each issue of The Connecticut Bride. For a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue, be sure to tag and follow us on Instagram @theconnecticutbride or Facebook @theconnecticutbride