Expert’s Guide to Invitation Shopping

By Holly Peters with Papeterie

Invitations have come a long way in the past 10-15 years. So many choices in looks, delivery, cost (not to mention the etiquette rules) can send your head spinning! With the intensity of wedding planning evolving, many brides don’t know where to start. Here are some key points for you to consider when shopping for wedding invitations.

The Look
What is the day you’ve always dreamed of look like? Is it modern, traditional, or casual? Knowing the theme you would like to convey with your invitation will help you narrow your search.

Pinterest boards are great to find ideas you’d like to emulate but beware that many of these gorgeous invitations are on the pricier side. Your local invitation specialist can guide you in helping you create the look you want while sticking to your budget!

The Cost
By now you are aware that weddings can be quite a costly venture. Knowing your budget and what you are willing to pay will go a long way in making invitation shopping easier. Don’t forget to factor in postage! Some invitations may take more than one stamp and also response cards should be stamped for your guests to send back to you. Costs can also be affected by the printing process, the number of pieces in the invitation, and the total number to be sent.

Where to Buy?
Online or brick and mortar store? The emergence of online shopping has completely changed the landscape for wedding planning. You can find just about anything online but the question is, should you? Working with an online company may seem easy but there are important questions that you should ask before you work with anyone. What is the turnaround time? What happens if I am not happy with the final product? Who will help me with the etiquette in wording and what to include on my invitation?

What to Buy?
Your wedding day is a special occasion that will happen only once and if anything deserves the respect of a printed invitation, it’s your big day. Consider the ages of ALL your guests. It may sound like an easy idea to email your invites, but all of your guests may not be as tech savvy as you and your friends. Your grandparents, family, and friends over 40+ are not likely to see an email as an official or proper invitation to an event as special as a wedding.

When picking your invitations, picture the excitement your guests will have when opening up their mailbox and getting that first impression of your big day. Whether you go modern or traditional, your invitations should reflect you and your sweetheart. Find the perfect set that emulates your love and will look great on your guests’ refrigerator doors!

Holly Peters is the Owner and Lead Designer of Papeterie Fine Stationery and Gifts in Bon Air. With a background in design Holly and her experienced staff enjoy bringing your custom invitation ideas to life. Papeterie also has an extensive gift shop for all of your gift giving occasions. Follow on Facebook/Instagram and make your appointment on papeterierichmond.com.

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