Wedding invitations can be traditional or modern, depending on your style and the tone you want to set for your wedding. In today’s blog, let’s break down some of the differences and what to keep in mind for each wedding invitation style.
Wedding Invitation Etiquette For Either Style
When looking at a timeline for sending out invitations, traditionally, invitations go out six to eight weeks before the wedding if a non-destination wedding. On your invitation, you should include the dress code for your wedding or direct guests to a website with more information. When addressing the invitation, it’s important to let the guest know if they may bring a plus one, if the invitation is for the family or if it is for an individual person.
Traditional Wedding Invitations
A traditional wedding invitation will include formal language, such as “request the pleasure of your company.” Traditional wedding invitations also spell out everything including the date, time, and location. Traditional invitations will be on high quality paper, such as handmade paper or a finished velvet card stock. Techniques including letterpress; foil stamping adds a layer of elegance to your wedding invitations.
The term “host” on a traditional invitation generally means the bride’s parents, who are paying for the wedding (or others who also may be paying), so their names will appear at the top. Cost comes into play when selecting wedding invitations. A traditional invitation will generally be more expensive because of the quality of materials and printing techniques used.
More traditional invitations will include a full set of stationaries including: the invite, a formal RSVP card, a pre-addressed returned envelope, cards with directions, reception details, accommodation, and other information enclosed. Along with the formal language, a traditional invitation also has a strict format to follow. While you can add your names, venue details, and colors, the formal format leaves little room for personalization.
Modern Wedding Invitations
A modern wedding invitation uses more casual language and removes the formality of spelling numbers (26th versus the traditional “Twenty Sixth”). For a modern invitation, you may use a mixture of different materials such as acrylic, recycled paper, wood, or fabric. Digital printing techniques such as laser cutting, and UV printing allow for customization and unique design elements.
Modern invitations use more flexibility with the host lines, such as together with their families, regardless of who may be paying. A more casual language allows a more flexible host line.The most budget-friendly option is a modern invitation sent electronically, usually in an email with a link to the invitation/website. Be aware that some older guests may not have an email address (or check it very often), so a printed invitation may be necessary for them.
Not only are couples using modern printing techniques for their invitations, they’re incorporating things such as QR codes for RSVP’s, directing guests to your wedding website for more information such as choosing meals, directions, a schedule of events, and accommodations.
Modern invitations leave room for all the customizations you may need. Add colors, themes, illustrations, or use your own wording to make your wedding invitation personal for you. Having the freedom to create a wedding invitation that is uniquely yours is a plus for a modern invitation.
Consider this list as you’re making decisions about your invitations. Check out our bridal collection if you’re in the market for a wedding dress.