Tips to Help Make Selecting Wedding Invitations Easier

As you are planning your wedding, you will discover there is more information that you could've imagined, so here are a few tips when you are ready for selecting invitations:

• Timing: You should be ordering wedding invitations 4-6 months prior to the wedding. You don't need to start looking a year in advance unless you are looking at save the dates or intend to order. If you are looking too far in advance, you may become frustrated because companies change designs and pricing, and sometimes get rid of whole albums (selections).


• When you look the first time, we recommend going by yourself, with a mother or a girlfriend. We don't recommend you go with your fiance unless you think he will be extremely interested. You will need at least 30-45 minutes to look the first time and get a good handle on what you're looking at. It will be overwhelming for you, even more so for your fiance. Most brides bring back their fiance after they've narrowed the options to a few selections and then ask his opinion.
• Also, don't come with a large contingent of people. There isn't always space available for them to sit and it can be more stressful for you if a lot of people are trying to give their input.


• If you have an idea of what you want, that's great! But, be open to ideas. Often when you see ideas in a magazine, the prices either aren't revealed or they may be priced only for the invitation, not giving you an accurate idea of the cost for the suite that you will need. Keep in mind, the expensive invitations can't be duplicated inexpensively because 1) what gives them the beautiful aesthetic is what makes them expensive, whether it is the printing process, multiple colors, multiple layers or any other design feature, and 2) the designs you see are copyrighted -- these designers put their heart and soul, so please have some respect for the hard work, time and creativity they have decided to share with you.


• When working with your stationer, give them feedback while you are looking. It helps us to narrow the selection for you so you don't spend hours looking only to get overwhelmed. We want to help you find what you're looking for and maybe you don't know. But it is helpful to point out things you like as you are looking. We can't help if you don't tell us!


• Taking pictures: Do not automatically assume that it is ok to take pictures of the invitations you see. Please ask before you do so. As previously mentioned, the designs that you see are copyrighted and most companies do not allow pictures. You may draw it so you can remember, but if you need to show someone, bring them back with you another time. Remember, the invitations you see are created by designers who have put their heart, soul and lots of time into their work.