DIY: Make Your Own (Wedding) Invitations

Aug 23

Invitations: Mandana Ansari of Girl & the BayEvent Design: Jennifer Thomas of One Fine DayPhoto: Danielle Poff Calligraphy: Andrea Moridi of WildescriptMoon Stickers + Envelopes: JJkun — Invitations: Mandana Ansari of Girl & the Bay
Event Design: Jennifer Thomas of One Fine Day
Photo: Danielle Poff
Calligraphy: Andrea Moridi of Wildescript
Moon Stickers + Envelopes: JJkun

Invitations set the tone for your upcoming event...and they're your first impression. While digital invitations (think Paperless Post) are incredibly convenient and becoming much more socially acceptable, there is still something so special about snail mail. When it comes to wedding invitations, I'm a huge fan of giving your guests a sneak peek at what they can expect from your upcoming nuptials.

I've always been a big fan of stationary, pens, stickers, stamps (I worked and taught classes at a Scrapbook store for 4 years during high school and college LOL), so I often jump at the chance to make invitations for my own parties or for others.

My best friends Jennifer and Mark started shopping around for wedding invitations for their multi-day wedding - online, in-person on Instagram. I was shocked at the prices they were being quoted. So, I convinced the happy couple to collaborate with me on DIY invites that wouldn't break the bank and represent their personal aesthetic.

Together, we found fonts they loved on Creative Market, hand painted celestial themed envelopes and labels on Etsy and recruited my dear friend Andrea from Wildescript to adorn the envelopes with her gorgeous modern lettering magic. Since the envelopes were ornate, we kept the contents clean with a minimalistic vibe and gold foil. I printed the invitations at a local printer (yay for deals in Chinatown!) and paid in cash to get a little discount (don't forget, there's always room for negotiation when you choose a small business over chains who don't always spend the extra time getting things right).

Thinking of making your own invitations? Read on for my personal tips to getting it perfect.

1. SET A BUDGET

While you can start out wanting to save a few Benjamins, it's important to note that things can add up quickly - embossing, foil ink, envelope liner, heavyweight cardstock, specialty envelopes, the list goes on. Set a budget up front and make a list of your must-haves. If gold foil is something you just can't live without, perhaps skip the envelope liners.

2. SIZE MATTERS

Tri-fold or flat? Rounded edges or sharp? Square or rectangle? Determining the size and shape of your invitations up front is extremely important - envelopes and postage costs will vary depending on which route you go and this is where expenses can catch you by surprise. I love getting creative when it comes to size and shape, it's an easy way to stand out in a pile of mail.

3. PUT YOUR BACK INTO IT

Why put all your effort on the inside when you can make a killer first impression by giving some extra love to the envelope. Use cardstock, decorative paper (gift wrap even works) or fabric to create envelope liners.

4. PLAY ON WORDS

Spend a little extra time getting your wording right. I love perusing Pinterest for invitations that are done right for a little inspiration. Be sure to use wording that reflects you and your fiancé's style. Your invitations are meant to be informative, so make sure you're very clear with important information like parking, directions, overnight accommodations, etc. Oh, and, I shouldn't have to tell you this, but don't forget to spell check and have a few family members check for any grammatical errors to avoid a bridezilla breakdown when you notice a typo too late.

5. LET ME UPGRADE YA

Find a way to give your invitations a little something extra. It's amazing what a few strokes of watercolor can do on white cardstock, choosing a luxe sticker or stamp on the back of envelopes, or even hiring a local calligrapher to address your envelopes. A little something extra can go a long way as far as impressions and appearance go.