Wedding Invitations
By Polly Bibb
When it comes to wedding invitations, many factors need to be considered. Brides and grooms should have an estimated guest list, budget in mind for the invitations, and plenty of time. It is important to take time to look for the perfect wedding invitation fit and allow time for the invitations to be ordered and printed. During the lull between ordering the invitations and waiting for them, be sure to gather all of the addresses of your guests.
There are many options out there for wedding invitations. How do you know where to start? FranklinIs contacted the experts at Social Graces. Social Graces specializes in printed invitations, personalized stationary, wedding planning, cards, and gifts. The following is an interview with Beth Weatherford, co-owner of Social Graces in Cool Springs.
How long should a bride wait before ordering her “save the date” and regular invitations?
Save the dates are typically sent out no later than 3 to 4 months before the wedding, maybe even earlier for destination or out-of-town weddings. Your wedding invitations need to be mailed 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding, so ordering them a few months in advance is wise. And don’t forget to stock up on your stationery. Showers and gifts start coming in sooner than you think!
How do prices vary in ordering wedding invites?
There are a very wide range of prices out there. We carry everything from the most simple to the very elaborate. We have several beautiful albums in the store that are geared toward the budget-conscious bride. If you are on a budget, just be sure to let us know! It is important not to let prices intimidate you. There are several ways to cut costs and still have a beautiful invitation.
What are the most popular choices that brides make at Social Graces?
Our brides have really chosen across the board. The good thing about choosing invitations these days is that you can really create most anything you have in mind. We also love working with brides that don’t know where to begin, and don’t really have anything in mind. We have had brides come in with coffee, sit on the sofa and flip through every album – just to see what is out there. Most are so surprised that they are able to narrow it down and choose something they truly love!
Is calligraphy still in? Is it popular to have the envelopes hand addressed?
I don’t think calligraphy will ever go out of style. Your invitation is the first thing your guests will see, and sets the tone for the wedding. After choosing the perfect invitation, most brides choose to have them hand addressed, keeping them just as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside.
What are the new popular trends in wedding invitations for brides this coming spring/summer?
COLOR! Our newest albums, while still featuring classic styles, are full of beautiful colored papers, inks, and embellishments. We welcome the creative bride who is looking for something unique and original. Chocolate brown papers and inks have also stayed very popular.
Do wedding invitations vary depending on whether or not it is the bride’s first or second marriage?
No. The bride, regardless of age or number of times she has been married, should choose an invitation that best represents her and her groom’s style and gives her guests a forecast of the happy event to come. A first-time bride marring in her parents’ backyard with a handful of close friends may choose a very casual, simple invitation. omeone who has been married before may be planning the elegant, elaborate wedding she has always wanted and would therefore choose a fancier invitation.
