This year, I challenged myself to create and produce at least one new design every quarter. What was popular in wedding invitations five years ago isn’t the same and as trends change and my own design aesthetic evolves, it’s important to continue creating!
Since moving to San Diego, I’m super inspired by the “California casual” vibe. I also love “surfer chic” and “coastal-boho-modern”. These phrases might feel silly, but’s is a aesthetic, lifestyle, and vibe that give me all the heart eyes. Whether it’s clothing, interior design, or weddings – I am into it.
The Invitation Inspiration
When designing, I always start with inspiration – sometimes a wedding venue, but in this case I started with a couple: Hannah and Dylan of Bachelor in Paradise. Not only are they totally adorable, but have the best #vibes. (Vibe count is up to three now, I’ll try to lay off).
Their relationship feels playful, laid back, and loving. Even though they had to go on a reality TV show to meet, something about them just feels effortless.
Dylan is a SoCal boy and Hannah is a Southern girl who now finds herself in Southern California. (I can relate – I moved from Atlanta, Georgia to San Diego for my love interest as well!)
I wanted to give an ode to their love story and personalities within the invitation design. It doesn’t always have to be a literal representation, but the overall look and feel! Minimalist, but fun. Modern, with a touch of bohemian flair!
Instead of the typical wedding monogram, I created something unique with their date.
Letterpress Love
I love letterpress for wedding invitations – the texture is unmatched and sure to be the perfect first impression for your guests (pun totally intended). Read more about what exactly letterpress is here – and why I love it so, so much!
The taupe letterpress ink makes these invitations perfect for a wedding of any season (even though we don’t have true seasons here in SoCal!)
I paired with the vellum mailing envelope to bring the element of surprise and a black RSVP envelope to give a hint of formality. Even though these two are laid back, they have an elevated style that can be brought to their wedding day.
Your Custom Wedding Invitations
Like this Bachelor in Paradise wedding invitation and want to customize it for your love fest? We can change the colors, fonts, wording, envelopes, and even the printing method to fit your wedding vibe. Yes, it’s a vibe!
When you start wedding planning and begin to shop for invitations, there are a lot of words you might come across you haven’t ever heard before. Consider this your wedding invitation glossary!
What is a wedding invitation suite?
A suite is the term used to refer to the wedding invitation “package”. It’s your invitation plus all the coordinating pieces that go with it. My standard suite includes the invitation, mailing envelope, RSVP card, and RSVP envelope. Rather than saying invitations, suite encompasses everything together!
Any add-ons that you put with your invitation become part of the suite. For example, embellishments like envelope liners and extra insert cards (for things like the rehearsal dinner!)
What is an invitation proof?
The proof is the beginning part of the design process – it’s the digital design of your invitation suite. A proof is sent so you can not only review things like spelling and information, but also to give you a concept of what the actual printed product will look like.
Although colors can appear much differently on a screen, the proof should give you a pretty good idea of what your invitation will look like IRL. In my process, I do three rounds of proofs: the original + two rounds to make any edits or changes before approving to print.
What are printing methods?
The printing method is the way your invitation will be printed. I currently offer options for digital printing, thermography, foil stamping, and letterpress. Each printing method gives a different look + feel and pricing can vary greatly between then.
When it comes to wedding invitations, I offer custom and semi custom designs. For custom designs, I work with a couple to create a moodboard and design their invitation based on a look and concept we discuss. You can learn more about my custom design process here.
With semi custom designs, a couple finds one of my existing invitation designs to make their own. There’s no charge for changing things like colors (other than artwork), envelopes, printing methods, fonts, and wording. If there are changes to the artwork itself or the overall layout is changed, semi custom designs can incur a design fee. Most of the couples I work with choose to order semi custom wedding invitations.
What are belly bands?
To be honest, the phrase belly band kinda makes me cringe a little. It’s not something I would associate with wedding invitations if I didn’t have the industry experience. However silly, it’s the words used to describe the band that goes around the invitation suite to keep everything organized.
Besides being functional, belly bands are also just really pretty! They add a decorative element to your invitations and can be a fun way to bring in another color or show off your wedding monogram.
What’s an inner envelope?
Traditionally, wedding invitations were mailed with double envelopes: the outer with the formal name and full address, the inner with the first names of the people invited. It’s been said this started way back when mail was delivered by horse and buggy. The outer envelopes would get dirty during mailing, thus inner envelopes were used to protect the pretty paper inside.
Now that we live in the times of the modern post office, the need for double envelopes has decreased. I recommend them for very formal and/or traditional weddings and for heavier invitation suites. When using double thick paper, adding an inner envelope or envelope liner helps protect the contents – just like what they were originally designed for!
Inner envelopes are also helpful to be very clear and specific with who is and who isn’t invited to the wedding. It allows you to be explicit by addressing the invitation only to the intended guests.
What’s an envelope liner?
Envelope liners are one of my favorite invitation details! It’s a piece of paper (or other light + flexible material) that goes inside your envelope. They’re a fun way to surprise your guests, add a unique design element, and can be helpful to give protection when mailing.
I think the term finishing might be unique to my process – other stationer’s could include it with “assembly”. For my orders, finishing includes your RSVP envelope printing, RSVP postage, and full assembly (including envelope stuffing) if you also add mailing envelope printing. Basically it’s the option to have everything done for you – or to do it yourself!
The couples I work with are split on adding full finishing – it’s totally preference! I do recommend finishing for suites that have in-depth layers so that I can fully assembly everything. Otherwise, you’re responsible for tying twine, adding belly bands, or putting together pockets – and since I know it takes some practice, I’m happy to handle that for you. Well, there you have it! You’re pretty much a wedding invitation professional now. Questions? Interested in working together? I’d love to hear from you!
I’m not sure if it’s because I’m getting older or if 2019 was a fluke – but this year flew by! In wedding time, we’re well into next year as couples order invitations 4-6 months before the big day.
Every year, styles, tastes, and preferences change and evolve a bit. I’m excited to share wedding invitation trends for 2020. Based not only on what the couples I work with tend to start choosing, but fashion, lifestyle, and even interior design.
Trends that are Sticking Around
Wedding Monograms
Wedding invitations and monograms go together like coffee and creamer. (Writing this in the morning, can you tell? I’m just sayin – they’re a great pair!) Monograms are the perfect detail to use as a design and great because you can reuse them throughout your entire wedding suite – stamps, programs, menus, thank you cards, and more!
Monogram wedding invitations were super popular in 2019 and this design has already been my most requested for weddings next year. I also see couples choosing simple letter monograms for modern weddings.
Blues and Greens
This year, blue and green tones made up a huge portion of my couple’s wedding color palettes. There are so many shades that can apply to every season and it’s a color that looks great on most people when considering bridesmaid’s dresses.
Along with pink, wedding invitations with blue and green are sticking around for 2020 weddings. My favorite way to bring these in is by choosing a colored envelope – included with all wedding invitation suites!
Update: Pantone has announced Classic Blue as the color of the year for 2020! I’m not surprised since blue has been a strong color in wedding palettes recently – and am happy to know it’s sticking around for a little longer.
Envelope Liners
I began designing wedding invitations in 2014, where couples were using envelope liners in colorful floral patterns (Rifle Paper Co was a fave!). Although the designs have changed, the concept of envelope liners is here to stay – and growing in popularity.
Not only are liners a fun detail and way to bring in another color, but also protect your invitations during mailing. There are a few packages where I really recommend envelope liners, like when using double thick cardstock. Read this post on determining whether you need envelope liners – or just want them!
What’s In: Wedding Invitation Trends for 2020
Minimalist, Modern Design
Less artwork, more white space! I’m excited to see couples opt for more minimalist and modern designs for 2020 weddings. Although there are a few floral designs that remain popular, the requests for overall “simpler” invitations is growing.
Brides and grooms want to make a statement without going overboard on design. They’re choosing to invest in details like upgraded printing methods, textured paper, vellum jackets, and wax seals — keeping the design itself minimalist for an effortless feel.
Foil Printing, Rose Gold
Pink, blush, dusty rose, mauve, whatever you want to call it has always had a place in wedding invitations. Especially for the couples I work with, ‘cause it’s a personal favorite of mine.
As a unique way to bring in pink, rose gold foil printing is going to be super popular for wedding invitations in 2020. Whether you want to go full-on romantic with rose gold floral artwork and pink envelopes, or just use the foil for emphasis on your names, I know we’ll be seeing an appearance of it in many wedding suites this year!
Letterpress and Thick Paper
Letterpress is great for minimalist designs due to the limited number of ink colors that can be used. I think the overall aesthetic of letterpress is both modern and classic (it is printed with a centuries old machine after all!) which couples appreciate. Invitations with letterpress are printed on 220# double thick, luxe cotton cardstock – who can resist?
I’m torn between calling the trend of “dark envelopes” or “white ink printing”. Is it dark envelopes because people love white ink or is it white ink because people love dark envelopes? We may never know, but I’m here for it!
This year, I am looking forward to working with couples who want to bring in white ink printing on their envelopes. It will really add a pop to black, dark green, and burgundy envelopes. I’m excited to announce that I’m now offering white ink printing in house! Read more about it right here.
My favorite wedding invitation trend for 2020 is the mismatched wedding suites! Using different printing methods and different papers is such a fun way to bring in unique details. This suite is the ultimate mix and match: an invitation with rose gold, insert card using thermography on recycled kraft paper, and mismatched envelopes. Give your paper some personality!
Mixing printing methods can also be effective for couples on a budget. Want to use foil on your invitations, but keep some dollars for honeymoon spending? Opt for an invitation with foil and print the insert cards digitally. Since only one piece is using upgraded printing method, your overall cost will be significantly less!
At the end of the {wedding} day, it’s all about what you love. Trending or not, your invitation design should represent you as a couple and set the tone for the entire event. These aren’t rules or absolutes and I encourage every couple to have fun with their paper, so you do you, girl!
Are you getting married this year? I’d love to work together to create your dream wedding invitations! Start by ordering a sample or downloading my Information + Pricing Guide.
When I started designing wedding invitations back in 2014, I was single and floral artwork was majorly trending. Things have changed a bit since then – not only are the floral invitations fading out, but I can now appreciate a dude’s point of view since I now live with one. My dude makes comments when I show off a new design from the printer and doesn’t hold back with his thoughts. That being said, not every guy is opinionated on the details and I work with tons of couples who still opt for subtle florals and blush envelopes. However, I wanted to put together a list of groom, aka dude, approved wedding invitation designs.
Clean, Modern Wedding Invitations
This suite is always a favorite of both guys and gals. It has a clean, modern feel with subtle floral detail in the envelope liner. Not only are these colors (green and navy) a personal favorite combo, but it has a touch of masculine energy while still feeling wedding-y. (Yep, just made up that word!)
Minimalist Thermography Invitations
This “less is more” suite has no frills, which is always groom approved. Simple, minimalist designs are majorly trending for next year and the colors can be customized to match your wedding palette. Thermography printing adds a luxe, texture touch to these modern invitations.
Brewery Inspired Invites
It’s simple and minimalist and definitely dude approved. Even with the rose gold detail, this mix and match suite appeals to all fun couples who want a unique, modern wedding invitation design. Inspired by a local kombucha brewery, these invitations would work great for a brewery or industrial wedding. All colors, including the foil, can be changed to fit your vibe!
Blue Watercolor Wedding Invitations
The color blue – dusty blue, slate, new blue, cool blue, whatever blue you want to call it is absolutely the color of the year for 2019 and I’m betting it will stay around for 2020 weddings. Of course, blue is the traditional “boy” color, but it’s so beautiful to incorporate in details – blue table settings, bridesmaid dresses, and of course invitations.
Both of these blue watercolor invitation designs are groom and bride approved. They’re perfect for a boho beach or modern destination wedding by the water.
Playful Letterpress
Ok, but who doesn’t love this playful design? It’s got color, a unique monogram, a mix of printing methods, and fun icons. Printed on double thick cotton cardstock, any paper snob will approve.
Monogram Letterpress
This classic letterpress invitation appeals to both traditional and modern couples. It’s a timeless design and the single color ink keeps it simple. Dudes love simple and hopefully seeing your name next to theirs gives ‘em all the feels. This monogram design is also a favorite of moms! Maybe my next collection will be “mom approved wedding invitations”?! Let me know what you think in the comments below!
Invitations are a small detail with a big job – they’re the very first impression of your wedding day and should be a sneak peek of things to come. I love working with couples to find a design that reflects not only their wedding theme, but their personalities and style. The invitation is a chance to have fun and make the little details count!
One of my favorite ways to surprise and delight guests with a unique detail is through envelope liners. If you’re wondering what the heck an envelope liner is and if you actually need them for your invitations – have no fear! I’m gonna break it down for ya.
What are envelope liners?
Envelope liners are just what they sound like – paper (or other flexible material) that goes inside your wedding invitation envelope. There are so many possibilities for design and it can be a fun way to delight your guests as they open their mail.
They’re more than just pretty paper, because envelope liners help protect your invitation suite through the mail. Sometimes the post office can get a little rough and liners give some extra stiffness to your envelope to ensure your paper doesn’t get bent or torn.
What do envelope liners look like?
Here’s where it gets really fun! Envelope liners are perfect to bring in an additional color through the invitation suite or add a pop of personality. I offer solid colored envelope liners (the gold leaf shown below is a best seller!) and patterned envelope liners like the floral print above that can be printed in any color.
There’s also an option for a custom printed liner if you want something to match your design. This is a good place for artwork, a wedding monogram, or even a photo! Lastly, I offer hand cut envelope liners from things like speciality paper, gift wrap, and maps.
Have a vision for your own design? Let’s chat and see what detail we can come up with together!
Do I need envelope liners?
In many cases, envelope liners are totally an optional upgrade. However, there are a couple instances where I recommend either adding a liner or doing double envelopes – outer mailing envelope containing an inner envelope.
For invitations printed on double thick paper (yum), I always suggest a liner as support. Unless you have special postage, most envelopes are run through a sorting machine at the post office. With the heavy cardstock, it can cause problems since it’s extra thick.
If you do an invitation with a brad attachment, ribbon, or anything else that bulks up the envelope, adding a liner is a good idea. For the reasons above, you want to give your invitation the best chance to make it to your guests looking as pretty as it did when you mailed it!
How do I assemble envelope liners?
You don’t. That’s what I’m here for – as your invitation fairy godmother (cheesy, but true) I’ll put your liners in your envelopes. It’s one less thing off your to do list and since I’ve done this before you can rest assured they’ll look really good.
If you opt to have your envelopes printed (which I highly recommend! Read more about envelope printing in this post.) with assembly, your invitations will be shipped to you stuffed and ready to mail. Just add postage, seal shut, and off they go!
When couples start the process of ordering wedding invitations, they often ask about rehearsal dinner invitations. There are a couple different ways to handle these, depending on what works best for you and your guests.
Do I actually need to send rehearsal dinner invitations?
Well, yes – otherwise it leads to assumptions which might mean uninvited guests or worse, missing family members or friends. The dinner is typically done after the ceremony rehearsal and is often the night before the wedding. Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner is hosted (planned and paid for) by the groom’s parents, but in more modern times this has become fluid.
Who is invited?
Everyone who participates in the wedding rehearsal should be invited to the dinner, plus their partners. This includes the wedding party (bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers), the officiant, and immediate family of the bride and groom to be.
Some couples choose to invite all out-of-town guests, but this is totally optional. It is a way to get the party started and I say, the more the merrier! However, if budget and/or space doesn’t allow a large guest count, provide your traveling guests with local dinner recommendations. This can be done by leaving a welcome note in each guest’s hotel room.
Mailing Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Traditional etiquette states that the rehearsal dinner invitations should be mailed separately, and after, the wedding invitations. They can come from whomever is hosting and may or may not match the design of the other stationery. I always enjoy creating a rehearsal dinner invitation that complements the original design since these little details are what make your wedding special!
If you are mailing a separate card, the rehearsal dinner invitation should be sent about 3-4 weeks before the event date.
I always say rules are made to be broken – especially traditional wedding etiquette rules. I think understanding the etiquette is important, but it doesn’t mean every rule has to be followed. In an effort to save on paper, budget, and confusion some couples include an extra insert with their wedding invitation suite for the rehearsal invitation. It is printed on a smaller card, so only the most important details are listed. The insert is designed to match the rest of the wedding suite, but also provides an opportunity to do something different and fun!
What Information to Include
Speaking of what to include, the rehearsal dinner invitation should list all important logistics. The when and where are definitely included, along with the bride and groom’s names. Many times, the host is also named.
Feel free to get creative with wording! Some of my favorite rehearsal dinner invitations include titles like, “The Night Before”, “Love and Laughter before Happily Ever After” and of course, “Eat, Drink, and Be Married”.
RSVP
If the venue or hosts need a headcount, make sure to include RSVP information on the rehearsal dinner invitation. Whether by phone, text, or email don’t forget to include the name of the person who is handling RSVPs and a deadline to reply!
Maybe it’s just because I moved to California, but everywhere I look I see more and more inspiration for boho, or bohemian, themed weddings. It’s likely not just my West Coast location, since Pinterest and Instagram are also full of boho wedding ideas from all over the country. Couples are loving this trend because it has a casual, fun feel and you can really take it in any direction to make it your own.
Boho weddings have a laid back and whimsical elements, which in my opinion is how a wedding should feel! Celebrating your love with family and friends is the ultimate goal and there’s no reason it can’t have a more relaxed vibe. It can be done in any season and has a wide variety of color palette options. I’ve seen beautiful boho weddings using everything from blues and pinks to more muted, neutral colors.
Since invitations are the first impression of the wedding day, and set the tone for the entire event, every boho wedding needs a boho invitation! Here are some of my favorites –
Blue and Gold Foil
I love this blue and gold foil invitation for a boho beach wedding. The watercolor encompasses the laid back vibe and can be customized to fit your own wedding colors! The gold foil glams up the look a bit and there are several options for different foil colors, including rose gold. These would also make perfect destination wedding invitations for any wedding by or on the water!
Minimalist Modern Mix
Can you say that five times fast? The casual vibe of these “I’m not trying too hard, but I’m still a show stopper” invitations is truly perfect for what I envision as a modern boho wedding! A little bit a glam, a little bit of color, and a whole lotta white space. The rose gold invitation paired with the thermography printed, recycled kraft paper insert card and colored envelopes makes this simple design a statement piece.
Boho Blue Florals
I can’t talk about boho invitations without showing off a floral design. This suite has been one of my most popular in recent months and continues to hold strong. It really works for almost any season and has the fun, trendy vibe. Dress it up by adding foil or letterpress printing for the text!
Having a bohemian inspired wedding? I’d love to work with you! Order a free sample or fill out my questionnaire now – let’s get this party started! (Receive a credit for your sample on your full order total!)
