Invitation & Paper Styles

Writing Styles

Here are some terms you should become familiar with, of the different writing styles you can use for your invitations:

Blind Embossing: Neither stamped nor imprinted, the raised and embossed image is the same color as the paper it is printed on.

Calligraphy: A perfected art of handwriting using a calligraphy pen, which comes in many different styles. Calligraphy transforms ordinary writing into an artistic expression.

Embossing: The process of creating a three-dimensional image in paper, using a combination of heat and pressure.

Engraving: The letters appear slightly raised, while also indented on the opposite side of the paper.

Letterpress: Creates the effect that the letters and images are stamped into the paper, creating precise characters that are rich in color.

Offset Printing: A type of printing that is used everyday on letterhead, newspapers, brochures, etc. Offset printing is not always the best choice for invitations, but does work great for extremely textured papers.

Thermography: Ink and powder are fused together for a raised lettering effect that compares to engraving, however the letters appear shiny.

Paper Types

Here are some terms you should become familiar with, of the different types of paper you can use for your wedding invitations:

Glassine: Thin, waxy paper that has a shiny surface. Glassine is best used for envelopes.

Handmade Papers: Handmade papers are made from natural organic materials such as cotton, hemp, and plant fibers, creating a rough, uneven surface.

Industrial Papers: Made from newsprint or recycled fibers, industrial papers have a rugged surface.

Jacquard: Jacquard is screen-printed paper that has an illusion of layering, such as lace or crochet.

Linen Finish: Linen finished paper has a grainy surface, and is often a classic choice for wedding invitations.

Marbeled Paper: Decorative paper with swirls that resemble the surface of marble.

Matte: Matte paper has an opaque finish that is non-reflective.

Mylar: Simulated foil paper that has a shiny, metallic finish. Best used for envelopes and not for invitations.

Parchment: Translucent paper that is cloudy, yet has an airy effect.

Rice Paper: An incredibly thin paper that is both beautiful and elegant, rice paper is not actually made of rice. This is a nice, non-traditional option for wedding invitations.

Vellum: Made from a cotton blend, vellum has a translucent, frosted appearance and a smooth finish.

Contemporary Invitation Options

Wood: Invitations are made of high quality wood veneer, which is engraved with wedding details.

Tin Boxes: Traditional, square wedding invitations are presented in designer tin boxes. Most often, there is a diverse range of tin box patterns to choose from.

Butterfly Boxes: A softer and more feminine box option for wedding invitations, the butterfly box is a newer choice for the modern bride.

Books: In book form, the wedding invitation can either be simple and bound with hand-stitched borders, or tell the story of your journey together as a couple.

Scrolls: The traditional invitation of Indian kings, scrolls are guaranteed to be memorable announcements of your wedding.

DVD’s: A technologically savvy invitation option, these DVD’s are truly personalized. Couples often include photo slideshows, music and personal messages.