Your invitations are the first statement you make about your big event. The invitations must communicate a lot of different information, and at the same time, should give guests an idea about your style and a hint about the level of formality at your wedding. The language tone and style as well as the font style and paper color all convey these little hints to your guests.

Some all-in-one wedding planners can help ease the stress related to your invitations to allow you to spend more time on other things. Companies such as myshadi.com provide complete and full service not only with wedding invitations but also with favor boxes and more. Myshadi.com will help you pick out customized invitations, provide samples, and do the printing.

Below are some items to think about as you work on your wedding invitations:

STYLE 

What style do you like or which do you want to convey? - Traditional - Modern - A blend of traditional and modern - Casual and funky - Handmade-style paper

FONT STYLE 

- Traditional 

- Engraving 

- Calligraphy 

- Modern type

ENVELOPE SIZE 

When thinking about envelopes be sure to keep in mind the differences in postage costs. 

- Plain envelope size 

- Traditional folded 

- Square

LANGUAGE 

Different families have different traditions so discuss the level of formality you wish to convey. Also consider who will host which events. Below is a list of common hosts: - Grandparents - Bride's parents - Groom's parents - Both sets of parents - Siblings

INFORMATION TO INCLUDE 

Information should be clear and easy for guests to understand. - Relevant names: Bride, Groom, Bride's parents, and Groom's parents (often Grandparents are also listed) - Wedding date and time - Wedding venue name and address - Reception venue name and address - Hosts contact address

SPECIAL REQUESTS/INSTRUCTIONS 

Given that many people now travel a distance to unknown places for wedding, it is also helpful to include information to assist out of town guests. - Gift registry information - Directions to the venue(s) - Reference to your wedding webpage - RSVP card and addressed return envelope

Choosing invitations is just one step along the way. Next, you will want to have the invitations printed, mailed, and rsvp cards returned. This in and of itself is a process. Here are some tips to help you during the entire process, start to finish.

1. If you're trying to save, keep it simple. Top-of-the-line papers, colored ink, and custom designing will increase the price. Decorative envelope linings and multiple enclosures will also cost extra. Bulky or oversize styles are also important to consider.

2. Be creative and express yourself. Has a poem or quote always had special meaning for you? Why not use it in your invitation wording? Whether it is a spiritual passage, a proverb or saying that means something to you, or a quote from a significant figure in your life, chances are the words will also touch your guests.

3. Cards requiring physical folds, enclosures or wrap-around mean extra handling work for you and your family!

4. Instead of building map cards or writing detailed driving directions, set up a wedding webpage that includes more detailed information such as driving directions and special instructions.

5. Proofread, proofread, proofread! This is very important, so make sure you and at least three others do a careful review checking for the date and venue information.

6. Order extra invitations. It leaves room for addressing errors. And don't forget to keep a few extra invites for yourself as a keepsake.

7. Get an invitation weighed at your post office to insure proper postage. If you have a large number of invitations, it may even be possible to get a bulk rate deal. Speak to postal service to find out.

8. Invitations should be sent at a minimum of two months before your wedding. RSVP dates should be set to allow you enough time to collect them and relay this information to your vendors.

In the end, just remember that the invitation is both an informational tool and a way to express your style. Consider using an efficient, full-service company such as myshadi.com to help you manage the entire process. Myshadi.com can help ease your stress and leave you with time to concentrate on more important things.