Anatomy of an Invitation for Every Style of Event

With its elegant Venetian script and formal wording, this engraved invitation plays by the rules -- except for the gold ink, which replaces classic black. Since the ceremony and reception are to occur in the same location, there's no separate reception card, and, as is most traditional, the inclusion of the address indicates guests should respond via their own stationery. Bifold invitation by Mrs. John L. Strong. Calligraphy by John DeCollibus.

Here, subtle color kicks classic up a notch. This all-text engraved invitation feels fresh and cool in a wash of robin's-egg blue, and the simple charcoal-gray typography carries through to the reception and reply cards for a refined and unified look. The modernized wording identifies both sets of parents hosting a somewhat less-formal event as they invite guests to share in their mutual joy. Dominique invitation by Haute; we lined the white envelopes by hand in two coordinating colors of crosshatched Cafe paper by Martha Stewart Crafts.

A little pink message on the envelope flap hints at the whimsy that lies within. The playful staggered type of the layout loosens things up a bit, as do the additional spots of pink. This couple extends the invitation together with their two families and provides a diminutive reception card perfectly sized for guests to tuck into a pocket or bag. Custom-designed letterpress suite by Cheree Berry Paper.

A destination wedding opens a world of inspirational possibilities. We looked to vintage travel ephemera such as maps, documents, tickets, and passports to create the palette and type of this custom letterpress suite by Paper+Cup Design. This document-style invitation features casual wording and is hand-stamped with the couple's name and the destination. A ticket serves as the save-the-date, and guests reply via a postcard stamped with the response date.

That it looks written by hand makes it personal; that it's printed via letterpress makes it special. If you possess a unique handwriting style, pen your own casual note, and then work directly with the printer for a truly one-of-a-kind message. This all-in-one format combines the invitation, reception details, and R.S.V.P. in a single piece. Asking guests to respond by phone is ultra informal, and signing with simply your first names works only if all of your guests know you well. Letterpress printing by LaRue and Company; vintage stamps from Champion Stamp.

A. Outer Envelope
This should be addressed to both members of a married couple on one line. Children older than 13 receive their own invitations.

B. Inner Envelope
The names of the recipients should be written on the front of the inner envelope. It is inserted, unsealed, with its addressed side facing the back of the outer envelope.

C. Invitation
It is placed inside the inner envelope with the print facing the back of the inner envelope. If you include a ceremony or reception card, it should be placed directly on top of the invitation.

D. Directions and Maps
Directions can be included, or sent separately once the guest has given notice he or she will attend.

E. Reply Card Envelope
The reply card is tucked under the flap of a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Postcards are an informal alternative.