Envelopes are one of my FAVORITE paper goods! They can add so much to the experience of receiving your invite, not to mention build anticipation for your guest to open the envelope to see what’s inside. There are endless combinations and styles to choose from, but let me talk you through a few of the common ones.
Calligraphy
I rarely miss an opportunity to talk about having a calligraphed envelope for your wedding. When else do you have such an open opportunity to make an envelope look extra special?
Calligraphy is a beautiful and timeless option for your envelopes, but not the most inexpensive. Since there are a variety of calligraphy options, you can truly match the feel of your wedding to the style of calligraphy you would like to have on your envelope.
Since calligraphy is hand-done, it will take longer to have ready to send immediately. I’ll let you on a little trick: Take your Save the Date spreadsheet of addresses, add any additional guests and pass it on to your calligrapher as soon as possible. Once you have picked out your envelopes, order them and send them to your calligrapher. They can have them done right when your invites are getting printed or even earlier. This will keep your wedding timeline going smoothly and allow your calligrapher enough time to get them done with our adding rush fees—win, win!
To find my calligraphy styles and prices check here!
Printed Envelopes
Calligraphy may not fit your wedding vibe or even may not fit your budget. A beautiful and cost-effective option is having your address printed on the envelopes. You can also try printing the proper address and write the name in calligraphy to add a modern but elegant touch. These two combinations can create a more cost effective but equally stunning outcome that you’re looking for. This option is also a time saver if you are getting married in a shorter time period than typical or time is running low on when to get your invites out.
All the Details
Adding extra detail to your envelopes can be a fun way to make them more personal and infuse your style. Here are a few ideas on what to add:
Envelope liners: Once used to block the inside contents of an envelope, these additional pieces are a beautiful way to add color, texture, and elegance to your envelope and invite suites.
Wax Seals: These are fun additions to close ( or seal) your envelope with, but can be costly in the long run both in expense and the time the envelope will make it to your guest.
Decoration: This, in my opinion, is always a great option! From handpainted details like the envelope below to small printed flowers on the envelope flap, make your envelope your own! The options are endless.
As your stationer, I would love to walk you through the additions you can add to your envelopes without making costly mistakes such as wrong address formatting or other mailing faux pas.
Stamps
Stamps are the most important detail of your envelope! With out them they will not get very far to your guests. There are a variety of stamps from USPS that are perfect for any suite. If you are looking for vintage stamps, remember to make sure the total adds up to modern day postage price. I also suggest finding a beautiful theme ( such as botanicles or travel) or color combination ( like the pink and gold below) to make them pop off your envelope.
A few last items to considerations with envelopes are:
Shape: Anything outside a rectangle will cost more in postage.
Address: Whatever way you choose to address your envelope, make sure it is readable, in the correct area on the envelope, and you include a return address.
Thickness matters! Make sure you are aware of what you are putting in the envelope and that the envelope is the right material to hold it all.
Color: Don’t forget color is an option for your envelopes.
Have questions or concerns about envelopes? I would love to help you, just let me know your questions below!
