When you consider all the possible resources for wedding invitations and accessories, your options are virtually unlimited. So how do you select the option, or combination of options that are best for you? I recommend the following approach: Start by taking a good look at your personal situation and jot down your answers to these key questions about invitations.
- What products am I looking to purchase? – Assess what is needed, and in what quantities.
- What can I do myself, and what do I want or need to delegate? – Consider the level of service you desire from the supplier: little (basic) or no assistance, full-service assistance (including addressing and mailing of invitations or assembly of favors), or something in between.
- How much can I afford to spend? – What is the budget? More importantly, have you done preliminary shopping or research in order to determine a realistic budget figure?
- Is it important to me that these items ‘make a statement’? – Do you drool over Vera Wang invitations? (Not to mention that they’re the perfect compliment to your Vera Wang gown!) Perhaps Crane’s is your stationary of choice. If so, invitations and other personalized items will be high on your priority list. Be sure to budget accordingly for more sophisticated and higher quality products. You may also further consider this point by asking yourself: Is it important to me that all these items match impeccably?
- How much time do I have for ordering, shipping, assembling, etc.? – When is everything needed? What options are available (rush service, overnight shipping, etc.) and at what cost?
Now, evaluate your answers with regard to the following statements and it could help answer more questions about invitations:
- “I prefer to keep expenses for invitations and accessories to a minimum, and I’m able to manage the extra time and effort to shop around for the lowest possible prices.” Or, “My friends call me Martha Stewart.”
- “I have a vision of what I want, but I’m running out of time and money; I could use some help finding something which reflects our personal style (colors, theme, etc.) without blowing our budget.” Or, “We want something nice, and just want to address them and get them out as quickly as possible.”
- ”We want to “wow” our guests with every little detail; from beginning to end, everything has got to be top-notch.” Or, “I’m so busy I can’t even think about it.”
If you selected the first bullet point, you will likely be very comfortable with shopping online and/or at retailers that offer do-it-yourself products. From invitations to aisle runners, you can find all the basics at an affordable price. You will be able to make the desicion for yourself and answer your own questions about invitations. Just be careful not to take on too many projects at a time, and allow extra time for correcting mistakes.
There are hundreds upon hundreds of invitation and accessory websites online. Experienced online shoppers are familiar with the time investment that is often required: searching through dozens of sites to find the items you like, reading the fine print regarding add-on charges, understanding the ordering instructions, and comparing products and prices. Online shopping is an ideal option for those who have the time or you truly enjoy it. Online shopping also offers a convenience factor – the ability to shop for anything at anytime – which is invaluable for those with hectic and harried schedules. On the other hand, if you do not enjoy this type of shopping experience, or find it frustrating, you should certainly look for an established – reputable and knowledgeable – retailer.
If you identify more with the second statement, you are at a midpoint and need to balance your budget as well as time. Purchasing from a retailer may seem like a splurge, but you will save time and avoid costly mistakes. Reserve online bargain shopping for items that you can live without (guest book, aisle runner or printed ribbon) since they may arrive and not meet your expectations.
One of the greatest benefits of a retail store is that it’s a more sensory and, gratifying experience: you can see the products colors, feel the texture and weight, taste the chocolate, smell the candles, and so on. This is especially helpful if you want to see how different things work together or how well colors match. In addition, a knowledgeable sales person is usually able to answer your questions and provide specific information that will help you compare products and pricing more accurately. This is a good option for anyone who desires a higher level of personalized service; you have the opportunity to communicate your ideas and requirements to the retailer who can in turn provide assistance and guidance with the product selection and ordering process.
For those of you who selected the last statement, you will surely want to work closely with a consultant or designer who understands your event in its totality. Save-the-dates, invitations, thank you cards, escort cards, programs and menu cards are all likely to be part of your order. Budget extra time and money for assembly and calligraphy; in some cases special packaging and extra postage may be necessary.
Full-service assistance can be taken to another level by working with a Consultant or Designer. Invitation Designers (a graphic artist specializing in invitations) create one-of-a-kind, custom made invitations and coordinating accessories that are typically assembled by the designer (hand-made). Custom invitations are available through Consultants and Retailers, and feature product lines whose papers, colors and font combinations are completely customizable, and may also be hand assembled, albeit by the manufacturers. Designers, Retailers and Consultants can handle the majority of the work involved: selecting papers and fonts, suggesting wording, proofing text and layout, and coordinating assembly, addressing and mailing of the items. Another benefit of working with a full-service Consultant, Retailer or Designer: shop at home service!
Ready, set, go shopping!