THE  INVITATION ENSEMBLE EXPLAINED

the    I N V I T A T I O N

The invitation is the most important part of the invitation ensemble and contains all the information your guests need to know so they can plan to attend your wedding.  Styles of invitations vary in style and formality.  Your invitation sets the mood of your wedding.  Luckily there is something for everyone from classic and elegant to fun and whimsical.

It is proper etiquette to include reception information if space allows and if your guests are invited to both the wedding and the reception.  Reception information can be added as a continuation of the wedding verse (add a blank line between if you choose) or you can add the information in the form of a corner copy.

Double envelopes are included with the majority of invitations.  Some casual and contemporary invitations may only have an outer envelope.  Be sure to read the description so you understand what is included with the invitation price.

           the O U T E R   E N V E L O P E *

The outer envelope is gummed and is used to mail your invitation and enclosure cards to your guests.  A return address can be added to the envelope flap if you choose.  This will ensure undeliverable invitations are returned to you for correction and re-mailing.  The typestyle and ink color can match the invitation and enclosure cards or they can be embossed.

                                          the   I N N E R   E N V E L O P E *

The inner envelope is not gummed and is used to contain your invitation and the enclosure cards after the outer envelope is opened and discarded.  A lining can be added if you choose.  They are available in many colors and can coordinate with your ink color.  Not every lining color is available with every invitation.  Be sure to see what color options are available.  Lined inner envelopes are the most economical way to dress up an invitation.

Order an additional 25 inner and outer envelopes to replace mistakes made during addressing

          the   T I S S U E

The tissue was necessary to prevent wet ink from smudging, but improved printing techniques have made them necessary for tradition purposes only. They are rarely included with orders today.


                           the   R E C E P T I O N   C A R D

The reception card is an enclosure card that contains all the information needed regarding your reception time and location.

    the   R E S P O N S E   C A R D

The response card is the enclosure card that your guests will return to inform you if they are able to attend and what entree they desire if a selection is necessary.  The respond card is always accompanied with an addressed return envelope.

                                                       the   M A P   C A R D

The map or direction card is an ideal way to provide directional information to your guests.  They can be printed with either a hand drawn map, a computer generated map, or written instructions.  A map on one side and written directions on the other is an option also.

                                                                                       the   P E W   C A R D

The  pew card or within the ribbon card is a small card about the size of a business card that is enclosed in the invitation of special guests who are to be seated in reserved pews.

             the   I N F O R M A L   N O T E

The informal note is printed with your name, monogram, or with a "Thank You" design on the front. The inside should be blank so you can write a personal note.  Your return address can be added to the envelope flap if you choose.

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