Classic wedding invitations are just that classic. They are timeless and never go out of fashion. Their simplicity adds a touch of elegance to your big day without blowing your wedding budget.

The classic wedding invitation usually consists of a single sheet of plain white or cream card simply decorated. The card may be embossed, have silver or gold gilt edges or decorated with a simple patterned border. Normally the wedding invitation’s text is printed in simple black ink, sometimes embossed or printed with raised ink. Raised ink adds texture to the invite and creates a sumptuous feel.

Other options to decorate the card including raised or embossed gold or silver ink. Cream card compliments gold ink card whilst white card sits well with silver.

Before ordering remember to check out samples to ensure the wedding invites are produced to a high standard. The highest quality cards will be printed on board rather than card. However, heavy weight card makes a good substitute for those on a budget. Heavy weight card or board should always be used for embossing otherwise the desired outcome will not be achieved. Good quality card has a weight of around 250 to 300 GSM. Board normally weighs around 350 to 400 GSM.

Although not essential, I always recommend sending a reply card with your wedding invitations. Reply cards encourage your guests to respond and I also recommend putting a reply by date on your invites. Caterers, venues and other suppliers usually need to know at least two weeks in advance the exact number of guests. Give yourself plenty of time by choosing an early reply date so you can chase up any non-repliers before the two week cut-off date.

There are many good stationers out there, so it pays to shop around. Visit local wedding fayres, printers and wedding stationers. Also check out online stores, increasing numbers of both large and small stationers are choosing to promote their stationery online.