Incorporating Fabric
The above invitation incorporates fabric as a design and tactile element. The fabric is a handpainted silk accented with beautiful silver and blue beading. Since opening and reading an invitation is a tactile experience, its "feel" plays a major role in the overall perception. Adding fabric, whether satin, silk, or cotton, can heighten interest as well as add an element of the "unexpected". The elegant text and formal wording send a visual message to guests that the event will be formal. This invitation also has multiple layers of thick paper stock, transforming a simple invitation into a multi-dimensional work of art.

Creative "Folds"
Designing invitations with creative "folds" can be a wonderful expression of tradition or individuality. Folds can be whimsical, such as an origami invitation, or formal, such as an invitation with an insert inside its fold. The above invitation is a great example incorporating a whimsy design element into a traditional invitation. This invitation opens up to display hand-made gold flower accented paper. The text mixes contemporary elements with beautiful cursive letters. The invitation comes tied with a satin ribbon (adding another tactile element) and everything is created on a thick paper stock.

Shape
Few couples think about the shape of their invitations. Shape can be a wonderful design element, adding strong character to the overall look. Although rectangular and square shapes are the most commonly used, round, oval, and even triangular shapes can be easily incorporated. Some designers may include a multitude of shapes within one invitation. The above invitation is square with formal text. Its white on white design also gives it a clean and crisp look... much like a starched tuxedo shirt or table linen. The wide satin ribbon is the most important modern design element, bringing this traditional square invitation into the 21st century.

Paper
The quality and texture of the paper used in the invitation can be a significant visual and tactile element as well. Talk with your designer or retailer to see which paper style best reflects the "look" you're intending.

Doing It Yourself vs. Hiring A Professional
It is no secret that invitation expenses can be significant. Brides have many alternatives -- from hiring a professional to design and create the invitations, choosing designs from a catalog, to printing invitations themselves. Your decision should reflect the amount of time you have to dedicate to this project, balanced against your budget. Consider how important the invitations are to you and what portion of the budget you are willing to dedicate to them Some brides see invitations as an item which will eventually be discarded by the receiver, others see it as one of the most important first impressions the bride can make regarding her wedding.