Wedding invitations don't start or end simply with the actual invitation. A properly prepared wedding invitation has many key elements to it including card stock, ink color, formality, and last but not least, two envelopes. Choosing the right envelopes to suit your invitations is very important and should not be overlooked.
The wedding invitation envelopes are going to be the absolute first thing prospective guests see when they receive your wedding invitations in the mail. For that reason, there are a few things you should be made aware of and consider before choosing your envelopes. First, you should choose envelopes that are tasteful and possibly reflect the color or theme of the wedding. Since many envelopes come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and designs, it's important to consider the invitation as a whole as well, not simply trying to isolate each aspect and designing it piece by piece.
There are nearly an endless amount of choices when it comes to wedding invitations and their envelope counterparts. Most invitations are square or rectangular but one of the styles that are becoming very popular is known as a pochette. A pochette has a square shape and folding tabs on each side. These tabs fold in to create the envelope. Since there are so many colors to choose from as well, consider matching the envelope to the bouquet color of your wedding. Another idea is to pick a color that reflects the time or the theme of the wedding. For instance, if your wedding were going to take place on Valentine's Day, you may consider choosing a red or pink envelope for your invitations. If you are going for traditional appeal, consider an envelope made of parchment paper. Parchment often features a deckled look around the edges which is something that resembles a torn edge. It helps your invitation appear to be handmade.
When addressing your wedding invitations, etiquette almost demands that they are hand addressed. While printed address labels are becoming popular as well as having printing companies print them on the envelopes for you, those who are perfectionists about proper etiquette will say that hand addressing them will always be the best thing to do. Most envelopes are part of a package deal put together by printers but many offer upgrades to the package as well. You may feel that you'd like some form of lining in your envelopes for instance. Most printers are willing to work with you to create the perfect package but be forewarned that changes usually equate to additional charges.