Handmade Wedding Invitations

Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   Would you buy good quality handmade wedding invitations for your wedding?
   I am currently interested in these invites I saw online. They are individyally handmade and then printed with buyers wording of choice. Would you have those for ur wedding? They are around for invite and envelope with printing.

   • ANSWER:
     I would rather hand make my own invitations, and not spend any money. since I work at a paper company and don’t even have to buy the paper. is a little pricey unless you are having a very small wedding, remember, they are just going to be thrown out.

2. QUESTION:
   What are some good ideas for handmade wedding invitations?
   Wedding favors, bouquet arrangements, and wedding decorations also.
   The theme is black, white, and red.

   • ANSWER:
     Blank card stock with black border and black print. Your initials together in a red monogram at the top.

     Bouquets: White flowers with black ribbon. For the bride, white and/or flowers with red ribbon.

     Decorations: Black and white theme with a pop of red on each table. Black and white photos of the couple framed in black frames sitting around the centerpieces.

     Favors: heart shaped cookie cutter in red bag

3. QUESTION:
   Where can i buy contemporary handmade wedding invitations in the UK?
   Its is for my sister who is very modern. She would like: modern contemporary with a red and white theme. Not OTT, simple, not too big, good quality

   • ANSWER:
     Take a blank paper. Make slips of every country name in U.K. after cutting paper.
     Fold it and take a box.. Through all slips in that box.
     Mix them properly. After mixing choose one slip and you may find One country name from all of them for contemporary handmade wedding. Go in that country and buy it.
     Why I always help without any profile.
     Good Luck

4. QUESTION:
   Modern and handmade wedding invitations.?
   Is anyone know where I can find modern and handmade wedding invitations. Most of them look very traditional.

   • ANSWER:
     Take a look at http://www.preciousinvitations.com for handmade wedding invitations.

5. QUESTION:
   I need reasonably priced handmade invitations?
   Can anyone suggest any UK websites which supply handmade wedding invitations that are reasonably priced?

   I’m running low on budget and so I don’t want to spend much, but I also don’t want them to look cheap and tacky (I’m not that good at craft so doing them myself is out of the question!). I’ve tried searching on the web, but the sites I have found are quite expensive.

   Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

   Many thanks

   Dona xx

   • ANSWER:
     Hi Donna,

     Suggest you take a look at http://www.our-wedding-essentials.co.uk You will find a good selection of handmade wedding invitations which can be colour co-ordinated to your wedding theme.

     There are also package discounts available.

     Good luck with your wedding preparations.

     Wedding Planner

6. QUESTION:
   Any inspiration or advice for handmade wedding invitations?
   I am getting married in June and am thinking of making my own wedding invitations. I would like to make them myself using paper, glue, watercolor, ribbons, etc. — not a pre-made print-at-home kit. I would probably print the invitation text on vellum and then affix it somehow to the decorated paper. I haven’t done a lot of scrapbooking or paper crafting before, so I would appreciate any advice you have for me.

   Do you know of any websites that tell one how to do this?
   Do you have links to any pictures that could inspire me?
   Have you done this before? Do you have any good advice?

   Thanks for your help!

   • ANSWER:
     There are tons of ideas out there! First start looking at different invitations and get an idea of what you like. Then you can buy the paper and supplies, and lastly lay it all out. A website which I use frequently and recommend often is paper-source.com.
     Go to how to > videos > and watch their videos on
     petal invitation, pocket folder invitation, and program kits just to get ideas.
     Before you decide on your final measurements and materials, be sure to do a thorough test run. You may find that vellum doesnt work well for your printer, and card stock does, or vice versa. Printing is where most problems arise, so sort this out first.
     Expect these to take a great deal of your time to complete- they will! But if you enjoy it and have patience, they will be beautiful.
     Ill attach a pic of our invitations. We got a lot of compliments on them. I used Japanese washi paper and gold cords to tie the front, to incorporate my husband’s culture. Inside, I designed and printed the invitation, map, and RSVP card.
     Good luck and have fun with your invitations!

     

     

7. QUESTION:
   Help finding envelopes for handmade wedding invitations???
   O.K. I need 100 Burgundy size A6 (4 3/4″ x 6 1/2″) invitation envelopes. I don’t need lined envelopes or double envelopes, just nicely weighted, solid burgundy. I have been scouring through google and I’ve found every other color except friggin burgundy. I’ve searched wine colored and claret too. Still no luck. Please HELP!!!

   • ANSWER:
     If all else fails and you make your own envelopes..

     http://paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/40713000?cm_sp=cus_rec-_-null-_-null

8. QUESTION:
   Is there a machine I can buy where I can make homemade letterpress wedding invitations?
   The art store sells so many types of machines and I was hoping there was a machine I could buy where I can make homemade letterpress wedding invitations? I’ve seen some beautiful wedding invitations made using a letterpress machine. I can’t afford to go out and have my wedding invations made by someone else. I’m a crafty person so I want to make handmade invitations with my fiancé. Please help me out?

   • ANSWER:
     There are machines that you can buy at art and craft stores like the one from LifeStyle Crafts. I believe its called the Epic 6. I must say though these machines produce pretty poor results. They’re mostly plastic and just won’t have the power to make really any impression in the paper. They start around 0-0 for just the machine but then you’ll have to buy plates for it to print with which are about another -. When you add in paper costs, ink, and misc supplies of easily 0 – 0 its really not worth it to pay almost 0 for the results you’ll be getting. I would strongly recommend working with someone who does real letterpress work on real industrial letterpress machines. You can get luxury quality letterpress with no hassles for the same amount or cheaper than diy. Check out www.smittenowl.com. They do great work, and will work completely custom with you. You could just get the invitations done letterpress and then print response cards digitally yourself and assemble everything yourself to keep prices down.

9. QUESTION:
   i want a name for a new handmade wedding stationary business any ideas please !?
   handmade invitations, guest books, wedding albums, table plans and more all handmade to co -ordinate with a choosen theme.

   • ANSWER:
     Personal Touch Event Stationary
     This will allow you to expand beyond weddings.

10. QUESTION:
    Best way to display my handmade invitations?
    I have a small wedding invitation business and I am looking for something that will allow me to display my wedding invitations that I can bring along with me when I meet clients. I am fine with using a binder, but I would like something a little more professional looking for the inside instead of the plastic sheet protector pages. Is there anywhere to buy something like this?

    Thanks in advance!

    • ANSWER:

11. QUESTION:
    Wedding invitations?
    Could anybody recommend a website where we could find jewelled, handmade wedding invitations for fast delivery – as in less than a week!

    Thanks
    I really appreciate all of your replies. One of our friends is about to be deployed and sprung a surprise proposal on his girlfriend. We have booked an Officiant, a venue, a cake, caterers and ordered favours and a dress ALL TODAY! and thanks to you Guys she’s just choosing some rush order invitations. I need to lie down! Thanks again ladies.

    • ANSWER:
      You can always just make them yourself. You can buy the blank invitations at Michael’s or any craft Store or even Target sells them now. They come completely blank or with borders, designs, etc. All you do is put them in your printer and print whatever you want them to say. You can buy the jewels, ribbon etc at Michaels too. I believe they even sell kits that come with everything. Good luck!

12. QUESTION:
    Where is the best place to get good quality wedding invitations at a reasonable cost?
    We are getting married next may and we are sourcing everything and trying to get a good idea of costs. Is there somebody who knows a good place to get wedding invitations. We are not exactly fussy on design at this stage but I think we are interested in handmade things and my partner quite likes the scroll style, Printer don paper is not an option. Please if anyone could help me

    • ANSWER:
      We ordered ours on 123Print.com and they came out beautiful. They have many different types to choose from. For 100 including the envelopes and the RSVP cards, it was less than 0 w/ shipping. Look out for their promo codes. They also help you save.

      Another site that’s reliable is VistaPrint.com. We used this site for the save the date post cards.

      Good luck. I hope I helped.

13. QUESTION:
    Where can I buy handmade or natural-looking paper in central TN? I want to use it to make wedding invitations.?

    • ANSWER:
      Maybe you can consider buying some ready-made blank cards.

      http://www.sophiaethan.com/Greeting-Cards/Note-Cards-Blank-Cards

14. QUESTION:
    Where can i find cheap handmade wedding goods?
    I have started a wedding accessories website www.best4weddings.co.uk and am struggling to find good unusual products that have been hand crafted and are at an affordable price. I need tiaras, ring cushions, favours, invitations etc Wholesalers seem to sell the same goods to everyone. Any ideas?

    • ANSWER:
      Wal-Mart.

15. QUESTION:
    wedding invitations and correct layout?
    so the wedding invitations are handmade from scratch.

    is it important to have “reception to follow at blah blah blah” written on a separate piece of paper? or would it be weird to have this on a separate piece of paper? is it ok to include it on the invite?

    if you have it on the invite itself and you don’t have reply cards should you have it like this

    to blah and blah,
    please join in the celebration of blah blah blah on their special day
    on the 12 of 10, 2003
    at blah blah church

    reception to follow at blah golf club

    please RSVP by blah date.
    ph: 9476-7876
    email: fgjkdf@yahoo.com.au
    looking forward to hearing from you.

    OR

    to blah and blah,
    please join in the celebration of blah blah blah on their special day
    on the 12 of 10, 2003
    at blah blah church

    please RSVP by blah date.
    ph: 9476-7876
    email: fgjkdf@yahoo.com.au
    looking forward to hearing from you.

    reception to follow at blah golf club

    Any other tips on how things are to be correctly worded?

    • ANSWER:
      Checked Emily Post for this one: Below is an example.

      Beth Elizabeth Holland and Christopher Allen Smith
      invite you to attend (or request the honour of your presence at their marriage) ***everything should
      their marriage be centered
      on Saturday, October the twenty-first
      at three-thirty
      The Hopewell Church or _____
      37 Oak Avenue
      Richmond, Virginia 23223
      A reception on the grounds or at______
      address of reception if other than the church
      will follow the ceremony
      R.S.V.P.
      Ms. Beth Holland (888)888-3777
      87 Grace Street
      Richmond, Virginia 23223

      Do not put anything like looking forward to hearing from you, etc. as this might be taken as you saying, I want to hear from you or you are obligated to come, maybe not, but have never seen this used on a wedding invite.

      Of course at the time this was written, emails were not the in thing, however, my personal opinion is that requesting emails is not suitable as many, many people, especially elderly or me just someone who is old-fashioned enough to think a reply should be a phone call or a reply in writing. Hope this gives you an idea. I would, however, put a telephone number althought Miss Emily does not list this.
      But, times they are a changin’ The only other thing would be if your or both sets of parents are inviting, then it would be worded differently. Good luck and many good wishes!!!!!!

16. QUESTION:
    How much to charge for handmade invitations?
    A friend of a friend is getting married next year, and has asked me to make handmade invitations for their wedding. I’ve never gone through the wedding process, so I don’t know how much typical invites and reply cards cost. They would probably cost me about 75 cents to make per card, and maybe 10 – 15 min per card. So material cost for, say, 50 cards would be about and maybe 10 hours all together.

    How much should I charge? Keep in mind that I don’t personally know these people, and I am currently in graduate school – my time can be precious! Thanks for any info.

    • ANSWER:
      Go online and look up a few companies that do hand-made invites… give them a call, tell them what your friends of the friends are looking for (pretend YOU’RE the one looking for them) and see how much THEY charge.

      Also, I’ve sold things that I’ve made…ALWAYS allow room for extra money for materials…and remember that your time is VALUABLE! Don’t under charge.

17. QUESTION:
    Are gift cards appropriate wedding gifts?
    I recently received a unique looking handmade wedding invitation from my grandpa’s niece whom I haven’t seen and heard from since I was 5 years old. We’re both in our late 20s and the same age but I’m older than her by 6 months. Since I don’t know her very well because we both live in different states, she lives in California and I live in New Jersey, do you think a gift card like Olive Garden,Walmart,Target,etc would be an appropriate wedding gift? I don’t feel comfortable giving cash because it’s easy to blow it off on useless things. What do you think?
    I’m not sure where and if she registered anywhere because it wasn’t included in her wedding invitation. She and her fiance have been together for 12 years and have a 9 year old daughter together. The gift cards were just an idea I came up with and I plan on spending -0 on it.

    • ANSWER:
      I’m sure there are going to be answers from people who think that gift cards are not “personal” and therefore inappropriate gifts for weddings (or other occasions for that matter), but I have a different opinion. When I got married, I received actual “gifts” from everyone and many of them have gone unused to this day. I personally would LOVE to get gift cards so I could use them to furnish my house or buy things that matched my tastes and needs instead of someone else’s. I don’t think gift cards are any less personal or that the person giving them didn’t want to take the time to go shopping – I feel as if they are being more generous in letting me pick out what I need.

      And it depends on the person getting married, too – if they are older and already have a house, then perhaps gift cards to restaurants or something else would be appropriate. If they are younger and have never had a house, then gift cards to home stores would be better used as they will probably need more household items.

18. QUESTION:
    Are the colors in your wedding invitations supposed to be the same as your wedding colors?
    I wanted to make my own invitations…is that tacky? Money isn’t the issue I just though it would be something fun that my fiance and I could do together. And it would add a personal touch to the whole invitation process. How much more personal can you get then handmade??

    Anyway I was thinking that it would be cool to make all the invitations a little bit different (ie: paper color, and color of ribbon). But I’m not sure if I’m supposed to use my wedding colors to let guests know what to expect.

    I don’t really know the etiquette on invitations. I heard it’s not something you want to skimp on cuz it sets the tone of the wedding for your guests. Should I just buy invitations and make handmade “save the date cards” instead (since they are less formal)?

    • ANSWER:
      i don’t think it is tacky i think it would be fun and individual!! i am going to make my own most likely, just because i think it would be cool. I think that making all of the invites different would be really neat!!! i really love that idea! I don’t think that you really have to use your wedding colors, i think that is traditional, but hey start your own tradition!!! I really like this idea and if you think that it is a reflection of who you and your guy are then go for it babe!! don’t let “what is right” get in the way of your creativity. Congrats!!! have fun making those invites!

19. QUESTION:
    Wedding Invitations?
    I am just looking for some advice? I am thinking of sending save the date Cards for my Wedding since it falls on a 3 Day weekend. What type of Save the Date Cards would you consider better, regular invitation paper, or Handmade paper which is the one with the torn look around it. Just wondering.

    • ANSWER:
      I like the look of the handmade paper…..so pretty and less likely for the receiver to forget! Good Luck!

20. QUESTION:
    Where can I buy Handmade paper in San Diego?
    I am looking to make my own wedding invitations, and would like to use handmade paper. I don’t want to spend much money, and would just like basic cream, so would ideally like to buy large sheets in bulk. Any ideas anyone? I live close to the downtown and mission valley area.

    • ANSWER:

      http://www.greenfieldpaper.com/

      http://blog.discoversd.com/san-diego-shopping-blog/papyrus-the-paper-palace.html

21. QUESTION:
    What is an appropriate font for a casual wedding invitation?
    The inviations are going to be handmade and represent the casaul aspect of our outdoor park wedding.

    • ANSWER:
      Anything you think is nice would be appropriate. Do a test print-out to make sure it is clearly readable.

      I would not go with something as casual as Comic MS. Garamond is a nice, clear, font.

      Good luck! Congratuations!

22. QUESTION:
    Is this tacky a thing to do for my wedding?
    We’re in a slight time crunch when it comes to my wedding. We’re only had since Jan to plan for May and things just keep getting closer quicker.

    Everyone knows when we’re getting married and that it’s going to be a destination wedding. We also know that many people we’ve invited are not going to be able to make it.

    That being said, in order to help out the procrastinators that haven’t booked their hotels and flights , we want to give 6-8 weeks on the invitations, and give ourselves enough time to get back the response cards.

    That makes it at the time we’ll be having my bridal shower…

    so my question

    would it be in bad taste to hand deliver the wedding invitations to my guests at my shower? I just want to make sure they reach everyone in enough time for them to get their plans organized, and don’t want to risk stuff like bad weather, lost mail, wrong box, etc from delaying them in getting their invites.

    There’s a possibility that we’re going to be getting handmade custom invitations done, so that’s why I’m asking. The woman is going to ‘rush’ our order, but I’m still just worried about the time crunch.

    It’s not like i’m expecting them to rip open the envelope and hand me back the response card while i’m standing in front of them…

    but I was just wondering how people feel about it?

    • ANSWER:
      I wouldn’t hand them out at the shower. Hand delivering invitations isn’t such a big deal- but I don’t think the shower is the place to do it.

      It’s normal to send invites 6-8 weeks prior to a wedding. Since it’s a destination wedding, you won’t have many guests- just close friends and family. Most of those will tell you they are coming well ahead of time.

23. QUESTION:
    What’s your opinion on these invitations?
    I am going for a lavender theme (not sure of my second color yet).

    http://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/product/765/signature_white_wedding_invitations_meadow_flourish.html

    http://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/product/1144/signature_white_wedding_invitations_filigree_pattern.html

    http://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/product/1451/signature_white_wedding_invitations_vintage_damask.html

    http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28631388&ref=sr_list_18&&ga_search_query=lavender+wedding+invitations&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&order=date_desc&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

    http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=14292731&ref=sr_list_2&&ga_search_query=lavender+wedding+invitations&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=3&order=date_desc&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

    Any one know of any other sites of where I can get some?
    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      First one is very pretty. I like the second one better. Third one looks more like a save-the-date because of it’s shape. I love the fourth one, if it goes with your other themes. The fifth one isn’t my favorite, but I like it too.

      Honestly, I’d like any of them. I think that the fourth one is my favorite because it’s interesting and unique. The second one is my next favorite.

      Great choices! You have amazing taste! I wish I had seen this before I bought my invitations…..one of my colors is lavender too!

24. QUESTION:
    Classy but inexpensive fall wedding.?
    I plan on having a fall wedding on September 28th.
    I was wondering if any of you had any ideas on inexpensive ideas.
    Here is the kind of thing I like;

    http://pictures.augustow.pl/view.php?q=Fall%20Flowers%20Pictures&url=http://i.ivillage.com/Weddings/slideshows/seasonflower_Trend_AP07/Mango_Mini_Calla_325.jpg

    http://www.etsy.com/listing/60100862/leaf-it-up-to-me-hand-painted-leaf?ref=sr_gallery_11&ga_search_query=fall+autumn+wedding+invitations&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=2&order=&includes%5B0%5D=tags&includes%5B1%5D=title&filter%5B0%5D=handmade

    But as you can see, the invitations alone are five dollars each, so to all the brides to be, wives, women, anything?? help??

    • ANSWER:
      The invitations you linked to would be so easy to make yourself!
      Print out a maple leaf or any leaf of your choice from the internet, cut it out, and use it as a stencil. Paint some construction paper with swirling oranges, reds, yellows and browns. Using the stencil (in different sizes) cut the leaves out and hole punch them to attach to invites. Paint + construction paper should be less than , so you’re already saving a bunch of money!
      Go to a nearby Kinko’s or other printshop to make copies of your invites and glue them onto a nice background .. maybe in a brown, red or deep orange.

      Instead of rose petals down the aisle, how about dropping a bunch of pretty fall leaves?

      Wear some feathers (you can make a hairpiece with a fall-colored flower and some feathers yourself.. don’t drop a hundred bucks on one!) and stick with nature themes. Fall leaves on the tables, votive candles and simple decor.

      Good luck, budget is the way to go !

25. QUESTION:
    How to set up an appealing display booth?
    In a few months I will be part of a wedding expo which I’m getting nervous about. I am confident in my product, but I’m worried about how I should set up my display booth, I don’t want it too look tacky. This is my first show.

    The size of the booth is 10x10x10 with the back wall being 8 feet tall.

    80% of my business is geared towards handmade wedding invitations, place cards, tags, menus, and all the other wedding stationery. 15% is accessories: barefoot sandals, hair accessories, bouquet pins. 5% is bridal survival kits and honeymoon survival kits.

    I would assume that I would set things up in 3 different stations, but I’m not certain.

    Thanks in advance.

    ~~

    • ANSWER:

26. QUESTION:
    What can I call my business?
    I want to start my own business making handmade cards and wedding invitations. I need a name for the business! Any creative ideas?

    • ANSWER:
      Miss Magorium’s Emporium of Magical Handmade Cards
      Vandelay Industry Handmades
      Pinky’s Pink Pooch Cards
      Great Minds Designs

27. QUESTION:
    wedding stationary?
    I roduce cards on a small scale and have a few regular customers but I want to expand ino wedding stationary I would like to know whether one, if anyone would buy reasonably priced handmade invitations? and what is reasonable? and two anyone who has dne this and succeeded if so have they any tips? thank you

    • ANSWER:
      Think this is your first posting but I have replied to your second one already. I honestly don’t mean to be rude but think it is better you are told before you decide being a retailer of stationery your spelling and English would require to be brought up to scratch. I think you honestly don’t know otherwise you would not have posted the questions in such a manner that all would pick up. There are no doubt errors in what I am replying to you but I am not intending going in to the stationery business!!! It would be an immediate turn off. I was at a Wedding Fayre yesterday and someone was self employed doing invitations, tabs, thank you cards etc and favours. Most of her invitations were pretty large with various flowers, jewels, ribbon etc on the front. I asked her the price of invitations (also said she could make as my daughter wanted) and she said including the envelope and all printing they were £1 each. I though for hand made invitations this was excellent. it would be interesting to see what you think of that price? I certainly would have paid quite a bit more.

28. QUESTION:
    Fishing theme wedding…
    My fiance and I are very outdoorsy and absolutely LOVE to fish, so it seemed only right to have a fishing themed wedding (entitled “Hooked On Love” or “Catch Of A Lifetime”….). Before you start saying “Oh my goodness… how stupid”, its going to be nice. Our color scheme is black and white with an accent color of Mossy Oak Obsession…. its just an accent!!! Only here and there in small amounts…..

    Though now I’m having some issues…… I began to design my invitations (they’re going to be handmade… I’m a very DIY bride) and I need some feedback. I was working on a way of incorporating a fish into our cover, but wasn’t sure exactly how to go about it. So here’s what I came up with:

    Cover: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/wedding invitations/invitecover.jpg

    Inside: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/wedding invitations/inside.jpg

    Save the Date: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/wedding invitations/savethedate.jpg

    Response: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/wedding invitations/response.jpg

    My mom mentioned that she wasn’t too sure about the fish, but I actually really like it. Let me know what you think… any changes? Any kudos?? We want it to be all unique……..

    PS: There’s no use in being negative and saying that I should change my theme because that’s just rude and its not going to happen anyways!
    Lets try this again…….

    Cover: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/invitecover.jpg

    Inside: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/inside.jpg

    Save the Date: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/savethedate.jpg

    Response: http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b306/boartsm/response.jpg

    Keep your fingers crossed that these work…….. ergh, internet.

    • ANSWER:
      It could have been a silly theme, but you totally turned into something creative, fun, and something that describes the two of you as a couple – good for you! I love all of the invitations and what not, keep up the good work!

29. QUESTION:
    Wholesale pricing for my handmade cards…?
    I’m a stay at home mom, and make extra cash making handmade cards. I usually charge .00 per card, or .00 for a pack of 6 (that’s .00 each). Lately, I have been getting a lot of inquires about making baby shower invitations or wedding invitations – anywhere from 50-100 invitations. Just wondering what would be a good ball park price I can base my cards on. Any Suggustions?

    • ANSWER:
      Im really not sure, if I were you, I would look at other handmade stationary and see what they charge. Look up custom shower invites or handmade wedding stationary. Honestly, I know that TONS of brides spend way more than per invitation! So, you’re already a good deal!

30. QUESTION:
    I’m a graphic designer who needs help on sourcing materials, finding a company to print my work etc.?
    Hey Guys,
    I am a newbie graphic designer, i can do the whole art thing perfectly but my problem is whats the next step after designing on the computer?? i want to set up my own little store from home. printing my designs on to little cards, bookmarks and postcards etc but where do i buy this paper, can i do it from home or is there a company out there that prints good quality at a cheap price? i want to also do handmade cards, wedding invitations but again where do i even begin to source materials???? these are the vital steps that they don’t tell you in college i often hear of people getting materials from China? i’m very interested, and would love some guidance Please!!!

    • ANSWER:
      I can help you out with that. I started out the same way. Have a look at my site (listed below) and contact me and I can get you set up selling print. I can also answer questions and help you out with any printability issues that may come up in your designs.

31. QUESTION:
    Do I have to send an invitation to people who are just now sending me their address?
    Okay, so my wedding is in two weeks. I sent out invitations several weeks ago. Before sending invitations, I emailed and contacted my friends and family asking for their address. Many people responded. I sent out almost 200 invitations. Now, only weeks before the wedding people are sending me their addresses or the address of grown daughters or sons. I handmade my invitations and at this point for me to send more, I will have to purchase more materials and make more invitations. What should I do? I gave people literally months to provide me with current information.

    • ANSWER:
      If they are people you really want at your wedding, then invite them. But to be honest if they havent bothered until now to provide an address (knowing how much stress and effort goes into organising a wedding), then I would say that they dont really deserve to be invited!

      Its your day in the end, so invite whoever you want, and dont under any circumstances feel bad about not inviting certain people! If they really wanted to come they would have contacted you far before now.

32. QUESTION:
    taking out a loan for a wedding?
    So ive head some good things about taking out a loan but then i heard way more negative things. Im not planning this big elaborate 100,000.00 wedding… my fiance both work part time and are in school. we have been enaged for over 2 years and just feel we dont wanna wait any longer to get married. i am planning to budget this wedding like you wouldnt believe. we are only inviting 183 people which i know most wont come and we wanna do just appetizers and cocktails no fancy dinner. most of my stuff is handmade–invitations, center pieces, etc. My mom is buying my dress and paying for the photographer…everything else is up to us. My fiance’s parents will not be able to help us out…. So i guess im asking is it a good idea to take out a loan to get married??
    first of all im not a child Mr Blunt so shut ur mouth.i am over the age of 25 and i am in school to further my career. im asking a simple question. and nobody will be eating just crackers. most of my family lives out of town so there for i know will be unable to make it. i have actually found a lot of cheap places that are willing to work with my budget.
    I never said i was going to take out a loan…it was just a simple question…thats it. I had money saved up but some unexpected circumstances came up with my car and my health so i had to dip into my account and use the money. I make WAY more than 10.50 an hour and so does my fiance. I know loans are a stupid idea so stop assuming that i was going to do it. I dont have any student loans…or car loans.. I have my wedding budgeted out to what i want and i was SENDING out a invites that added to 183people and I KNOW ALLL WONTshow. so youve misunderstood that type of information.

    • ANSWER:
      “Only” inviting 183 people. That is a lot of folks! You cannot afford such a large crowd, why you just invite those that you know that they will come, that will save you a ton of money.

      Also, you cannot invite 183 to eat crackers for dinner. Invite 60 and serve dinner. You can have an economical pasta meal and be a good hostess.

      Banks and not lending money, leave alone for a party for two kids that do not have any money. No one would lend you a dime for something that they cannot repossess.

      I suggest you have cheaper dreams and get real.

      Good luck

      ETA: Pardon moi, crackers AND cheese. LOL!

33. QUESTION:
    How to get money fast ?
    Right i need to earn €200 – €300 Euro fast before Sunday! I have a laptop, Nintendo Wii, I Can babysit, I also have a sponsor card but i wouldn’t dream of keeping the money from that! I can make handmade card’s, Wedding invitations , Cut grass, Gardening, But unfortunately i live in Ireland and the weathers not great, I have no car to get around. Im only 14. Please help it’s for a new pony !!

    • ANSWER:
      this is something wat i do from last three years and never had any kind of problem to paid or any else.
      they provide full information in their adds.

      http://earn–at–home.blogspot.com/

      just to 2-3 hr in a day and do just click on add and open that for 30 second.
      And u earn ur amount.—————-

34. QUESTION:
    Wedding Invitation Links PLEASE???
    I’ve been literally searching for months for that perfect wedding invitation set or kit. I’m not in a huge rush so I’d like to find the right one. I’m willing to print, glue & sticker whatever necessary to have a high quality, heavy card stock, classic (formal evening wedding) invitation. I’ve got all the catalogs, I’ve been to Michael’s, JoAnn’s, Target, Wal-Mart, Office Depot, etc. I’d prefer something that’s handmade “looking” in style.

    The closest I’ve come to finding something I like (for an example) is Paper Prince. My ideal item is from Birchcraft, but it’s from their “Handmade” line and it’s over 0 for all the pieces!! Can’t do that. I’d like to spend no more than 0ish for all pieces.

    My colors are black, white & burgundy/wine.

    Any suggestions?? Seen any great websites in your searching??

    I know it’s a challenging request, but it’s my wedding, right? I just want to find that special piece. HELP!

    • ANSWER:

      http://www.katerinasdesign.com/

35. QUESTION:
    i need a name for my business?
    I am starting up a business that involves creating handmade wedding stationery such as invitations, favours and table plans etc.. However, im having trouble coming up with a name for my business, any ideas?

    • ANSWER:
      Quafimofo’s House of Pain and Wedding Stuff

36. QUESTION:
    Is photoshop what im looking for?
    I am interested in creating one of a kind invitations, cards, photos, etc. I see tons of things sold on etsy.com and I want to purchase photoshop but dont want to fork out the money unless it is the program im looking for. Can anyone help. Here is are some examples of things Id like to make….

    http://www.etsy.com/listing/53399750/proud-as-a-peacock-bridal-shower?ref=sr_gallery_24&%3Bga_search_query=wedding+invitations&%3Bga_search_type=handmade&%3Bga_page=&%3Border=&%3Bincludes%5B0%5D=tags&%3Bincludes%5B1%5D=title’

    http://www.etsy.com/listing/52535827/anna-invitation-suite-sample?ref=sr_gallery_39&%3Bga_search_query=wedding+invitations&%3Bga_search_type=handmade&%3Bga_page=&%3Border=&%3Bincludes%5B0%5D=tags&%3Bincludes%5B1%5D=title

    http://www.etsy.com/listing/53387697/printable-bbq-themed-birthday-party?ref=sr_gallery_3&%3Bga_search_query=wedding+invitations&%3Bga_search_type=handmade&%3Bga_page=4&%3Border=&%3Bincludes%5B0%5D=tags&%3Bincludes%5B1%5D=title

    • ANSWER:
      For a more professional look try Adobe InDesign – it is page layout software that has many features for you to produce a very stylish product.

      It also allows you to do data merges so if you are looking at creating personalised products you can do this easily.

      As an added bonus it is printing/design industry standard software and is fully integrated with other Adobe software. You can also buy it as part of various bundles such as the Design Standard one which comprises InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobate.

      You can download a trial version from Adobe’s website, it’s available for both pc and mac.

      http://www.adobe.com/downloads/

37. QUESTION:
    I’m attempting to start a small scrapbooking business from my home and I’m looking for some feedback. ?
    I have found that many people enjoy having scrapbooks of their weddings, babies, vacations, or anything else that contains fond memories for them. However, many individuals do not have the time or the money to begin this expensive and time consuming activity. So, I’ve been thinking of beginning a small business in which I would make scrapbooks for these individuals.
    Please answer of each question below to help me get started! Thank you for your help.

    1. What type of scrapbook would you be interested in having made? None, Digital, Traditional or both Digital and Traditional?

    2. How much would you pay for a custom-made 8×8 digital album? 12×12 digital album? 8×8 traditional album? 12×12 traditional album? (Assume all books have 20 2 page spreads)

    3. How quickly would you like to receive your completed album?

    4. Would you prefer to have the journaling (stories to go along with the pictures) done for you or to have a spot left where you could journal yourself?

    5. Would you prefer the convenience of having me take care of copying original photos and printing digital photos for you or to print/copy your photos yourself?

    6. Would you be willing to meet for a 20-30 minute consultation so that I can understand your style preference and gain stories for journalling or would you rather do everything online?

    7. Would digital and/or handmade scrapbook style greeting cards, wedding invitations, place setting cards, invitations, etc be a good addition to this business?

    Thank you for all of your input!

    • ANSWER:
      1 and 2. Both digital and traditional but since it takes less time to do a digital scrapbook I wouldn’t pay nearly as much for it and may tend to decide to do digital myself but pay for a traditional, handmade scrapbook.

      I’m not sure on price and I think your price would be dependent on the complexity of the page designs. For example you could have several sample pages as different price levels so someonee could pick layouts they like and the price would be adjusted accordingly based on the time and supplies needed for the layouts. This way someone could have a book with mostly inexpensive, simple layouts and add one or two more complex pages for at an additional cost.

      3. Again I think this depends on the complexity and size of the book you are making. Anywhere from a week to a month.

      4. I think you should have both options but really encourage people to put in their own journaling. Journaling in your own handwritting is what makes a scrapbook so special and since your customer won’t be making the book themselves this adds this adds the personal element back to the book.

      5. Personally I would prefer to have you copy the photos. There is a big trust issue there so I might tend to get copies of irreplaceable photos. I think today most people have digital cameras and I could see dropping off a CD with the pics I want to you and letting you take care of the rest.

      6. I think the consultation is a MUST. Customers can look at different layout options and you can get an idea of who your customer is and what their style is.

      7. I think these would be an excellent addition. I tend to think you may actually have a bigger market for these items then actual full books.

      I think this is an awesome idea.

38. QUESTION:
    Logo for wedding & baptisms planning company in greece?
    I want to start a company of planning weddings and baptisms in Greece. I’m searching for a name that is easy to pronounce, sweet and easy to be remembered. I don’t like names that have the word “wedding” or the name of the owner (ex. christina’s events, etc). The logo I have done has a butterfly but I don’t like to name it “butterfly”. Additionaly I have to point out that all the things related to every event (invitations, favors, etc) will be handmade. Please help!!! I have 2 weeks.

    • ANSWER:
      Why don’t you search existing logo sites to get ideas?

      Here are some to try -
      Logo Search – http://www.logo-search.com
      LogoMaid – http://www.logomaid.com
      Web Design Elements – http://www.webdesign-elements.com

      What Makes a Good Logo – http://www.logo-search.com/what-makes-good-logo.htm

39. QUESTION:
    anyone selling wedding stationery?
    how much do you charge roughly for invitations? name cards? favours? and things like that? Are they handmade?

    • ANSWER:
      Hi, I just bought some handmade wedding stationary from a seller on Ebay. She charged me £34 + £9 P&P for 100 Wedding Invitations with Inserts and Envelopes (A6 size)

      Hope this helps

40. QUESTION:
    Attendants gifts?
    I got married in April and loved making hand crafted items for my wedding. I am thinking of selling some similar items online. I would appreciate your feedback.

    If there was a website that sold small, wooden chests personalized with the names or initials of each member of your bridal party handpainted on the tops, would you be interested in purchasing them? What about wooden plaques with names or images burnt into the wood? Also what would you consider to be a reasonable price?

    Would you purchase handmade invitations online? What would you be willing to pay?

    Would you mail order custom artificial flower arrangements such as bouquets? What would you pay for these?

    I really appreciate any input you can give.

    • ANSWER:
      Being a totally non-crafty bride, I would love that. The only thing, there are SOOO many wedding websites, I’m afraid yours might get lost in the shuffle.

      Good luck to you.

41. QUESTION:
    Birthday party invitation?
    My Niece sent a birthday party invitation to my sister’s 60th birthday party at a restaurant and stated it would be per person, plus perhaps for parking. She included a card like a wedding for us to fill in with the number of persons that would attend and we were to sent our check to her. She also included a note about the restaurant and how it would make things easier when the check came if we would pay ahead of time. Family members felt when they received the invitation that they were being “invited” to pay for a party they had no choice about the planning in. I expressed that to my niece and she cancelled the whole affair and will not speak to anyone in the family. The invitations were handmade and very lovely. What should I do? Was she wrong?

    • ANSWER:
      She was wrong, however good her intentions may have been.
      She should have told people that she was taking her mother out for her 60th birthday. She should then have asked if family would like to join them at a local restaurant to celebrate the event. That way, each person could order for themselves and pay what they could afford to pay for the meal. Each person could either contribute toward the paying of the birthday person’s meal, or buy a gift or both. You simply do not INVITE people to a party and then charge them. Do nothing, you were not alone in this opinion, she will get over it in time. Her intentions were probably good.

42. QUESTION:
    Wedding Etiquette: Help with bridal shower gift?
    This is a little long – I’m sorry. Lots of questions This gift is for my husband’s brother’s fiancee – so family – and I want to make sure it’s thoughtful, nice, and remembered. However, my husband and I are young, have 2 small children are by no means rolling in dough Actually, my brother in law and his fiancee are fairly well off and they’re known for giving more expensive gifts so I feel a little under pressure. I’m giving 2 gifts of course, for the fiancee at the bridal shower and both for the wedding. My husband is one of the best men so I don’t know if that consitutes an even nicer gift? I think he’s getting his brother something personally as well. The fiancee had on her bridal shower invitation that she was registered at Pottery Barn, etc. all very generic household items. Should I bring one of these to the shower or are they meant to be more for the wedding? I don’t want to be the only one not getting her a “personal” gift. Also, are handmade or personalized gifts really appreciated? I mean, their house is already really nicely decorated. I doubt she needs another cute photo frame (even though she loves things like that). I was going to order hand painted matching champagne glasses with their names, the wedding date, etc. or a hand painted personalized plate but would that be appropriate to give at the bridal shower? And would any of you like to receive something like that? It’s definitely taylored to the bride’s tastes. As I’m family, any suggestions on what to get her, and the both of them?

    • ANSWER:

43. QUESTION:
    Printed cards?
    Im trying to start up a handmade card website, but would like to have the wording (ie happy birthday or wedding invitation etc etc) printed on the front beforehand so that I can just add my design. I feel this would create a more professional look as opposed to just sticking the wording on using the pre printed stickers. Can anyone advise me of anywhere I can have this done? Will any printing company do this? Or somewhere on the web?

    • ANSWER:
      Check out Vistaprint at www.vistaprint.co.uk They are amazing & do all sorts at very reasonable prices. I would imagine that they would be able to help you.

44. QUESTION:
    Is this grounds to end a friendship? i need an opinion!?
    My:”best friend” got married last month and I was her maid of honor. I’m an artistic person and really tried to make it special for her. I organized (and helped pay) for her shower, handmade ALL the invitations for her shower, made her shower favors, got her a shower gift, bought my dress, orgnanized and helped pay for her bachelorette party, made 2 speeches (per her request at her wedding/shower) despite my fear of public speaking (and the groomsman–the groom’s BROTHER barely said a word for his speech), and made her a big scrapbook of our childhood together, and did other things among these.

    i thought i had put enough effort into her wedding and spent enough money but she kept hinting at how people didnt buy her gifts and the weddings been over for a while.

    well i got the hint and bough her and her husband a MODEST gift from their registry and she had the balls to leave me an instant message when i wasn’t even home to let me know that im supposed to be her best friend..
    and can’t believe i would spend so little on her wedding gift.

    ive really had it. i asked people here online if its okay to make a scrapbook or just do something small as a gift so thats what i did, given id spent enough.

    i feel at this point this is her problem, i did nothing wrong. what do you think?
    thank you everyone for your responses.. i feel better although still very angry… but i will tell her how i feel and expect nothing less than an apology! but i dont think we’ll be hanging out so much anymore

    • ANSWER:
      Okay I may get a thumbs down, the scrapbook idea is great if it had been of the couple. A scrapbook of her childhood would have been a great birthday gift.
      As the maid of honor your duties here are a few:
      Help shop for dresses (the bride’s and the bridesmaids’). And the MOH pays for her own entire wedding outfit (including shoes).

      Offer to help the bride with prewedding tasks, from addressing invites to choosing the wedding colors and nodding enthusiastically when she waxes poetic about wedding cake.

      Host or cohost a shower for the bride.

      Attend all prewedding parties.

      Plan the bachelorette party with the bridesmaids.

45. QUESTION:
    Is this invitation a bit insensitive, and is my gift idea OK?
    My cousin is having her wedding in the Seychelles in a year’s time. She sent all the family invitations, along with a helpful list of destination hotel quotes, all of which are around £3000 total, for the week’s accommodation alone. I thought “Quite steep, but it’s nice of her to have done a bit of research and given us an idea of how much we’ll have to pay to go.” However, she had then put a message inside the envelope saying that she and her fiance value the love of their family/friends more than any wedding gift, and although gifts would be very much appreciated, the best present of all would be having us all there on their wedding day.

    I understand her wanting her wedding in the place of her choice. I also understand her loving us and wanting us there, but if she wanted that, why didn’t she have her wedding somewhere where all of the family would be able to go, and make the foreign trip their honeymoon? Expecting to have both the exotic location and the full family gathering is ridiculous. Not a single other family member that I know of has that sort of money to spare even with a year to prepare. On top of that, it sounds as if she’s dumping on those of us who, ahem, “choose” not to give them the best present of all by joining them, and just send material gifts instead. It just sounds all wrong. Is it me, or is this badly expressed and insensitive?

    Regarding my gift, both the bride and groom’s parents are loaded, so any monetary gift that I give will be dwarfed by their extravagance, so I don’t want to give money. I can’t really afford anything expensive, but I don’t want it to look cheap either. I thought of having a really nice handmade flower arrangement delivered to the bride’s parents house (she still lives at home), or a nice wedding hamper from a gourmet chocolate or food gift company. What do you think?

    Thanks
    Melissariffic: Thanks – cool toaster comment, by the way! That made me see it from a different angle

    • ANSWER:
      It sounds that by stating they rather have the company than the gifts, it might make it easier financially for guests to attend however at that cost, they are dreaming, unfortunately.

      What the silly couple do NOT realize is wedding gifts are OPTIONAL!

      A relative of mine made a similar choice with their wedding..plus all the wedding involved was the ceremony and a restaurant dinner with GUESTS paying for their own…needless to say EVERYONE declined the invite, even both sets of parents. NO ONE could afford the travel and the accommodations, many had to apply for passports which they did not have, all for a short 10 minute ceremony and meal somewhere that guests had to pay for….

      The couple opted for a local wedding for most of the guests.

46. QUESTION:
    Can i have some arts and craft help please! ?
    Hi

    Basically my question is I’m looking for small labels with my name/address or phone number on them to stick on the back of my homemade cards. Its my Gran and Grandads ruby wedding anniversary in a few months and i thought i would make my own personal invitations since my Gran is always bringing up my art work in conversations. I thought it would be a really nice touch, making it so personal. I’m also considering making my own xmas cards this year ( sorry for mentioning so early! haha).

    I’ve noticed on a lot of handmade cards a small label/sticker on the back with the makers name etc. How would i go about doing this? Can it be done online or should i really go to a printing store?

    Thanks
    Emma,18

    • ANSWER:
      You could create your own labels on Microsoft Word or some program like that. Then you can cut the mini labels out and make them stickers with a sticker machine like this one:

      http://www.amazon.com/Xyron-Machine-Assorted-Colors-1-1-Permanent/dp/B0001DU6RS/ref=pd_sim_k_3

      I have that sticker maker, and it works really well. With this one you can only make things 1.5 inches tall or less, but I think that would be a great size for what you want!

47. QUESTION:
    How much does it cost, per jar, to make pickled green beans, asparagus, pickles, etc?
    We are having a summer wedding with a “Vintage Southern Garden Picnic” theme. For favors I would like to send our guests home with jars of handmade pickled veggies. Canning is a family tradition that I’d like to share with our guests.

    I’m trying to get a general idea of home much this would cost for our budget. We are capping the guest list at 180, but a few of these invitations are just courtesy invites who won’t be able to attend. That number also includes about 10-20 small kids who we will have alternative favors for.

    Also, does anyone have any suggestions for veggies beyond green beans, asparagus, peppers, and cucumbers? I’d like to add a few more unique options.

    • ANSWER:
      Well, it depends on the specific cost of the produce where you are, as well as if you get discounts for buying jars in bulk. What I would do if I were you would be to order the cans in bulk. http://www.containerandpackaging.com/item.asp?item=G036 is pretty nice; 96 cans for 40-something dollars. So let’s assume that some people want doubles, I’d buy two master cases for about 100 dollars total, and that gives you around 192 to work with.

      From then on, it depends on your personal recipes. What spices do you use? How much do you get your veggies for? Etc. What you should do is, when you buy all of the ingredients for ONE batch, write down how much they are and then how much you put into one specific jar. Then you can multiply that to however many you need.

      It would be a LOT of work but I think that it would be a unique and rewarding experience. Good luck!

48. QUESTION:
    Is this invitation a bit insensitive, and is my gift idea OK?
    My cousin is having her wedding in the Seychelles in a year’s time. She sent all the family invitations, along with a helpful list of destination hotel quotes, all of which are around £3000 total, for the week’s accommodation alone. I thought “Quite steep, but it’s nice of her to have done a bit of research and given us an idea of how much we’ll have to pay to go.” However, she had then put a message inside the envelope saying that she and her fiance value the love of their family/friends more than any wedding gift, and although gifts would be very much appreciated, the best present of all would be having us all there on their wedding day.

    I understand her wanting her wedding in the place of her choice. I also understand her loving us and wanting us there, but if she wanted that, why didn’t she have her wedding somewhere where all of the family would be able to go, and make the foreign trip their honeymoon? Expecting to have both the exotic location and the full family gathering is ridiculous. Not a single other family member that I know of has that sort of money to spare even with a year to prepare. On top of that, it sounds as if she’s dumping on those of us who, ahem, “choose” not to give them the best present of all by joining them, and just send material gifts instead. It just sounds all wrong. Is it me, or is this badly expressed and insensitive?

    Regarding my gift, both the bride and groom’s parents are loaded, so any monetary gift that I give will be dwarfed by their extravagance, so I don’t want to give money. I can’t really afford anything expensive, but I don’t want it to look cheap either. I thought of having a really nice handmade flower arrangement delivered to the bride’s parents house (she still lives at home), or a nice wedding hamper from a gourmet chocolate or food gift company. What do you think?

    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Tell her you cannot afford to go. For a gift send something involved with food (kitchen utensils, dishes, etc)