Printing Options For Wedding Invitations

Did you know when it comes to ordering your wedding invitations, the type of print you choose is a big factor in the cost?

Here is a list of the common types of print you will find when you visit your printer.

Engraving
This is the most traditional for of printing. It is also the most expensive. An engraved invitation has raised lettering on the front which is pressed through so you can feel it on the pack of the paper. Engraving is usually used for very formal invitations.

Thermography
This is a good alternative to the costly engraving print. You'll get the look of engraving for half of the cost.
A thermographed invitation has raised lettering that is shinier than engraved print and does not press through the back of the paper.

Lithography (Off Set Printing)
This type of invitation is printed with ink but does not have raised lettering. It is less costly than either engraving or thermography.

Laser
If you're on a tight budget this is a great idea. Invitations can be produced on a laser printer, either at a professional print shop or at home. The result should be very similar to that produced by lithography.

If you are a creative person and want to make your own invitations, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Buy high quality blank invitation forms.(Don't forget to buy some extras for practice!)
2. Choose a typeface that is formal, crisp, and easy to read to make it look like professionally produced print.
3. Be very careful that the invitations are fed through the printer straight and evenly.

Calligraphy - Handwritten

If you are having a small intimate wedding or want to personalize your invitations a handwritten invitation on lovely stationery is a nice idea.

Handwritten invitations can be used for a formal or informal wedding.

You can hire a calligrapher if you do not have beautiful handwriting.

If you cannot afford to hire a calligrapher, a visit to you local printer can solve this problem. Most printers are now able to reproduce handwritten calligraphy using special software for half the price of a professional calligrapher.

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Until Next Time!

Jasmine :)

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Choosing Your Wedding Ceremony Music

Planning the music for your wedding ceremony can present many challenges. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers.

What Is the "Liturgy"?
The Liturgy refers to the Order of Worship within a religious service. Each denomination has its own liturgy, which is comprised of readings from scripture or poetry, musical interludes, a sermon/homily, prayers, offertory and exchange of vows and rings.

How Many Songs Will I Need?
This will depend on the length of the service and where you would like the music to be placed. The most common number is between 2 and 3 pieces before the service and 3 and 5 during. Sometimes more songs are needed depending on how elaborate a service you are planning.

Where Should the Songs Be Placed in the Service?
You will need a processional (entrance music, usually instrumental), and a recessional (exit music, usually instrumental). Other selections will depend on the order of the service. It is common to have prelude music before the service (either vocal and/or instrumental) and between readings to add variety and flow. You may also want a song right after the sermon or your exchange of vows and rings. If you choose to have a unity candle lighting, a brief song is also appropriate. All of this will depend on the order of the service.

For Christian services, you may choose to have a song during offertory and communion. Traditionally for Catholic Masses, the parts of the Mass are sung as well.

How Long Can the Songs Be?
You will want to consider the length of the song before determining where it occurs in the service. A song that is too long can make the service drag. One that is too short may lose impact and meaning.

Examples of song length:
Between Readings: 2 to 3 minutes
After Exchange of Vows: 2 to 3 minutes
During Unity Candle: 1 or 2 minutes
Offertory: 2 to 3 minutes
Communion: 5 to 7 minutes or 2 shorter pieces

Are the Lyrics Appropriate for My Wedding Ceremony?
It is important to review the lyrics of a song to be sure they are appropriate for you and if they capture the essence of your celebration. This is a very personal choice. However, there are many pop songs one may enjoy, but which may not be fitting for a religious ceremony. Just as there may be a beautiful song with a religious message that may not fit well in a non-religious ceremony. Again this is a very personal matter.

Are There Certain Restrictions Placed on the Music by the Clergy?
The Clergy of many churches feel it is important to maintain the sacredness and solmenity of the ceremony by setting parameters on music selection. Many parishes will provide guidelines for you. On the other hand, there are clergy who are more lenient and place no restrictions. It is recommended that you discuss this with your Pastor or Celebrant first.

Do I have to hire an organist?
Most churches and synagogues have a resident organist. If you choose to use instrumentation in addition to or in place of the organist, you will need to discuss the terms with that person. If no organist is provided, I will be happy to provide one for your ceremony.

What type of ensemble should I use?
In addition to having a vocalist with organ accompaniment, there is a variety of ensembles to choose from. Some popular combinations are listed below:
Voice + String Trio
Voice + String Quartet
Voice + Harp
Voice + Harp and Flute
Voice + Guitar
Voice + Guitar and Flute
Voice + Organ and Trumpet

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Until Next Time!

Jasmine

Monica Hatch is a vocalist with 20+ years experience and has sung for over 300 wedding ceremonies and dozens of receptions. Her styles range from the classics to the modern. She works with each couple individually to simplify the sometimes difficult and confusing music selection process