The Classic Wedding
From the grand ballroom or country club setting to the timeless, elegant decor, you're all about a classic, black-tie wedding.
Design details: Traditionally, formal wedding invitations are designed with an elegant script. And while you don't want to sacrifice readability, a font with a lot of flourish -- in black, navy or gold -- is usually the go-to for classic invites. If you want to bring in another brighter color, edge painting (where the stationer paints the edge of your invitation) is a sophisticated option. Finish off the look with a custom-designed monogram or motif and ivory envelopes with hand-calligraphed addresses.
Printing pointers: Go for a hefty white or ivory paper. The more upscale printing methods (like letterpress and engraving) and details (like foil monograms) require it. "Thicker paper communicates that this is an important event -- it literally feels special," says Ceci Johnson, founder and creative director for Ceci New York, a luxury stationery company in New York City. "It's all about visual effect -- you want your invitation to stand out from the rest of the mail."
> Photos: Classic wedding invitations
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Photo: Kate Mathis / The Knot