HOW TO CREATE AN INVITATION WITH ROYAL STYLE
by Ceci Johnson
I know how overwhelming it can be to plan your wedding or special event. With so many decisions and choices out there, how do you know the right thing to do? And with all eyes on you, the last thing you want is to offend anyone or make a rookie mistake (since, after all, this IS the first time you’re doing this!).
First, let’s start with my take on the royal wedding invitations. I have to be honest and say I agree with the buzz that’s going around: William and Kate’s invitations were underwhelming. I realize they are a couple faced with traditional requirements. But since they are so young and stylish, I would have loved to see them send an invitation that was a more personal representation of their regal style – something tasteful, full of class, and unique that would set the couple apart and maybe even create a new trend for the royal family. Essentially, a modern twist on the traditional.
How would I approach it? Inspired by Kate’s sapphire engagement ring and her love of blue, I used the color for her save-the-dates and invitations. Then I paired it with the classic combination of gold and silver to give it the sophistication it needs. I also created a new royal crest for the couple that sits prominently at the top. Find my version, below.
If you’re dreaming of an invitation with regal style, here are the creative ingredients I would recommend when selecting yours. Ask about the possibility of incorporating these details into your invitation!
How to Create an Invitation with Royal Style:
-
Get Noticed: A traditional flat envelope simply won’t do when you’re trying to make a royal statement. You must try sending your invites in a box. You want your guests to know that yours is a special event not to be missed! What’s more, they’ll feel extra special when they receive it – always a plus!
Tip: If boxed invitations are over your budget, opt for my 3D gusseted envelopes. They are essentially “boxed” envelopes that weigh a fraction of what boxes do – saving you a lot on postage.
-
Go Beyond Paper: Opulence is key. And what better way to communicate lavishness than by using different materials like velvet and lace? Try wrapping your invitation in layers of purple velvet and glittering gold lace for an imperial color palette (see pictures above and below).
Tip: If these types of materials are out of your price range, try having a lace design printed onto your paper. You’ll still get the lacy details without the hefty price tag.
-
Typography Matters: When selecting the typeface for your invitation, it’s important to remember that different font styles send different messages. Elegant scripts are the most formal and traditional. The more elaborate they are, the more regal they will seem.
Tip: If an all-script invitation is too busy for you and seems hard to read, opt for mixed fonts. Make sure your names get the most elaborate treatment since they should be what really stands out.
-
Printing Style: The most traditional, refined route would be to go for engraving. But for a modern twist, I like to do foil stamping. Foil adds an extra-glamorous touch without being cheesy. It gives your invitation the perfect amount of shine to make it really stand out and look its best.
Tip: If printing the entire invite in foil is too much for you, try printing just your names on the invitation card in foil.
-
Finishing Touches: Details matter. When all eyes are on you, make sure you shine. Don’t skimp on finishing touches like hand calligraphy and custom stamps. Go all out – your guests will notice!
Tip: If hand calligraphy is too costly, it’s perfectly fine to opt for machine or digital calligraphy. Just choose a quality source and a beautiful script so you’re sending the proper message.
-
Make Your Mark: Treat yourself to a royal-looking family crest designed exclusively for you. Load it with tons of symbolism and personal details so it’s a completely new symbol of you as a couple. Think of it as something that you can pass on to future generations. Be inspired by the one we created for William and Kate and now apply it to your own world!
The essential components of a royal crest:
- Crown: Adorn your crest with a crown. Even though you may not be descended from royals, I say go for it! If a crown is too much for you, that’s OK. Try a sun or a fleur-de-lis, for example.
- Supporters: Every crest needs shield supporters. Think about your favorite animal or astrological symbol – or just go for gorgeous flourishes.
- Blazon: This is typically where your initials go. Create a gorgeous monogram that combines your first letters, which will go in the center shield.
- Details: Little details make it personal. Add your event date or the date you first met.
- Ribbon: A flowing ribbon makes a great frame for your first names or family name. Or try a message – possibly a favorite word like strength or love in Latin.
- Decorative Mantling: No crest is complete without decorative mantling. This can be in the form of flourishes or any beautiful filigree that balances out the design of your crest.
