Formal invitations can add an elegant touch to many events, especially weddings. In these days of e-mail and phone invitations, any kind of written invitation may seem formal. Truly formal invitations often incorporate fine paper and printing, engraving or calligraphy, as well as traditional wording and attention to detail. However, no matter how fancy an invitation is, its purpose remains the same: to make guests feel welcome and prepared for the event.
Significance
Formal invitations reflect the formality of the event, as well as the host's personal preferences. They are appropriate for black-tie galas and award ceremonies, sophisticated graduation parties and haute couture weddings. The style of the invitation gives guests an idea of the formality of the event, and cues them to dress accordingly. Guests may be confused if they receive an embossed invitation to a backyard barbecue, or a casual postcard invitation to an elegant wedding ceremony. A formal invitation sets just the right tone for a formal event.
Features
Formal invitations generally feature high-quality paper with the wording engraved, finely printed or hand written in calligraphy or other decorative scripts. Formal invitations also use highly stylized, traditional wording. For example, a formal wedding invitation may be issued by the bride's parents, even if the bride and groom are both adults, and use phrases such as "request the honor of your presence." Formal invitations may also spell out numbers, such as dates and times.
Function
Formal invitations may use a single sheet of paper, or a folded card. They may contain embossed borders, ribbons or other decorative elements that suit the host's style. Traditionally, formal invitations are placed in an inner envelope, along with a sheet of tissue paper. Originally, the tissue served the purpose of preventing smudging, but with improvements in print technology, it is included only out of custom. The inner envelope may also contain a response card or directions to the event location. The inner envelope goes inside an outer envelope for mailing.
Time Frame
In order to send out formal invitations on time, hosts need to start working on them at least several months in advance. In general, formal invitations are sent about six weeks before the event. This allows guests time to respond, and the host time to obtain an estimated guest count for the caterer or facilities. For engraved invitations, or those done in calligraphy by hand, the stationer may need up to several months to create the invitations. The stationer may include stuffing, addressing, and mailing the envelopes in their services, or they may send the invitations to the host for preparation and mailing.
History of
Formal written invitations were common among the French and English nobility of the 18th century. Even after the invention of the printing press, these invitations were written by hand and personalized to each guest, since the wording, penmanship and paper quality of the invitations reflected the wealth and education of the hosts. The invitations were not mailed, but hand-delivered by servants. After improvements in printing technology and engraving became widespread, commercially printed invitations, especially wedding invitations, became popular in the United States after World War II.
Tags: Formal invitations, inner envelope, invitations were, Formal invitations, Formal invitations also