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I think your paper selection is the most important part of your wedding invitation. Sure, a good design is nice to have, but print it on a plain piece of bright white office paper, and it will look like junk. Even the simplest type set invitation will look stunning on a specialty paper. Putting a little extra investment into paper can make a big difference. If you don’t work with paper often, it can be difficult to decide on the best stock for your chosen invitation design. This is a guide to help you select the best paper for your wedding invitations.

A few general guidelines:

• Use at least 100lb stock. Nobody wants a flimsy invitation.
• Keep in mind that if you have too many pages of thick stock, you may end up paying more for postage. You can get the cards weighed at the post office.
• Be aware of your wedding white. Are you going with a bright white or more of a soft, off-white tone?
• Make sure you can get envelopes in the size and colour you like before you print! Envelopes are usually the toughest piece to find, especially if you want a unique colour or size.

Matte Cardstock

This smooth paper is an inexpensive and practical choice. It takes large areas of colour well, and is neutral enough to go with any invitation design. It works well with most designs but can feel flimsy if the weight is not thick enough. Comes in a variety of colours and textures. Can be printed digitally, offset, or foil stamped.

Metallic Cardstock

Metallic papers are slightly more expensive than the matte alternative but they add that extra sparkle in a simple invitation. Depending on the look that you are going for, this paper can really transform a simple design into a sophisticated piece. Comes in a variety of colours and textures. Can be printed digitally, offset, or foil stamped.

Cotton Paper

Cotton stocks have a lovely heft and feel in the hands. It is durable and takes ink well. Designed for letterpress, but if your printer can accommodate it’s thickness it takes inkjet ink well. This paper will make any invitation design look great, but large coloured areas may not print evenly. This stock is most often seen in bright white or off-white but it is available in a variety of colours.

Kraft Cardstock

With a warm neutral colour and enough texture to keep it visually interesting, this Kraft stock is a great choice for a natural or rustic wedding. May not feed through all printers, so be sure to check the paper weight. Darker paper colour requires darker inks for proper contrast. Can be printed digitally, offset, or foil stamped.

Textured Paper

There are so many uniquely textured papers that you can use. From linen, and eggshell for those romantic invitations, to silk, and leather for those more adventurous couples. Don`t be afraid to add some texture and incorporate it into the design. You wouldn`t want to spend money on a gorgeous paper and cover it up with ink!

As always, I am happy to help you in your paper selection process. I can find the best fit for your look and budget.