Okay, making your own wedding invitations may sound like a challenging task, but it’s not as difficult as you might think. If you know how to use a computer reasonably well, you can do it. If you have a desktop publishing program, that’s even better, because it will give you step by step instructions. If not, you can make invitations with a word processing program as well.
Start by finding some pretty card stock at a good price. There are plenty of places to purchase card stock reasonably, including local stores like Wal-Mart. Choose a fairly heavy weight to make your invitations look and feel more elegant.
The simplest and quickest way to make your invitations is to make them a single layer. If you prefer something more formal, another simple method is printing the front and then make separate inserts for the inside instead of worrying about making sure the paper is facing the correct way each time you print. Using vellum paper for the insert is an elegant choice, but you can use the same card stock or a different color card stock for the insert if you like. Print each card and insert and then cut them to size.
Next print response cards if desired. R.S.V.P. cards can be a simple postcard. This will save you from having to buy small envelopes to fit the response cards, and it will save you money on postage, since postcards cost less to mail (and you are expected to include postage). You should be able to fit about six response cards on each page. Just copy and paste your message so it appears the proper number of times on your set up page then print. Cut invitations or response cards with scrapbook scissors to make decorative edges.
You can purchase prepackaged envelopes at Wal-Mart, office supply stores, or stationary shops, or you can order online. A less costly alternative is making invitation enclosures that work just as well as envelopes.
Purchase extra card stock in the same color or in a coordinating shade, cut it a bit larger than your invitation, and fold so it wraps around the invitation (see image). Make a small slit in the enclosure, the invitation, and any accompanying inserts with a pen knife and tie them all together with thin ribbon. Tie a knot to make sure the invitation is secure, and then tie a bow for effect. Seal the enclosure with heart shaped stickers or gold medallion stickers. Address and mail!
Note: When choosing card stock or enclosure material, make sure the color isn’t so dark that the printing won’t show up clearly.