Wednesday, January 16, 2013

{Wedding Planning 101} Hand Addressing vs Label Addressed Wedding Invitations

{Photo Credit:  A Day To Remember}

The never-ending question our brides always ask about addressing wedding invitations:  "What is appropriate when addressing envelopes?  Can I address my envelopes using labels?  Do I really have to address my envelopes by hand?"

The simple answers to these questions:
"What is the appropriate way to address envelopes?"  Handwritten addressing.
"Can I address my envelopes using labels?"  It's not appropriate.
"Do I really have to address my envelopes by hand?"  Yes!

Beautiful calligraphy work created by the amazing Patricia Leith of Calligraphy by Patricia

Now we all know, simple answers usually don't suffice, so let's explore this issue a bit more, shall we?  Let's face it, weddings are about tradition, and while most times we don't like following tradition, in reality...we do.  If not, then why go through the ritual of planning a beautiful wedding in the first place?

So, in following with tradition, the proper etiquette is to hand address your wedding envelopes.  Why? Well, there are many reasons, but primarily because it is so personal!  You've taken the time, thought and effort to invite your guest to one of the most important days of your life.

You're investing the time and effort to design a beautiful invitation, and you're going to stop when it comes to addressing your envelope? "Why bother with the invitation at all, then?"  We know how tempting it may be, especially if you have a large guest list, to print some labels, but, simply put it just isn't appropriate.  Handwritten addressed invitations, are not only more formal, but more personal.  

If you find it a daunting task to hand address your invitations alone, enlist the assistance of your wedding party!  Maybe you have a family member or friend you has great penmanship.  Other alternatives are commissioning a professional calligrapher, adding a sophisticated, formal feel.  If you are having a less formal wedding, calligraphers these days, offer so much more than one font style and can provide you with a more whimsical, casual look.

We’ve heard all the arguments against hand-addressing and for pre-printed labels: nobody pays attention to the envelope, handwriting etiquette is gone now that computers are here, anyone who cares about a label stuck on an envelope is petty. Well, the list goes on and on, but think about it...and be honest with yourself...You collect your mail from your mailbox, sort through your stack of mail and as your flipping through, you go past your bills, junk mail, handwritten envelope, bills, other envelopes with pre-printed labels, which one is going to really catch your eye and which one are you going to open first?

As soon as you see that handwritten envelope in your name, it brings a smile to your face, because it was personal, it wasn't a mass produced label, where your name was part of an Excel spreadsheet, merged onto a label document set for print.

So brides and grooms, we'd love to hear your thoughts, do you agree or disagree with hand addressing your wedding invitation envelopes? Will you be handwriting your invitation envelopes or will you pre-print them on labels?  We look forward to your thoughts!

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Monday, January 14, 2013

{Published} Anaise + Richard in Weddings in Houston Magazine

{Artwork Credit:  Weddings in Houston Magazine}

You met Anaise+Richard when we featured their engagement session; you enjoyed the beautifully styled bridal session of our lovely Anaise, both captured amazingly by the talented Kelly Hornberger of Kelly Horberger Photography.  We invited you to the beautiful wedding of Anaise+Richard through the eyes of the talented team at 31 Films. 

Anaise+Richard are just one of those memorable couples that turn into lifelong friends, family.  Nothing gave me more pleasure to see all the amazing details, the long hours of planning, creative juices flowing over dinner and drinks to create a beautiful memory for one amazing couple.  Now, enjoy the fabulous feature of such a beautiful wedding, of such an unforgettable couple in the 2013 Winter issue of the prestigious Weddings in Houston Magazine!



Tradition dictates paper is the first anniversary gift, so, it is our honor to present our wedding anniversary gift to our lovely Anaise+Richard, who will be celebrating their first year as husband and wife next month!  Happy Anniversary guys!

Let us create an unforgettable wedding for you.  Visit us on January 27th at the Weddings in Houston Magazine's couture bridal event...I DO! Soiree...become a featured couple!

Again, huge thank you to the amazing team of wedding professionals that made this perfect "day to remember" happen for Anaise+Richard!
Wedding Professionals:
Event Design + Planning: A Day To Remember
Ceremony: Holy Rosary Catholic Church
Reception: Crystal Ballroom at The Rice
Photographer: Kelly Hornberger Photography
Cinematographer: 31 Films
Catering: Sambuca's
Wedding + Groom's Cakes: Supreme Kakes
Linens + Lounge Rentals: A Day To Remember
Lighting + DJ Entertainment + Photo Booth: Space City Entertainment
Hair & Make-Up Artist: LP Makeup and Beauty
Transportation: The Original Trolley & Limousine Company
Stationery: A Day To Remember

{www.daytoremember.net}
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