How to Create Breathtaking Invitations

Create invitations that recipients will admire.

Webster's New World Dictionary defines "breathtaking" as thrilling or as taking your breath away. Create breathtaking invitations by following your intuition and what moves you. Using a desktop publishing program, such as Microsoft Publisher, can give you control over the invitation design process. Take your time and reflect on each design element to achieve a level of sophistication and beauty in your invitation creations.

Things You'll Need

• Image(s) from computer files
• Scanner
• Color printer and ink
• Invitation card stock
• Matching invitation envelopes

Instructions

1. Use a Microsoft Publisher invitation with a basic layout that best fits your creative vision. Browse Invitation Cards listed in the left pane on the Publisher opening page and via the "View Templates from Microsoft Office Online" link at the top of the page. Select an invitation template with the folds you desire and according to the specific paper manufacturer you intend to use.

2. Open the Publisher invitation design template you've selected. Insert a font with subtle distinction. Publisher Times New Roman font italicized and in bold captures attention without distracting from the overall look of the card or the invitation content.

3. Add distinctive features such as a watermark on the inside left fold for subtle sophistication, for example, rather than an obvious background image.

4. Add a background color and complementary image to the front of your invitation template. For instance, insert a gradient color scheme with earthy browns and sunset orange. Add a line drawing of an elephant against that dramatic backdrop. Use images from the Internet or scan them from books, magazines or cards.

5. Write simple but elegant invitation content. Use formal wording to communicate the formality of the event, which your invitations reflect. Write, for example, "The pleasure of your company is requested for a white tie dinner." Follow with the details, writing out dates and numbers.

6. Print your final product on unobtrusive yet elegant invitation card stock. Use a color such as ivory or eggshell. Send the invitations in coordinated envelopes.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid including too many images and too much text, which will detract from the subtle impact of the invitations.

References

• Microsoft Office Online: Build Anticipation with a Publisher Invitation

Resources

• Invitation Consultants: Sample Wording for Every Occasion