Pocket invitation trends vs. stationery budget

Envelopements and box invitations seem to be today's hottest trends. I wish I would have known about them when I designed my wedding invitations! They would have been my first choice as well.

Although Envelopment's ever popular Pocket Folds are beautiful and a great way to keep your enclosures organized, they may not always be the wisest choice.

I have come across many brides who seek these Pocket Folds simply because they come in a variety beautiful papers, and they are still considered to be more unique than traditional invitations. The downfall is that the convenience of a pocket does come with a higher price tag.

They start at about $2 each, and on top of that you still have to pay for the stock to print the invitations on, the stock for the enclosures, stock to create a seal for the outside cover (optional), envelopes, printing, assembly, design and postage. The more layers there are, the higher the cost because you are paying for more materials and manual labor.

Although I too am a huge Envelopments fan, I always speak to my clients with the truth. Yes, these are beautiful, but if you're only going to tuck in the RSVP card (which will be mailed back to you) you're paying and extra $2.00 per invitation for a pocket that will remain empty once your guests have mailed back the RSVPs.

On the other hand if you are including inserts, such as an RSVP card and envelope, driving directions, a map and a list of local accommodations - Pocket Folds are definitely worth your investment!

My advice is, rather than feeling deprived or limited by a modest budget, keep in mind that there are many other ways we can enhance and create a one of a kind invitation set for you. An $800 budget may seem very limited for an order of 100 pocket fold invitations with all the bells and whistles. But this same amount can come a long way by using the same card stocks as the pocket folds you love, in a different design with a variety of embellishments. From rhinestones and photo images to sealing wax - the possibilities are endless!

Pictures of alternate, yet equally stunning designs, coming soon.