Invitation Envelopes ? Make or Break Your Party

What will separate your party from all the other events of the season? Of all the planning that goes into your special occasion, there is no excuse to forget about specialty envelopes. Your invitation is the first impression that you and your party will have. There are many ways to make your invitations and envelopes the hit of the party.

How important are the invitation envelopes? The invitation envelope is the first contact that you will have with your guest list. You are working hard to create a theme for your get together, and your envelopes need to reflect the theme. If you are having a wine tasting party, let your guests know immediately when they grab the mail. For a baby shower, your envelopes should reflect baby images.

Choose Your Envelope ? Tough to Decide

Envelope styles are cooler than ever. Many craft and scrap booking stores have some of the best options no matter what your theme is. Some of the best envelopes are those that have never been seen before. Here are some of the latest design ideas:

• Vellum. This semi-transparent paper is smooth. It is available in glossy and matte, in just about any color you can imagine.
• Square envelopes. A shift from the norm is the square version of the commodity. The square shape definitely sticks out in the mail.
• Clear Translucent. A unique alternative that offers a glimpse inside.
• Foil-lined. Linings are a great way to add color and texture to your invitation. Set the color theme of the evening.
• Linen. Classy, yet relaxed. Linen envelopes should be reserved for special occasions.
• Metallic Foil. More than just lining, the metal sheet-style envelope leaves nothing to be desired.
• Plastic button and string envelopes. Trendy and vibrant. A summer pool party complete with waterproof invitation envelopes.

These are just a small selection of the envelopes that are available. You'll be surprised how inexpensive these party favors are. Buying in bulk is still the best option. Envelopes are sold in units from one to one thousand.

Personalize Your Invitation or Envelope

Now that you have some ideas for the style and design of the special envelope for your gathering, there is more work to do. Customize your envelopes and make a theme that best represents your party plans. The ideas are numerous, but all are quite easy to put together. Create them yourself, or enlist the help of your friends. Some ideas that never go unnoticed:

• Stickers. A classic, yet favorite method of adding charm. Everyone likes stickers, and they can be found in every variety.
• Paper doilies. Add vintage form to your favorite envelope.
• Rubber stamp kits. They're available in all shapes, styles, and themes. You can pick your own color.
• Glitter. A fan favorite for young and old. All colors and sizes.
• Yarn and ribbon. Available anywhere. You make the design how you want it.

Getting the most out of your gathering begins with the planning. For your guests, it begins with the invitation. Make them excited for your event as soon as they look through the mail.

Robb Ksiazek is an author and publisher for Checks-4U.com. He has researched and written about the little things that make a difference in the paper supply industry, from personal and business checks to envelopes and address labels. Turn the ordinary into extraordinary.