Whether you want to make a bold statement or be sedate and demure, invitations are the way to make the first impressions about your nuptials. The cookie-cutter invitations of days gone by, now pale in comparison to the innovative invitations we see today.
Here are some trends:
Embellishments: make your invitation stand out by adding tiny pearls, fabric flowers, pressed flowers, crystals, charms, glass or wooden beads, seashells or any thing to give it a three-dimensional effect. Embellishments can be added to the border, one corner of the invitation or to the envelope alone.
Colour
Shades of purple are the rage right now, as well as unusual colours such as coral, wine reds, avocado green and turquoise.
Be-ribboned
If you think adding embellishments will make your invitation look too bulky or too overdone, you can add a band of fabric ribbon or even coloured raffia onto envelopes or onto the invitation itself.
Monograms
Adding a monogram in a fancy script to your invitation is a sure way to create a unique look. Typically, monograms start with the first letter of the bride's name, followed by the first letter of the groom's last name and then by the first letter of the groom's first name. For example, if Melanie is marrying Chris Brown, their monogram would be "MBC"
Patterns galore
For a different look, try incorporating retro designs, such as paisleys, polka dots, plaids, vintage floral motifs or pinstripes onto your invitation. You can even inter-mix them, for example a pinstripe pattern with a floral motif, would add a contemporary touch.
A different format?
If the couple wants to be truly original, I've heard of invitations sewn onto textiles, invitations on CD, cookie invitations (yes, they are edible!), scroll invitations and invitations in miniature glass bottles or in handmade boxes.