In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, conversations often center around Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) so it’s easy to overlook the immense impact that other emerging technologies are having on various industries, including weddings. While AI and VR certainly command attention, another captivating medium has quietly revolutionized the wedding scene over the past several years—augmented reality (AR). The advantages of using AR to elevate your wedding are as limitless as the technology itself but the two main issues which this technology has solved are: how to save money in creative ways and how to impress guests who have seen it all and etch an unforgettable experience in their hearts.

https://vimeo.com/845734642?share=copy

Understanding augmented reality (AR)

In essence, AR is a technology that overlays computer-generated images onto a user’s real-world view. Imagine your phone or tablet becoming a window that enriches reality with virtual enhancements. Utilizing the smartphone’s accelerometer, AR objects seamlessly integrate into your surroundings, creating the illusion of coexisting in the physical world. For instance, by pointing your phone at an AR-enabled object like a desk, you can witness that desk as your normally would but now with an animated cartoon rabbit sitting on the desk. As you move, the rabbit scales and interacts just like a real object would, offering astonishing effects, immersive experiences, and unparalleled levels of engagement and interactivity. Typically these effects are launched by a simple QR code that opens up the entire AR dimension in tandem with reality so it is seamless, natural, and easy to use. The key difference between AR and VR is that Virtual Reality requires a headset and 100% of what the user sees is computer generated while Augmented Reality maintains a view of the real world through the user’s phone so it is much more seamless and applicable.

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Real World Case Study – The Benefits of AR in Wedding Invitations

Consider how AR technology can be a game-changer in the wedding industry, particularly when it comes to invitations. With costs becoming so accessible and operation becoming so user-friendly, AR is now widely used in the mainstream. Picture this: your guests receive your beautiful paper invitation through the mail and then it comes to life as they point their phones at it… hummingbirds flutter, confetti rains down, flowers bloom, and butterflies dance around your paper invite, while your music plays in the background creating a captivating and immersive prelude to your big day. Enabling invitations with AR enhancements has become a remarkably simple yet stunning mechanism that weaves astonishing technology with traditional practices. There are many design and programming agencies who build these experiences for couples as well as corporate clients although it’s generally much easier to use a focused provider such as www.live-invites.com for ease and cost efficiency. All AR designers should be able to offer interactive animations as well as customizable audio (viewer hears your music when looking at invite), 3D messaging, links to your wedding websites or to RSVP directly from their phones. Make sure that whichever AR design company you select can use your existing traditional invite and would be willing to send you a free demo to try beforehand. The use of AR enhanced wedding invitations has grown exponentially in recent years as most all users agree this addition is the best thing to happen to the invitations market since colored ink!

Why Choose AR for Your Wedding?

The versatility of AR extends to various elements within your wedding. While interactive wedding invitations continue to be the most widely utilized medium, AR programming has brought awe-inspiring experiences to life through interactive visual activations on menus, drink coasters, seating charts, signage, dance floor decals, and even cake toppers! As engaging, unique, and exciting as AR has proven to be, perhaps the greatest attribute contributing to its precipitous growth has been the cost saving opportunities which correlate positively with the number of applications at your wedding. For those who look beyond invitations and have utilized AR in their décor they have found THOUSANDS of dollars in savings while creating their own immersive fairy tale powered by AR. For example, consider your average table setting which costs around $500 multiplied by 18 tables for a cost of $9,000. Comparatively, you can create an astounding AR enabled table settings for the same price of $500 however that single AR table setting can be used in an unlimited number of locations so your final price for 18 tables is still only $500, creating a whopping $8,500 savings for you or your clients while delivering a next-level experience! $9,000 for a standard setting or $500 for the same setting that includes interactive fireworks, shimmering stars, or virtually any other effect which your guests will see come to life above your table. Most good design agencies will offer an option to work with you 1-on-1 for fully customized designs such as custom avatars of the bride and groom dancing through the air or anything else which may be individually desirable such as a pet, specific automobile, favorite clothing, etc. If you are a wedding or event planner, be sure to ask the selected AR design company for a referral rebate as most reputable agencies should be willing to create a professional relationship with you and give you a rebate each time your clients utilize their service for an event. They may even be willing to give you a special discount code which many planners say is very helpful in their recruitment of new business.

AR Applications to Elevate Experiences and Subtract Costs

Among the more creative use cases of AR in the wedding industry, many couples are now utilizing customized face filters and background effects for eye-popping selfies in lieu of a standard photo booth. Those who employ AR face filters and background effects (think Snapchat) personalized for their event are seeing much higher rates of engagement as guests are much more likely to utilize a customized selfie than they would be to visit a photo booth, furthermore, this option saves couples another $,7,000 (cost for the average photo booth) while elevating their experience. In response, many photo booth vendors are now working with these customized AR selfie shots by ditching their expensive cameras and utilizing tablet computers and monitors to deliver a fun, unique, and exciting experience at a much lower cost and with the additional capability to upload directly to social media or your photo bank. Additionally, other creative programmers are selling pre-designed decals which customers apply to their dance floors to display their favorite movie characters partying on their dance floor for literally unbelievable pictures and elevated dancing experiences. Users of this method report guests “breaking the ice” on the dance floor much earlier and higher rates of engagement meaning more people on the dance floor. Pair these face filter selfies or dance floor decals with your event hashtag for increased shares and utilization to document your unforgettable and unbelievable night, driving curiosity and engagement with more viewers in the online community.

Unveiling the Power of AR

Believe it or not, utilizing AR-enhanced invitations and décor is rather simple thanks to advancements in user-friendly websites and device computing power. Currently the only requirement is a smartphone and a tangible piece such an invite, sign, menu, floor decal, etc to launch the activation. The tangible signage allows for a seamless and symbiotic relationship between traditional elements and the most cutting-edge interactive technologies while maintaining classic elegance. Ideally whichever AR options you select will lay over top of your traditional/tangible elements to visually supplement but not disrupt your event theme or environment when the technology is not in use so if someone misplaces their phone your wedding will still look perfect.

Measuring the Benefits of AR

A traditional paper invitation will be viewed for an average 38 seconds; that same paper invitation enhanced with interactive AR effects will be viewed for an average period over 190 seconds according to research done by Accenture analyzing 14 million use cases. Viewers of AR activations also report a 78% increase in “emotional connection” while feelings of “uplifted and happy” increase by 55% according to research by META. All research certainly indicates that there is no other modification to your existing wedding plans that can even come close to the positive impacts of AR at your event.

Witness the Magic Yourself!

For a hands-on understanding of AR\’s enchantment, try it out below. If you\’re on your laptop, grab your phone, turn up the volume, scan the QR code, and point your phone at the sample invite below. If you\’re reading this on your phone, borrow another device to scan the QR code, point the phone at the invite design and witness the AR transformation.

What’s on the Horizon? How Can You Dive Deeper?

In the future we can expect to see AR interwoven much more prominently into more events for many of the reasons above but also for education and general delivery of information. Couples looking for the highest level experience will likely begin having their own wedding app created so that the AR experience can launch without a QR code and remain open throughout the event and potentially eliminating the need for tangible items entirely. As you visit AR provider websites be sure to ask many questions and inquire about the newest options as with all technology the capabilities are evolving on a daily basis. Play around with various options and you will likely see that AR is a harmonious blend of the real and virtual worlds, delivering moments that will be etched in hearts forever.

Jason is a veteran event producer specializing in professional sports and live music shows. He has built two immersive technology museum activations and focuses on creating engaging experiences for large groups with the most contemporary technologies available.

The post Interactive Invitations: How augmented reality can save thousands of dollars appeared first on Weddingchicks.

When you’re wedding planning every little thing starts to add up, but now there’s a way to save a ton of $$$ (and time!) on your wedding invitations. Truly Inspired Paper Co. came up with Trifold and Seal and Send Invitations and they’re a complete game changer!

trifold invitations

Like the name says, their signature Trifold Invitations are divided into three parts on either side, leaving plenty of room for all of the necessary details (and a few fun additions too). With their beautifully designed templates, all you have to do is upload your address list, add in your details, and send, then just wait for the RSVPs to roll in. Speaking of RSVPs, with the Trifold Invitations you can opt to have the bottom panel printed as a detchable RSVP postcard. Or, if you’re keeping everything digital, they’ll create a QR code that links to your wedding website or provide your guests with instructions on how to RSVP. These efficient alternatives to the traditional wedding suite will not just save you time and money, just think of all of the paper you’ll be saving too!

seal and send invitations

Envelope and invitation all in one, their Send and Seal Invitations start as a unique chevron-shaped card that folds strategically into an envelope shape that can be sealed and mailed just like that! Like their Trifold designs, there are a ton of beautiful options to choose from and so many fun ways to customize your design. We especially like the ones with the photo upload options for a really personal touch. Truly Inspired Paper Co. even includes clear mailing seals with your purchase, all that’s left to do is add the postage!

more than invitations

Invitations are probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of printing for your wedding, but once you check off that box, there’s still more printing to consider. You’ll want your wedding theme (fonts, colors, layout) to be cohesive throughout, so it’s always a good idea to have all of the printing done by the same company.

Here is your wedding printing checklist:

Menus– Menus are a great way to inform your guests about what is in their meal but they’re also a perfect opportunity to work some of your wedding colors into your tablescape design.

Place Cards– Help your guests find their seat and their table by having beautiful place cards printed with their names. You can even use these place cards to create an escort card display for your reception.

Signage– From your welcome sign to the gift table, signs are a MUST for weddings. They minimize confusion, and they’re super cute especially these acrylic ones!

Programs– A wonderful way to introduce your bridal party to your guests and to inform everyone about specific traditions. Plus, these make the best keepsakes!

Thank You Cards– This one is a no-brainer, but so often couples forget to order these when they order their invitations. Truly Inspired Paper Co. has plenty of coordinating designs so you can keep everything cohesive.

Check out @trulyinspiredpaper on Instagram to see even more of their unique designs.

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We partnered with Truly Inspired Paper Co. to bring you these innovative invitation suite alternatives. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors.

The post Trifold invites are the new wedding suite–you heard it here first appeared first on Weddingchicks.

On your wedding day, all you want to focus on is your spouse and your loved ones! You do not want to worry about your RSVP’s, guests finding your venue, or any of the other logistical details that can take you out of your day. Riley & Grey is here for all your wedding website needs with their gorgeously designed sites! Riley & Grey offers a diverse line of custom wedding websites that consider every aspect of your day, from your earliest planning to your big day.

Pixels to paper

Many couples hesitate to plunge into the digital wedding world because they love the physical quality of wedding invitations. Riley & Grey anticipated their clients’ needs with stunning website designs with paper invitation integrations.

Take your wedding website from pixels to paper with seamless invitation and RSVP management!

RSVP management

Picture this: Your luxury quality invitations are delivered to your guests, they see the link to your website, and they are directed to easily and accessibly RSVP, get directions, and get all the amazing details of your day in one place.

The RSVP section can be fully customized to add the guest name, their plus one options, and even their dinner/meal selection. All paper invitations are available for international shipping, for any guests coming from another destination. Have peace of mind knowing all your guest needs are met from your save the dates to the reception with Riley & Grey.

Wedding websites made for YOU

Weddings aren’t one-size-fits-all so why should your wedding website be? Riley & Grey’s beautiful and inclusive sites were designed to match your personality, culture, and language needs. Editing your site in the UK? You can easily remove any references to American rehearsal dinners, add in those wedding breakfasts, and change groomsmen to ushers on your website and invitations. Having a traditional Indian wedding with more than a few events? Their sites can accommodate that too.

Utilize your website through features such as a “Cultural Etiquette Guidelines”, where you can instruct your guests on what to expect, include a FAQ, and offer a glossary of terms to help them embrace your wedding’s cultural traditions. This section could include dress codes, gift-giving customs, and appropriate behavior during religious ceremonies. This easy to design feature will take the guesswork away from guests and give you more time to soak up the special traditions of your day!

Multi Cultural Wedding

Planning a multi-day cultural wedding? Know exactly which friends and family will be attending with seamless online RSVP integration! You’ll also be able to guide your guests, no matter where they’re coming from, with an internationally flexible wedding website. Custom “Travel” and “Accommodations” sections are available to show air, taxi, and train travel and local hotels for any guest’s wedding planning.

They’ve got you covered with international weddings in mind! R&G’s platform is created for all, with many easy modifications for your wedding website to reflect your cultural or traditional wedding details. Each website can offer translation options for you and your guests needs, with a variety of options. Translations and/or brief explanations can be used in various sections of the website so that guests are connected and informed about every aspect of your day.

LGBTQ+ inclusive

Riley & Grey’s websites are also LGBTQ+ inclusive and offer fully customizable sites to remove gendered language. No more misgendering or squeezing yourself into a box for a wedding industry that is historically heteronormative. R&G’s site can accommodate any pronouns and partner preferences throughout your site and invitation designing process. For any bride or groom looking to get started, Riley & Grey is as unique as you are!

Stress-free design

The best part of Riley & Grey’s online designer is that it’s incredibly simple to use! R&G designed their wedding websites with any couple in mind, knowing that the less time you spend on your wedding website the more time you can spend with your fiancé(e). Take the burden of tracking paper RSVP’s off with a seamless web platform! Everything is covered, and it will only take a few minutes of your time.

No knowledge of HTML needed

No knowledge of HTML or web design are needed, with a huge variety of templates for any couple’s aesthetic. You can sort your website template designs by style, color, or by paper invite compatibility. Riley & Grey only offers wedding website design so you know that any option you might need is available. Looking for a customization for your unique wedding day? Riley & Grey’s personable customer support team will assist you with any site customizations you might need!

Luxury sites that make weddings easy

Thank you to our sponsor Riley & Grey for sharing their fabulous wedding websites! Their luxurious interface makes it easy to direct guests to RSVP, book amenities, and more. Riley & Grey is beloved by publications such as BRIDES, InStyle, and Harper’s Bazaar because they only specialize in wedding websites. With both month-to-month and annual plans, R&G has a membership that works best for any couple. As an exclusive offer for our readers, you can get 25% off your wedding website with the code RILEYGREYWC25 (code expires on 8/31/23).Take the stress out of wedding planning with a beautifully customized wedding website and invitation suite from Riley & Grey!

The post Riley & Grey’s Wedding Sites Catering to All Genders and Cultures appeared first on Weddingchicks.

If you’re looking for an instant way to level up your wedding game that’s also surprisingly affordable–the answer is custom paper goods. From custom-printed vow books to menus and programs, all of these little things really add to the overall vibe of your wedding and give it that custom feel. A.E. Paperie is hands down one of our favorite stationery designers and we love that they offer complete custom designs and semi-custom designs so there’s something for every budget! Whether you have a vision or just want to sit back and rely on their eye for design, their expert team will work one-on-one with you to create the perfect statement for your love story. Plus, these babies also double as keepsakes. Seriously, how gorgeous are they? And you’ll be happy to know that this New Jersey-based team also offers virtual consultations and ships worldwide!

say it with paper

Is it just us, or does living in the digital age make you appreciate a paper invitation so much more? That feeling when you walk to the mailbox and see that textured paper envelope peeking out from a pile of bills. Seeing your name lovingly printed next to curated stamps and gingerly opening it to find a beautifully curated suite complete with coordinating RSVP cards and hotel block instructions. A solid wedding invitation suite really sets the tone for your wedding and gets your guests amped up for what’s to come. But A.E. Paperie will tell you that a wedding is about so much more than just the invitations. Here are the paper goods that we can promise you are worth the investment:

“I can’t begin to put into words how perfect these cards turned out. I messaged A.E. Paperie and they immediately got back to me with a draft. They had them printed and shipped so quickly. When the mail seemed to have lost them, Aubrey was keeping track of their arrival date and noticed that they weren’t going to make it in time so she had them reprinted and rushed to us! She was being so careful to ensure that they arrived in time for our flights. I couldn’t have been happier!”- Adam + Jamie

bridesmaid + groomsmen proposal cards

Once the engagement is official, it’s time to pop the other question–”Will you be my bridesmaid?”. And seriously, who could say anything but, “Hell yeah” to a cute card like this? If you’re looking for a cute thank you gift, these also look super cute in a double frame next to the two of you at the wedding–just sayin’.

vow books

Ok, we cannot stress enough how important it is to invest in cute vow books. Reason #1, you don’t want to be reading from a crinkled piece of notebook paper in your wedding photos. And while that should be reason enough, it’s definitely worth noting how nice it is to have vow books to look back on and remember all of the promises you made to each other.

“When I first reached out to A.E., I thought I was going to be an easy customer – I wanted to keep things very simple and plain. When it came down to the finer details, I realized I was way more picky than I had anticipated! Aubrey was completely professional and was able to adapt quickly to my changes in direction. Above all, Aubrey was organized, efficient, and polite – would definitely work with A.E. again!”-Katie + Andrew

wedding programs

One word–luxe. Nothing says luxe more to us than custom wedding programs. They’re visually pleasing and are also a great way to incorporate your wedding color palette into your ceremony. Whether they’re waiting for your guests on their seats or handed to them as they enter, wedding programs add that special touch that really takes the design to the next level. Plus it’s also a really nice way to introduce your friends and family to your bridal party (in case this is their first time meeting in-person).

menus, place cards, + table numbers

Your tablescape is another great place to incorporate paper goods. Placecards and table numbers are a MUST to help your guests find their seats. Even if your guests have already made their selections, menus are a great way to get them pumped for the incredible meal to come. And, from color choices to style, these two additions are a great (and super affordable) way to anchor the tablescape design.

thank you cards

These babies often go overlooked, but for a truly cohesive guest experience, you definitely want to order thank you cards that match your wedding invitation suite. It’s the perfect way to finish the beautifully curated experience that you worked so hard on.

“I went to A.E. Paperie with a few vague ideas since I really had no clue. She was able to create something beyond words for our unique wedding theme. We are in love with everything we ordered and the friendliness I received from her. Would totally recommend A.E. Paperie!”-Brianna

the packages

Now that you’ve got your wedding paper shopping list, let’s talk discounts! A.E. Paperie offers three different packages, depending on your needs–Bronze, Pearl, and Crystal. And right now, they’re offering some incredible discounts on each of the packages. Set up your design consultation today.

Bronze: 5% off two offerings

Pearl: 10% off four offerings

Crystal: 15% off six offerings

Check out even more possibilities on their IG @a.e.paperie

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We partnered with A.E. Paperie to bring you these wedding must-haves. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors.

The post Add custom touches to your wedding with A.E. Paperie appeared first on Weddingchicks.

These days, a wedding website is a must, but where do you even start? Before you try to learn how to write HTML, rest easy knowing there are sites that make wedding websites for you. Allow us to recommend one of the most all-inclusive, user-friendly platforms we’ve come across–Riley & Grey. Their wedding website templates are designed by editorial experts and fashion industry insiders so your guests are getting a chic first impression of your big day right off the bat. With their easily customized templates, you can build a beautiful wedding website effortlessly and showcase your story and style. But the sites from Riley & Grey are so much more than just a landing page, let’s get into it…

25% off your website
-at checkout enter code-
WEDDINGCHICKS25

Enter WEDDINGCHICKS25 at checkout for 25% off. This Riley and Grey coupon code expires on July 1, 2023.

RSVP management

Quite possibly the hardest part of guest management is the RSVPs. Even if you mail them the stamped envelopes, you’d be shocked how many guests simply forget to post them (or maybe not because we’ve all been that guest before). This is really where a solid wedding website like Riley & Grey can help. You can send digital copies of your invites to all of your guests and they can RSVP right then and there on their phone or computer. Then, Riley & Grey goes the extra mile and organizes all of the RSVPs for you into one easy list that you can pass along to your planner and all of your other vendors that need to be in the know like the caterer and venue coordinator. Guests can also RSVP for more than just the wedding itself, so get the most out of your Riley & Grey site and use it to organize your rehearsal dinner and post-wedding brunch too! And don’t worry, you can select which guests you extend each invitation to.

plus 1 permissions

One of the most awkward parts of wedding planning is fielding uncomfortable calls and texts from family and friends requesting a plus one. Riley & Grey’s RSVP platform makes everything super clear, ie. who is and is not allowed a plus one so there’s no confusion.

tons of customization

You’re here, so we know you appreciate good wedding design and you definitely have your own ideas when it comes to your big day. Riley & Grey sets you up for success with their gorgeous templates, but there is plenty of room to make it your own with design details, add in all of the important info, link your registry, and even customize your domain!

track preferences

Whether you’re offering your guests their choice of entrees or collecting preferences, Riley & Grey’s system makes getting this info as seamless as possible. Plus, it’s 2023 and everyone has a dietary restriction. It’s important to collect all of that info ahead of time and get it to your caterer so they can plan accordingly.

send reminders and messages

Parking instructions, rain plans, transportation info, there are plenty of last-minute reminders that you’ll need to send to your guests. And while you could text them individually or start the group chat to end all group chats, how much easier would it be to just send a message through your wedding website? Riley & Grey makes sending reminders and messages easy and you can select exactly who to send them to.

mobile-compatible

Believe it or not, not all wedding websites are mobile-compatible, but Riley & Grey’s are! And, they even show you a preview of what your site will look like on mobile before you commit. Take it from us when we say a mobile site is the best way to stay in touch with your guests and make sure they actually see your messages.

say it online and in print

No matter how beautiful your wedding website is, Riley & Grey knows that there is something so special about holding your wedding invite in your hand or your friends and family receiving it in the mail. That’s why they offer elegant, luxury paper invites to match or compliment your wedding website.

Ready to make it official? Browse Riley & Grey’s unique design templates and start your wedding website for free.

Give @rileyandgrey a follow on Instagram for even more wedding inspo.

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We partnered with Riley & Grey to make sure building your wedding website is stress-free. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post We found the perfect wedding website–meet Riley & Grey appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Minted is known for their beautiful, modern, and customizable wedding invitations – so you can guess how excited we were to take a peek at their 2023 collection. Not only do they offer a variety of styles of invitation suites, but also have all new save the dates available! From announcing your big day to your RSVPs, Minted Weddings has you covered, including helping your create your own complementary wedding website.

Check out their new designs and see what unique stationary by Minted would be the perfect fit for your wedding day!

Just got engaged? Share your date with a custom save the date!

Just picked the perfect venue but don’t know where to start with your wedding planning? Start with a cute and creative Save the Date. From modern and refined designs to playful colored patterns – there’s something for every style of bride! Plus, Minted is offering 25% off for your Save the Dates with code: CHICKS25

There are so many details you can customize with any collection from Minted, including the font, shape, and color palette of your design. Take a peek at these envelope and wax seal embellishments available to add-on!

Invitation suites for any aesthetic

Whether you’re a glamorous, chic, or nontraditional bride there’s a collection of wedding invitations that will perfectly suit your style! From colorful floral patterns to gold-gilded classic styles Minted’s wedding collection offers a wide variety of customizable invites. In addition to their gorgeous new line of invitation suites, Minted offers Flat, Foil-Pressed, Letterpress, and Gloss-Press options you can add to each design.

Not only does Minted create elegant, beautiful wedding invitations, but they also offer other custom paper goods including escort cards, seating charts, and wedding signage for your big day. Check out these cute reception menus!

Minted makes building a wedding website a dream!

Once you’ve created your dream save the dates and wedding invitation suite, you can create your own complementary wedding website hosted by Minted. Minted’s east to create sites make it easy to manage RSVPS, share your gift registries, post wedding updates and more! You can even match your invitations to your website design and vice versa – making it truly simple to create a beautifully tied together wedding.

Share your gorgeous new website with friends and family via your own custom QR code! You can add your code to your save the dates or wedding invitations in a simple and subtle design.

Make memories with Minted’s new collection

Thank you to our sponsor Minted for sharing their 2023 wedding collection! Minted is the perfect destination for any bride’s style of wedding paper goods. From save the dates, wedding invitation suites, to custom wedding websites – they offer everything you need to start planning your dream wedding aesthetic. Be sure to follow Minted on Instagram to see their new design releases and more!

The post Free wedding websites + new wedding stationery from Minted appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Wedding invitation suites are getting more extra by the day…and we’re not mad at it. After all, your invitation suite sets the tone for the rest of your wedding. You want it to feel special, to get your guests excited about everything that’s to come. With that being said, you can’t just lick the envelopes. Why? Well, there’s COVID (obviously), but also how much cuter does everything look with a wax seal? And lately, we’ve seen couples and stationary designers getting creative with their seals. We’ve seen everything from clear wax with pressed flowers to wax-sealed silk ribbon and more. Still not convinced? Well, keep scrolling…you will be.

what you need to know before you seal

Invitation suites with wax seals and other special packaging should be hand canceled, meaning they don’t get sent through the usual sorting machine. This costs a bit more, but trust us when we say it’s worth it!

the right tools

While many stationary designers offer wax seals as part of their invitation suite packages, it’s a pretty simple DIY if you feel so inclined. And if you’re feeling extra crafty, did you know that Wedding Chicks has a ton of gorgeous FREE PRINTABLES, including entire invitation suites, save the dates, RSVP cards, and all?! Etsy has a great selection of wax seal options that range from cute images like floral designs to custom monograms. There are also soooo many options when it comes to wax. You can do it the old-fashioned way by dripping wax from a wax stick that’s essentially a candle. Or, for time and efficiency’s sake, you can purchase wax sticks that fit in your traditional glue gun. There are also companies out there that can make custom wax seal stickers that you simply peel and place. And the colors…don’t even get us started. Wax is available in not just any color you can imagine, but any finish, from pearlescent to metallic and everything in between. So find the combo that speaks to you and seal away. Now here’s a little inspiration…

^{Photo/Wax Seal: Tidewater and Tulle}

^{Photo/Wax Seal : Claudia Mayorga via Pinterest}

^{Photo: Pinterest}

^{Photo/Wax Seal: Fiona Supply Shop via Etsy}

^{Photo: ❀Ᏸʅυҽ 🌹 Ꮢσʂҽ❀ II via Pinterest}

^{Photo/Wax Seal: The Vintage Inkwell}

^{Photo/Wax Seal: Empress Stationery}

^{Photo: Jessica van der Marel Photography}

^{Photo/Wax Seal: Papira via The Lane}

^{Photo/Wax Seal: Emerald Pine Studio via Etsy}

^{Photo: Allen Tsai Photography}

^{Photo/Wax Seal: Sea and Paper Creative Studio}

^{Photo/ Wax Seal: Shine Wedding Invitations}

The post These wax seals have the Wedding Chicks seal of approval appeared first on Weddingchicks.

There are a few things that really make marriage feel official: your first ring tan line, when your marriage license arrives in the mail, and seeing your official monogram for the first time. A monogram is the perfect visual representation of your two names (and lives) growing together into one beautiful composition. But how do you get a monogram? It all starts with a graphic designer and Penelope from DesigningLove is our absolute fave!

The Process

According to Penelope, the perfect monogram captures so much more than just your initials, it reflects both of your unique personalities and your relationship as a whole. She describes her aesthetic as “modern, elegant simplicity with a minimalist vibe and sophistication”, a vibe we can all get down with. First, she meets with her couples to get to know them. She also learns about your wedding design so that she can incorporate that into your monogram too. Then the real work begins. She carefully crafts two design concepts and works closely with the couple to select the one that fits them best and iron out the details like the font. Once it’s finalized, your monogram is digitized and yours to keep to use for the rest of your happily ever after.

Where To Use Your Monogram

Once you have your custom monogram, there is an endless amount of ways to use it. Of course, our first thoughts are of all the ways you can use it to personalize your wedding details. From your invitation suites (envelopes, wax seals, cards, etc.) to signage, monograms are a great way to make your wedding design truly unique. But, there are plenty of fun uses for it long after you say, “I do.” Here are some of our favorite ways to use a custom monogram:

• Embossed on invitations and thank you letters

• Wax seal for invitations and thank you letters

• Embossed on cocktail napkins for the bar

• Enlarged on a wedding welcome sign

• Custom cake topper

• Embroidered on towels, sheets, and other linens

• Embroidered on a shirt, tie, or pocket square as a wedding or anniversary gift

• Embroidered on a handkerchief, robe, or button-up shirt for getting ready looks

  

The possibilities are endless! All you have to do is send the digital file to your favorite vendors and let the magic begin…

What’s Included In The Monogram Suite?

In addition to your custom monogram file, couples will also receive their individual names in a matching font/style. This ensures cohesive branding throughout your wedding and any event after. Use them for anniversary parties, custom stationery, and other special gifts along the way. This package also includes a style guide so you know how to format any other designs for your wedding (and after). Schedule your custom consultation with Penelope today and let DesigningLove take your wedding to the next level with a custom monogram suite.

Check out their blog and follow @designinglove.co on Instagram to see all the ways you can use your custom monogram.

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We partnered with DesigningLove to bring you this hot tip on customizing your wedding. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post Everyone Needs A Wedding Monogram And DesigningLove Is Here To Help appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Wedding planning can be as overwhelming as it is fun, but it doesn’t need to be. The key is keeping everything organized. Back in the day, couples would keep a wedding planning binder, but it’s 2022 and we’ve made everything a whole lot easier. Did you know that you can plan your entire wedding right here on Wedding Chicks? Yep! From hosting your wedding website and checklist to tracking your RSVPs and your budget, we’ve got you covered from every angle. We even have printable wedding invitations. Oh, and did we mention, it’s all FREE?! Let’s get into it!

Your Wedding Checklist

Don’t even know where to start with your wedding plan? We do! And we know every possible step in between. In fact, we’ve outlined exactly what you need to do and when you need to do it. No more guesswork! Simply consult your personalized wedding checklist that’s generated automatically on your profile and check off each line item as you get it finished. It’s that easy.

Wedding Budget Tracker

Budgeting for your wedding is definitely one of the more stressful tasks. It can be hard to know how much to allocate to each part of your wedding. So, leave it to us! Simply enter your budget and we’ll tell you exactly how much you should spend on every line item from flowers to jewelry and everything in between. You can even track payments as you go and edit your budget in real-time if something ends up costing more or less than you originally estimated.

Your Wedding Vendor Dream Team

Vendors are the backbone of any wedding. They are the pros that are responsible for bringing your vision to life. We have a database full of the top wedding vendors from all over the world. When you sign up for our wedding planning tools, we automatically recommend vendors in your area that work within your budget. With just the click of a button, you can easily request quotes and correspond with vendors directly through your online Wedding Chicks portal.

Guest List & RSVP Tracking

It can be hard to keep track of RSVPs, especially when they’re coming in via snail mail, text, DM, and e-mail. Start by creating your guest list directly on your Wedding Chicks planning portal and track RSVPs right there. You can also allow your guests to RSVP online through your wedding website and then we’ll do all the work for you, including giving them menu options or asking other important questions like if they have any food allergies.

Build Your Wedding Website

These days, every couple needs a wedding website. It’s the perfect place to include important information that didn’t fit on your invitation suite. It is also super helpful for staying in touch with your guests and giving them any important updates like alerting them about a postponement or COVID-19 restrictions/regulations. We have a huge selection of beautiful templates to choose from, we’re sure that you’ll find the perfect one to coordinate with your wedding design. Include everything from links to your registry and information on hotel blocks and transportation, and allow guests to RSVP right then and there.

Free Printables

We have a beautiful line of free printables that coordinate with our wedding websites to create a cohesive overall experience for you and your guests. Print everything from save the dates and full invitation suites to table numbers and other miscellaneous signage. Not only will all of your stationery look great, this easy DIY could save you thousands!

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today for your wedding planning profile and get started! Oh, and make sure you sign up for our weekly newsletter as well. We’ll send you the newest wedding ideas, tips & advice, DIY ideas, and some sweet discounts from the best brands in the wedding industry!

For even more wedding inspo, be sure to give us a follow @weddingchicks on Instagram!

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The post Did You Know You Can Plan Your Wedding Right Here On Wedding Chicks? appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Money can be a tricky topic for a couple to discuss, but being on the same page financially is paramount to a lifetime of happiness. Planning and saving together for your big day is great practice for navigating finances in your marriage. 

1. Discuss your priorities 

Your idea of the perfect wedding may differ from that of your partner’s. For example, a “small wedding” might mean 20 guests to you and 100 guests to your partner. Have a conversation regarding your priorities early on in the planning process to ensure you are on the same page and your budget is being allotted to the most important items for the two of you. Make a list of your “must-haves” and your “wants,” so when budget surprises appear, it’s easier to decide what can be cut and what each of you considers a “non-negotiable.” When everything on your wish list is viewed as essential, the costs can quickly spiral out of control. 

2. Set a budget 

This may sound like a no-brainer, but knowing your absolute top limit for spending allows you to set a savings goal. While weddings can be a huge expense, some metrics show the average cost actually decreasing as couples become more cost-conscious and shift their priorities. Work with your partner to come up with a total amount you are willing to spend on your big day. If someone in your family is assisting with the wedding expenses, make sure you understand the budget they have in mind as well. When it comes to family and finances, assumptions can fly, so make sure everyone is comfortable with the final arrangement. Once you’ve established your budget, you can use a budgeting tool such as Monifi to monitor your savings and wedding expenses. Monifi allows you to create multiple visual goals and tracks your progress, so you can keep close tabs on how your savings stacks up to your wedding expenses. In fact, Monifi can even categorize your purchases under umbrella terms, such as “catering”, “DJ”, or “wedding attire,” so you can track the total amount spent in each category and of course, as a whole. 

3. Create a timetable 

As you make decisions on the venue, catering, cake, and attire, create a timetable of when each deposit and payment is due. Is the final venue payment due before the florist? Keeping track of your deadlines will aid in managing your budget and cue you to make your payments on time. 

4. Make a monthly savings plan 

Once your budget and timeline are set, work backward to calculate how much you’ll need to save per month or week to meet your goal. Then make a savings commitment and get started! 

5. Rein in miscellaneous costs 

Throughout the planning process, stick to your budget, especially with small expenses. Big expenses like the food and venue are easy decisions to stick to once they’re made, but small decisions, like centerpieces, décor, favors, etc. can quickly add up to be budget busters. Stay true to your priorities and keep your spending in check.

We partnered with Monifi to bring you these hot $$$ saving tips for your big day. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post 5 Tips On How To Save For Your Wedding appeared first on Weddingchicks.