How to Choose the Right Paper for Your Wedding Invitations

Wedding paper is more than just a medium, it sets the tone for your wedding suite. Ofelia Botella explains, “The feel, weight, and texture of your paper communicates luxury before guests even see your design.”

Popular paper types:

• Cotton & handmade papers: Soft, luxurious, ideal for fine-art illustration.

• Linen textured: Subtle weave adds elegance without being busy.

• Vellum: Transparent overlays create depth and layering.

• Recycled or FSC-certified: Eco-friendly options that don’t compromise beauty.

Tips for choosing paper:

• Consider your printing method—letterpress requires thick, soft papers; digital allows thinner options.

• Layering vellum or envelope liners can add tactile interest.

• Match paper color with your palette—cream, blush, or ivory are classic choices.

FAQs

1. How heavy should invitation paper be?
   Typically 250–350 gsm for a luxurious feel.

2. Can vellum be used for all cards?
   Best for overlays or accent pieces; too much can feel flimsy.

3. Are textured papers harder to print on?
   Slightly, but professional printers adjust for it.

4. Does recycled paper look cheap?
   Not if it’s high-quality, handmade, or cotton blend.

5. Can I mix textures in one suite?
   Yes, layering adds sophistication.

6. How do I know if my paper suits my design?
   Request swatches and print proofs before ordering.

7. Should envelopes match invitation paper?
   Matching or complementary tones creates cohesion.

8. Can foil stamping work on textured paper?
   Yes, but test samples first—very deep textures may resist foil adhesion.

9. Is there a best paper for watercolor illustration?
   Cotton or cold-press papers retain pigment beautifully.

10. How far in advance should I order paper?
    At least 4–6 weeks before printing to allow for sourcing and testing.