Invitation Trends (1)

These days South Asian couples have a plethora of choices when it comes to finding the perfect wedding invitation. Options range from the simple invitation with one religious symbol to the elaborate scrolls and multi-pocket invitations. Wondering what the newest trends are in South Asian invitations … read on!

Sharon Patel of Patel Printing Plus says that the most popular styles these days are “Fusion-style East-West invitations that incorporate elements of Indian tradition with the richness of western quality papers and fine inks.” Couples are recognizing the best way to hold on to their roots but to take advantage of Western quality. Because couples are holding so many events, in true South Asian fashion, there is also a need for multiple event cards. For this reason Sharon mentions that invitations with pockets to hold cards for all of the different occasions are extremely popular. According to Nandini Shah from Graphic Arts Unlimited, fabric scrolls are also extremely sought out by couples.

While our Western counterparts often choose the color white for their invitations, South Asian invitations provide the opportunity to choose from a multitude of colors. You no longer have to stick with the traditional maroon (unless you want to of course!). Sharon tells us that rich metallic colors with a touch of sparkle are the most appealing to couples today. She has also noticed an emerging trend in colors like turquoise and fuchsia, sometimes in combination with metallic silver. Nandini points out that very traditional cards are out but modern cards still definitely have a hint of Indian flavor, whether that is through the color, the symbols or the ink colors.

These days everyone wants his or her wedding to be different and unique. The first step in achieving this is a unique wedding invitation. A popular method for couples who come from different religious backgrounds is the blending of their two religious symbols on the invitation. An example is combining Ganesh on a Jewish star for a Hindu/Jewish wedding. Monograms are also a popular way to make your invitations more unique.

Sharon suggests that invitations can also be customized by design and graphic choices such as the typeface, borders, symbols, color of ink and even the shape of the invitation. A layered design such as translucent vellum is great for adding dimension as well as the use of photographs or watermarked designs tinted in the background of the invitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should we begin researching wedding invitations?
Nandini (Graphic Arts Unlimited): Couples should start researching wedding invitations at least 6 months prior to the wedding.

Should we order samples?
Sharon (Patel Printing Plus): Brides should always see actual samples of the printer's work to be sure that there is attention to quality and detail. They should also expect the printer to guarantee the quality of their work and stand behind their product. A printer should provide a proof for approval prior to printing.

When should we place the order?
Nandini: Invitations should be ordered at least 3 months before the wedding.

Should we order extra invitations? How many?
Sharon: We recommend that couples order 25 extra invitations for the inevitable last minute invitees and/or errors in addressing. Allow 1 couple per invitation and adult children (18 and over) should receive their own invitation. Also include those "obligatory" invitations that need to be sent to friends and family abroad who may not be able to attend. It's always less expensive to order a few extras with your order than to have to place a small additional order later!
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Contributions to this article by Patel Printing Plus and Graphic Arts Unlimited