Invitations: Frequently Asked Questions
The perfect invitation sets the tone of your special event! Let the excitement grow in the weeks leading up to the date with an eye catching ribbon, the perfect poem or an exquisite embellishment. We are proud to carry truly unique creations from the most talented designers. Each product line offers hundreds of textures, papers, colors and other finishing details to create your customized look.
Before ordering, here are answers to some important frequently asked questions!
Are appointments recommended?
Yes. By scheduling an appointment, you sit down with the owner and designer of Magnificent Milestones, receive one-on-one attention for any and all questions, sip champagne while you browse and receive a parting {paper} gift. To schedule your appointment, call 312.226.7777 or email us at invitations@magnificentmilestones.com.
How many invitations should I order?
You will need one invitation for each couple, family or individual that you invite. Invitations come in sets of 25. We recommend rounding up your order if you are unsure of the exact number of guests, which allows for anyone that you may have forgotten or would like to add. It is much less expensive to order extras than placing a second order later.
What is the minimum number of invitations I can order?
The minimum number of invitations is typically 25 or 50.
Can I change the font styles, colors and/or designs of the invitations?
Yes. Fonts, colors and/or designs can be changed at no additional charge. We view each design in the albums as a sample. The options are endless!
What are the different printing techniques? How do they differ?
Engraving is the most formal and expensive means of printing, it results in raised type with a matte finish on the front of the paper and a bruised back appearance on the back.
Thermography is a less expensive alternative to engraving. It produces a similar raised effect but with a shiny finish and no bruising on the reverse side.
Letterpress is stylistically the opposite of engraving. Inked type on the printer’s plate is stamped onto the front of the paper, produced a pressed appearance. Letterpress has gained popularity in the last decade and varies in cost (mainly depending on paper thickness).
Offset is crisp, flat printing that is fast and affordable.
When should I order my invitations?
We encourage looking early! Please feel free to come by anytime during your engagement. That said, if not sooner, you should seriously look six months before the wedding and order five months before the wedding. This will ensure time for proofs, revisions, calligraphy, stuffing, stamping, etc.
What date should I use for my RSVP card?
RSVP (respondez s'il vous plait - the French phrase for 'please respond') dates should be set for at least three weeks prior to your wedding. Most caterers, venues or hotels require a final head count 14 days prior to a wedding. The extra week allows enough time for you to call those guests who have not responded and get a final head count and table list.
How do I let people know that it is an Adult Only reception?
While it is becoming more acceptable to include terminology in your invitation that discourages child attendance, such as "Adult Reception Immediately Following Ceremony," we encourage addressing your envelope to only those invited, such as “Mr. & Mrs. John Smith” rather than “The Smith Family.” If you feel that there are guests that may not identify, you can also add a “Number of Adults Attending” on the RSVP card rather than “”Number of Guests Attending.”
Will I receive a proof before my invitation order is printed?
Yes. You will receive a PDF proof via email for approval after your order is complete. You can continue to make changes to the proof until the design is perfect. Once we have your approval, it will go into production.
When should the wedding invitations be mailed?
Your wedding invitations should be mailed 6-8 weeks before your wedding. If you are having a destination wedding or holding your wedding over a holiday weekend, you should send your invitations 8-10 weeks before.
How much will postage be?
Once you have addressed your invitations, be sure to take one complete set to the post office and have it weighed and measured. This will guarantee that you have enough postage on each envelope. Remember to purchase stamps for the RSVP envelopes, as well as the invitations. Keep in mind that all square invitations, regardless of size, require more postage.