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Engagement Party Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts You Need to Know

September 5, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Planning an engagement party is an exciting milestone in a couple’s journey toward marriage. It is a time to celebrate their love with family and friends, setting the tone for the upcoming wedding festivities. However, like any event, there are certain do’s and don’ts to consider to ensure the party is enjoyable, memorable, and respectful to everyone involved. In this month’s blog, we lay out the perfect engagement party etiquette to follow.

Shop: Truly Simple Engagement Announcement

The Do’s

1. Set a Budget:

One of the first steps in planning an engagement party is setting a budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. This will help guide your decisions regarding the venue, guest list, catering, and decorations. Remember, this is a celebration of your engagement, not a mini-wedding, so keep things simple and within your means.

2. Create a Guest List:

When creating your guest list, consider the size of the venue and your budget. It’s important to invite close family members and friends who have supported your relationship. Additionally, it’s generally expected that anyone invited to the engagement party will also be invited to the wedding. Make sure to communicate clearly if your wedding plans are still in the works and guest numbers are yet to be finalized.

3. Plan a Toast:

An engagement party is a great opportunity for the couple, or their parents, to express their gratitude and share their excitement. Plan a heartfelt toast to thank your guests for their support and to celebrate the love that brought you together. Keep it light, joyful, and focused on the future!

4. Thank Your Guests:

One of the most thoughtful ways to express gratitude to your guests for attending your engagement party is by sending a handwritten note or Thank You card. It shows that you took the time and effort to acknowledge their presence and contribution to your special day.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Overplan:

An engagement party should be more relaxed than the wedding itself. Avoid overplanning or making the event too formal. The goal is to have fun and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Keep the atmosphere light, and don’t stress over every detail.

2. Don’t Expect Gifts:

While some guests may choose to bring gifts, it’s important not to expect them. Traditionally, engagement parties are more about celebrating the couple’s commitment than showering them with presents. If guests do bring gifts, make sure to express your gratitude and send thank-you notes afterward.

3. Don’t Rush It:

It’s tempting to celebrate your exciting news right away, but taking time to plan ensures the party will be well-organized and memorable. Rushing can lead to unnecessary stress, overlooked details, and a less-than-ideal experience for both you and your guests. Give yourselves a few weeks, or even months, to enjoy the engagement first.

Shop: Bubbly Cheers – Engagement Party Invitation

An engagement party is the first of many celebrations leading up to your wedding. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your party is a joyous occasion that everyone will remember fondly. Focus on the love you share and the excitement of what’s to come, and your engagement party will be a success!

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

The Etiquette of Asking Someone to Be Your Best Man or Maid of Honor

July 9, 2024 / / 0 Comments

Asking someone to be your best man or maid of honor is a significant and heartfelt moment in the wedding planning process. These roles come with responsibilities and a special place in your wedding journey, so it’s essential to approach the request with thoughtfulness and respect. Proper etiquette can ensure that this request is received warmly and joyfully. In this blog, we’ll explore the key aspects of asking someone to be your best man or maid of honor, from timing and presentation to the message itself.

Shop: Champagne Will You Be My – Scratch Off Card – Maid of Honor

Timing and Thoughtfulness

Timing is crucial when asking someone to take on the role of best man or maid of honor. Ideally, you should ask your chosen individuals as soon as you have set a wedding date and finalized your wedding party plans. This gives them ample time to prepare for their responsibilities and to be involved in the planning process. Being thoughtful about the timing shows that you respect their time and commitment. Additionally, consider the person’s current life circumstances. If they are going through a busy or stressful period, approach the subject with sensitivity and understanding.

Shop: Eat, Drink, Suit Up – Scratch Off Card – Best Man

Presentation and Personalization

How you ask someone to be your best man or maid of honor can make a big difference. A personal, heartfelt approach is always best. Start with a face-to-face conversation or a video call if distance is an issue. Follow up with a personalized card or a small gift to make the moment even more special. The card should express your genuine feelings and why you’ve chosen them for this honor.

For example, share specific memories or qualities that make them the perfect choice. This personalized touch not only conveys your sincerity but also strengthens the bond between you and your chosen best man or maid of honor. We also recommend choosing a design that reflects your wedding theme or the personality of the person you are asking. A custom card shows that you’ve put thought and effort into the request, making it a keepsake that they can treasure long after the wedding day.

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

How Many Invitations Do You Need to Order for Your Wedding?

June 3, 2024 / / 0 Comments

We all know that sorting out a guest list can be one of the trickiest parts of planning a wedding. But once you’ve jumped that hurdle, you can start enjoying the fun stuff like booking your venue. However, when you order the invitations, your stationer will ask you how many you need. It might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be amazed at how many couples miscalculate and end up with a stack of extras or not nearly enough. So, here are a few pointers to keep in mind.

Shop: Guipure Invitation

Create Your Guest List

First and foremost, you need to finalize your guest list. This will give you a clear idea of how many people you want to invite. Keep in mind that you don’t need one invitation per guest, as many invitations will be for couples, families, or households. Start by listing out each household individually. Going the extra mile to ensure your list is accurate will save you time and stress later.

Related: learn more about special details to include in your wedding invitations here.

Factor in Couples and Families

Once you have your guest list, you probably by default assume that “total number of guests = total number of invitations”. That is not the case unless all of your guests are coming alone. Therefore, separate it into households. For example, if you’re inviting your friend John and his wife, that’s one invitation. If you’re inviting a family of four, that’s still just one invitation. This step will significantly reduce the total number of invitations needed.

Shop: Decorative Floral Frame Invitation with Pocket and Backer

Consider Additional Invitations

It’s smart to order a few extra invitations for many reasons. Mistakes happen when addressing or mailing invitations, and you might remember someone you forgot to add to the list at the last minute. Many couples also like to keep a few pristine copies as keepsakes or for photography. Plus, you might need to send invitations to key vendors like your photographer, planner, or officiant, ensuring they have all the event details and a keepsake from your special day.

Calculate the Total

Once you have your list of households and have accounted for extras, you can calculate the total number of invitations. A good rule of thumb is to order about 10-15% more than your initial count. For instance, if your list includes 100 households, consider ordering around 110-115 invitations to cover all bases. This also allows you to experiment with creative ideas for bridal shower invitations, helping to start the celebration on the right note.

Related: learn more about bridal shower invitation ideas to start the celebration here.

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Going the Extra Mile: Special Details to Include in Your Wedding Invitations

May 7, 2024 / / 0 Comments

When it comes to planning your wedding, every detail counts. Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will get into your special day, so why not go the extra mile to make them truly memorable and informative? A standard wedding invitation ensemble typically includes the main invitation card, a response card, and a reception card with directions and other important instructions. Including additional details in your wedding invitations will ensure your guests have all the information they need and allow them to plan accordingly. Here are some practical tips and details to include in your ensemble.

Shop: Blooming Pastels Accommodation Card

Map Card

A special and important detail to consider including in your wedding invitations is a map or directions to the venue. This can be especially helpful for out-of-town guests who may not be familiar with the area. Including a map serves a practical purpose and adds a courteous element to your invitations.

Accommodations Card

Including an accommodations card is a highly thoughtful gesture for your guests, especially those coming from out-of-town or out-of-state. Providing information on recommended hotel accommodations makes it easier for your guests to find a place to stay near the wedding venue. It’s a considerate touch that shows you care about their comfort and convenience. We recommend including two to three hotel locations nearby so your guests have a range of options to choose from, catering to different preferences and budgets. Your far-traveling guests will surely appreciate this gesture of thoughtfulness, making their stay for your special day as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Shop: Captivating Wildflowers All ‘n One Invitation Folder

Website Card

It is acceptable to put the web address (URL) or QR code for your wedding website on your invite, but it’s recommended to place it in an inconspicuous area to avoid clutter. To prevent an overcrowded invitation, you can also consider moving this information to a separate enclosure card where you can provide a few details about your site, rather than just the URL. This allows you to share more information about your wedding, such as the schedule of events, travel recommendations, and a glimpse into your love story, making it a convenient resource for your guests.

At Home Card

This is a helpful addition to your wedding invitations, informing guests on how to contact you and address you, especially if there are changes post-wedding, like a hyphenated last name. You can also choose to include your cell phone numbers and email addresses on this card, providing guests with convenient ways to reach out to you.

Other Enclosures

It is common to have various wedding-related events planned, such as a rehearsal dinner, a pre-wedding event or activity, a post-wedding brunch, and more. It is important to note that these events should always be detailed on separate cards and never included on the main wedding invitation.

Related: “The Dos and Don’ts of Addressing Wedding Invitations”

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

From Suit to Vows: A Wedding Checklist for Grooms

November 1, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Preparing for your wedding day can feel overwhelming, with countless details to consider and tasks to complete. As a groom, it’s crucial to stay organized and ensure everything runs smoothly. That’s why we have created the ultimate wedding checklist for grooms, covering everything from selecting the perfect suit to exchanging heartfelt vows. With this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the planning process with ease and confidence, ensuring that your big day is nothing short of extraordinary.

Organize Your Wedding Planning

Before you think about anything else, the first step is to create and organize a wedding planning checklist with your soon-to-be spouse. This includes the budget, wedding date, guest list, venue, catering, and so on. It’s important to get this started at least 12 months before your wedding to ensure ample time for planning and reservations.

Another important matter to plan is researching and designing your wedding ensembles to ensure that every detail is perfect on your special day. By starting early, you have ample time to explore various design options, choose the perfect color scheme, and select the right paper quality. This allows you to incorporate your personal style and create invitations that truly reflect the theme and ambiance of your wedding. Additionally, planning ahead gives you the opportunity to thoroughly review and proofread the samples, ensuring that all the necessary information is included and there are no errors. This not only enhances the overall aesthetic of your wedding but also shows your attention to detail and care for your guests’ experience.

Related: “Creating a Cohesive Wedding Stationery Suite: Ideas and Inspiration”

Find the Perfect Suit

As a groom on your special day, you deserve the perfect suit to reflect your personal style while also complementing your bride. Whether you opt for a classic black tuxedo or a more contemporary three-piece ensemble, it’s essential to choose a style that is tasteful and matches the overall wedding theme. Schedule your measurements and fittings well in advance to allow for any necessary alterations, ensuring a perfect fit on your special day.

Next on the groom’s checklist is selecting and coordinating the groomsmen’s attire. After consulting with your partner about the desired color scheme and style, coordinate with the groomsmen to ensure they have accurate measurements and are aware of the dress code. Consider renting or purchasing matching accessories such as ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks to create a cohesive look. Remember to communicate all the necessary details to your groomsmen well in advance to avoid any last-minute mishaps.

Write Your Vows

As the wedding day approaches, it’s crucial to focus on the emotional aspects as well. Spend time writing your vows – heartfelt words that will resonate with your partner and make the ceremony truly memorable. Practice reciting them to ensure a smooth and heartfelt delivery. Consider personalizing the vows to reflect your unique relationship and shared journey. This is your opportunity to express your love and commitment, so take the time to craft vows that truly embody your feelings.

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

The Dos and Don’ts of Addressing Wedding Invitations

August 18, 2023 / / 0 Comments

Planning a wedding involves numerous details, and one of the most important aspects is addressing the invitations. Properly addressing wedding invitations not only adds a touch of elegance to your special day but also ensures that your guests receive their invitations in a timely manner. In this blog post, we will guide you through the dos and don’ts of addressing wedding invitations, helping you create a polished and organized invitation list.

Shop: Outlined Blooms Invitation – Clear Acrylic

Key Tips and Etiquette

When addressing wedding invitations, it is essential to follow certain etiquettes and guidelines to ensure that your invitations are received with warmth and appreciation.

  1. DO use formal titles when addressing the invitations, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Doctor. This shows respect and acknowledges the individual’s status.
  2. DO include the full names of each guest and avoid using abbreviations. This ensures clarity and avoids any confusion.
  3. DO use the correct phrase when referring to the wedding location. When the wedding is being held in a place of worship, “the honour of your presence” phrase is used. When held at other locations, “the pleasure of your company” is traditionally used.
  4. DO use a legible and elegant font or handwriting style for the addresses, ensuring that they are easy to read. Remember to spell out the full address, including street names and states, rather than using abbreviations. If all guests are local, the state may be omitted.
  5. DO write out the date and year. For example: “two thousand twenty-three”.

What to Avoid and Remember

On the other hand, there are a few don’ts to keep in mind when addressing wedding invitations.

  1. DON’T use nicknames or informal names unless specifically requested by the guest. Always use the formal names that the individuals prefer.
  2. DON’T use labels on the envelopes. Handwriting the addresses adds a personal touch and shows that you’ve taken the time and effort to address the invitation individually. Alternatively, using imprint techniques such as letterpress, embossing, or foil colors, can elevate the quality of your invitation.
  3. DON’T forget to double-check the addresses for accuracy. Mistakes in addresses can lead to invitations being undelivered or returned, causing unnecessary delays and confusion.
Shop: Perennial Love Invitation

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

The Art of Thank You Notes: Writing Gratitude in Style

June 5, 2023 / / 0 Comments

In a world dominated by digital communication, there is something truly special about receiving a handwritten thank you note. At Forever Friends, we believe that the art of writing notes is a timeless tradition that adds a personal touch to expressing gratitude. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of thank you notes, provide tips for writing them with style, and explore how our exquisite stationery can elevate your heartfelt messages, particularly when thanking your wedding guests.

Shop: Greenery Thank You

The Importance of Thank You Notes

A wedding is a joyous occasion filled with love, and expressing gratitude to your wedding guests is an essential part of the celebration. Sending thank you notes to those who attended your special day is not only polite but also a thoughtful gesture that shows your appreciation for their presence and support. At Forever Friends, we understand the significance of these thank you notes and are dedicated to helping you make them truly memorable.

Tips for Writing Thank You Notes

When writing thank you notes to your wedding guests, it’s important to personalize each message. Begin by addressing the recipient by name and expressing your heartfelt gratitude for their attendance and participation in your wedding. Reflect on specific moments or gestures that made their presence special and mention any thoughtful gifts they may have given. Remember to keep your tone warm and personal, as if you were speaking directly to the recipient.

Make your note extra special with a customized design to add a touch of charm to your heartfelt messages. We feature a wide range of exquisite stationery options, from elegant designs to custom-made creations, allowing you to find the perfect backdrop for your words of appreciation. You can also learn more tips for creating your wedding invitations and thank you notes here.

Shop: Ternary Photo Thank You Folder

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Invitation Cards You Need to Make Your Wedding Memorable

October 4, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Creative wedding invitations are what you need for your big day. It’s important that you’re part of the design process so that your wedding invitations expresses you and your partner’s own creative side. On that note, we will guide you in figuring out which pieces are essential if you’re ordering wedding stationery and how you can stay within your budget. So, read along to learn more!

Invitations You Need Before the Wedding

Several events are held before the wedding, so it’s essential to include details such as the location, date, time, and dress code. However, fitting this information for all of these events in one single invitation card can make it look busy. So, it is better to print separate cards for each event. Here are some of the invitation cards that you might need to print if you plan to have these events:

  • Invitation to an engagement party
  • Save-the-date card
  • Bridal shower invitations
  • Bridal shower thank-you cards
  • Invitation to a bachelor/bachelorette party
  • Invitation to a rehearsal dinner
  • Invitation to a welcome dinner

Related: “Ways to Make Your Wedding Invitation Design POP!”

The Wedding Invitation

A wedding invitation is the main invitation. Whether you plan to have a religious wedding, a destination wedding, or a formal wedding, your guests’ first impression of your wedding is made clear by the invitation card. Make sure you are happy with the theme, color, and other important details before it’s printed. Here are some things that must be included in your invitation suite:

  • Outer Envelope
  • Inner Envelope
  • Belly Band
  • Invitation Card
  • Reception Card
  • Directions/Map Card
  • Card for Hotel Accommodations

At the Wedding

These cards are optional, but if you wish to get these printed, then you can include the ceremony information as well as the names of your close family, friends, and guests. Here are some options you can explore:

  • Ceremony Program
  • Place Cards
  • Cards with Table Numbers
  • Menu Cards
  • Favor Tags

After the Wedding

If you wish to show your gratitude and appreciation to your guests, you can either give Thank-You cards at the end of the wedding or send it out within three weeks after the event. Please note that these cards are optional, but can leave a great impression on your guests.

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

How to Plan an Entertaining Wedding

March 11, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Tying the knot is an experience of a lifetime and has great importance to both the bride and the groom. You’ll show your love to your partner and begin an exciting marriage together. You want to have fun and want everything to go brilliantly when the day comes. However, you also want your guests to have a great time as well! So how do you make your wedding event one of the best they’ve ever been to? Learn more about how you can make your special day unforgettable and keep your guests entertained with the following guide.

Strategize Your Seating Chart

All of your relatives will most likely be present at your wedding, and this also includes your old friends, colleagues, and neighbors. You should take into account the relationships of your guests with each other when preparing the seating plan. Avoid the awkwardness of having two groups of strangers sitting in the same place and attempting small talk throughout the day. There’s nothing more uncomfortable than leaving someone stranded on their own at a table full of people they don’t know. Your friends will have a greater time when they’re sitting with mutual friends rather than your older relatives.  

It’s also highly recommended to use place cards! A place card with the guest’s name and seat number will help with organization – especially for bigger weddings. This way, you’ll have an easier time planning each table and no one will struggle trying to find their own seat.

Think Beyond the Dance Floor

It is known that almost every couple wants their wedding to be over-the-top glamorous. That’s why the majority focuses on hiring expensive entertainment like bands or singer-waiters – thinking only of the music and food. But there are some little things that can make your wedding memorable for everyone.

The wedding reception is where your guests will head after the wedding ceremony to enjoy some drinks and food. So, think about adding a sophisticated touch and creating something exceptional for your wedding that will WOW your guests. This can be anything from customized menu cards and napkins to personalized party favors.

The theme and atmosphere is just as important as the entertainment and will leave a lasting impression. Always think about your color scheme and any customizations catered towards your guests. You can also try to design your very own reception cards with a professional designer. Remember that organization is key when it comes to keeping your guests happy. While planning a wedding can be stressful, everyone will have more fun if you focus on the small details.

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Best Affordable Gift Ideas to Send With Wedding Invitations

February 16, 2022 / / 0 Comments

Gone are those days when people used to send classic invitations to invite people to their weddings. Trends have changed and today, some couples may send exquisite and thoughtful gifts along with their customized wedding invites.

We understand that finding the perfect budget-friendly gift can be quite stressful. Therefore, to help you out, we have listed some unique gift ideas that you can send with your fancy wedding invitations. Continue reading to learn more about these fantastic ideas for your friends and family members. 

Gift Idea #1 – Exotic Coffee or Tea  

Small tins of coffee and tea are both a simple and considerate gesture. There are a wide range of flavors that any wedding invitee would enjoy. Not to mention, they can easily be stored for longer periods of time.

Gift Idea #2 – Customized Face Mask 

While we haven’t completely recovered from COVID-19, that doesn’t mean that we will stop living our lives. So, if you’re planning your wedding amid the pandemic, then a customized face mask with a wedding invitation will be a remarkable gift. 

Gift Idea #3 – Baked Goods 

Nothing is better than a mouthwatering box of fresh baked goods! They are a sweet and tasty gesture that everyone loves. Whether its cupcakes or cookies, sending these with your wedding invitations is both a thoughtful and tempting gift. The best part is that you can also get your baked goods customized with your wedding date, initials, color scheme, and so on.

Gift Idea #4 – A Box of Delicious Chocolates  

There isn’t a single person who doesn’t like chocolates. Sending along a lovely box with various flavors will definitely do the trick. There are so many options to choose from when it comes to sweets. Similar to baked goods, you can also get these customized to your liking at local shops.

Gift Idea #5 – Fresh Seasonal Fruits

If you want to send something edible but prefer a healthier option, fresh seasonal fruits are always great. Try to include more than one variety so all of your invitees can enjoy it regardless of their taste. You can also make your fruit basket extra fancy with glitter tissue paper or complementary ribbons.

Learn More

Design your very own wedding invitation by contacting Forever Friends. We have everything from invitation and envelope embellishments to reception and response cards. Let us fulfill your wishes when it comes to creating a unique and beautiful wedding invitation for your special day.

*Please call Forever Friends for an appointment at (516) 721-2635 or email us at hello@foreverfriendsinvitations.com today. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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