Styling your Wedding Invitation

You see them all over Instagram and Pinterest. Gorgeous styled invitation suites with the prettiest of flowers, ribbons and details. But how do you end up with your invite so perfectly photographed? What’s needed? Who styles it? When does this happen and how much time is needed? These beautiful photos take a bit longer than just throwing some things together, so I thought I’d share some of my favorite tips for those of you in the process of planning your wedding!

Tip #1:  Send your invitation suite to your photographer ahead of time
I always ask my couples to do this so I can see it ahead of time and plan ahead as well. Sometimes I photograph it the day of, sometimes the day before and sometimes the day after. The perk of photographing it the day after is I can sometimes use leftover flowers from your wedding day for the perfect touch of meaningful details (and without being rushed!) But, sometimes your planner styles the invite (such a treat!) so if your photographer has it ahead of time, they can get working on it when the timing is best.

Tip #2:  Send your photographer two full copies
It may sound like overkill, but having two copies allows for ample options! That way I can photograph the front and  the back of the envelope at the same time if it is custom addressed or stamped. Sometimes invites have a front and back as well, so two copies helps see the full suite in one photo.

Tip #3:  Plan to give your photographer time
Styling is such a fun part of my job, but it’s not as simple as just throwing it all on a backdrop. There’s an art to it, and every detail has to balance the image well. So, planning for the time needed in your timeline makes for those extra gorgeous photos. All photographers need different amounts of time, so be sure to ask them, as they’ll be happy to help you plan well for this! And if your planner is styling the suite, that may cut down on some time so that’s something to account for as well.

Tip #4:  Give your photographer meaningful details
Sometimes I style invites with things I have on hand, but most often I love to incorporate details that actually mean something to you! To me, it’s better to have details that mean something than just having “pretty” things. If there are ribbons on your bouquet, give some extra to your photographer. Have a favorite flower in your bouquet? Arrange for the florist to have a few extras for the photographer. Have a special ring dish or piece of jewelry? Did you use fun stamps? All of these are great additions!

Tip #5:  Give your photographer all of the stationary
Do you have a menu and place cards? A save-the-date? RSVP cards? A custom map or wax seal? We want it all!

Have a question I didn’t answer? Email me, as I’d love to hear from you!

Learn more about wedding photography & wedding heirlooms

Amy Nicole Photography has been documenting stories of life and love for 10 years. Amy is based in Charlottesville, VA but travels all over Virginia and the US for simply elegant weddings. She strives to create timeless, genuine and effortless photos for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. 

Invitation credits: Bluestocking Calligraphy // Minted // The Write Impression // Wide Eyes Paper Co. // Jodi Macfarlan Calligraphy // Farmstead Design Studio // Minted // Bluestocking Calligraphy // For Love of Love