The Perils of D.I.Y. Invitation Kits

by Lisa Davis-Treleaven of Big Orange Designs

As you browse the aisles of your big box business supply store (and sometimes even your local and equally gigantic grocery store!), you might spot the latest in do-it-yourself wedding invitation kits. Their neatly packaged, trendy designs are so eye-catching, you think to yourself, 'I can do that!' I'll save us a money by doing it myself and they'll look fantastic!

WARNING: Unless you have a degree in 'printer malfunction science' with a minor in 'text layout' or don't mind losing sleep and sprouting a few grey hairs... These kits are not for the faint of heart!

Here are some common complaints we've heard from couples just like you, hoping to have beautiful stationery and save money along the way. (After all, who doesn't love to save money?

A) The printing goes horribly wrong. Either the text is not lining up correctly, the paper jams, your printer has decided to choose this moment to leave nasty little ink blobs on the corners, or worse, you can't seem to create the perfect colour for your font.

B) You end up going back to the store for MORE kits after ruining the first batch, and now you've no longer saved yourself any money, let alone the energy and time you've put into this.

C) You go back to the store to find the kit you've been using is discontinued. Yes, this has happened and we received the phone call from the panic-stricken bride.

D) You buy the kit, and after realizing how frustrating the whole process is, take it to your local print shop to see if they will do it for you, only to find they won't touch them with a ten foot pole. Yes, we got that phone call too!

With the budget conscious 'do-it-yourselfer' in mind, we have introduced a brand new line of wedding invitations priced to compete with the big box retail store kits.

Introducing… D.I.Y.? Why?

This is a brand new line of wedding invitations that are sharp, savvy and will save you money, without the hassle of a D.I.Y. project. Choose from many different patterns that are available in a wide variety of colours and you can even choose your font! Your invitation set includes a 5x7 panel style invitation, with matching RSVP and BOTH envelopes.

As planning a wedding involves so many decisions, choices and demands on the pocket book, we feel this is a fabulous new alternative for couples who want fabulous stationery without breaking the bank.

Styles and options can be seen online by clicking here.

Lisa Davis-Treleaven is an Owner and full-time Designer at Big Orange Designs, a custom invitation and design company. Big Orange Designs is reviewed for brides in TheWeddingRing.ca.