Getting Physical: The Art of the Invitation
Tap It!
By Casey Kettleson
in Fashion Features
on February 04, 2010
With New York Fashion Week only a few days away, invitations to events have been pouring into the mailbox more than usual. While most feature simple yet elegant black text printed on relatively thick cardstock, the really good invitations excite and captivate the imagination instantaneously - giving a glimpse of what’s to come...
Whether created to resemble a long-lost postcard, sent as a series of screen-prints, or mailed as a wax-sealed love letter, invitations have the ability to set the mood for any event. For fashion week, show invitations often give guests a taste of the collection’s inspiration or overall artistic direction.
Not to knock the use of digital e-vites (which are admittedly much more cost and time effective), but they simply cannot communicate the same feeling that an actual invitation can. An invitation is the first point of contact between the host and the guest. It’s an indication of the care that’s going to be taken with the event. From the materials to the feel of the ink and fonts used, everything about the invitation effects the guest’s perceptions of the event, which in turn directly effects their willingness to attend.
While physical invitations are primarily reserved for more formal events such as weddings or holiday parties, why not send one for your next award show party, rooftop beer tasting, or LOST soirée? Sure they’ll cost you more than a free e-vite will (psst, Bell'Invito stationary is on sale on Gilt Groupe today!), but if done correctly, the right invitation could lead to the best night of your entire life… Well, perhaps that’s going a bit too far, but seriously, who doesn’t want to get a little physical every now and then?
Do you love getting/receiving invitations? Where is your favorite stationary store?