Choosing Paper and Finishes for Wedding Stationery

Guests handle your invitation before they read a word of it. The weight, texture and finish set the tone for the whole day, whether that is soft and romantic, modern and minimal, or rich and traditional.

Paper weight is measured in GSM (grams per square metre). Everyday flyers are often printed on lighter stock, while invitations and cards usually feel better on a heavy card, commonly somewhere around 300 GSM or more. Heavier card feels more substantial and stands up well in the post.

If you want an extra-thick, luxurious feel, ask about double-thick or layered options.

Smooth stocks give crisp detail and strong colour. Uncoated stocks have a softer, more natural feel and are lovely for handwritten notes and calm, organic styles. Textured stocks add visible character and pair well with simple layouts, because the paper itself becomes part of the design.

Letterpress presses the design into soft paper for a deep, tactile impression. Foil adds a metallic shine to names, borders or details. Embossing raises part of the design from the surface. Raised or gloss effects add subtle contrast against matte paper.

You do not need to use a special finish everywhere. A single detail, such as foil on names or an embossed monogram, often has the biggest impact.

Start with the feel you want, then choose a paper to match. Keep your layout simple if the paper is highly textured, and give detailed designs a smooth surface. If you can, see samples in person before you decide, as colours and textures look different on screen.