Paper Matters

Budget deficits, talks of a double dip recession and worker strikes -- definitely not a good news week! When all the news is so gloomy many people might feel that this year is not the year to have a Christmas party. But I think the opposite -- that this year, more than ever people need to get together to remember and celebrate all the things we have to be thankful for. Christmas parties don't need to be a lavish affair. Of course, we think an invitation is still a nice way to create anticipation. In a nod to the current climate we have introduced Christmas ready-write-to invitations in three different styles. The invitations sell in economical packs of 12 cards and envelopes for £15.

I am not one of those uber competitive Mums but when it comes to children’s party invitations, I know the other Mums are expecting a bit more from me. But like all Mums, I don’t want to spend a fortune on invitations for a 9 year old’s birthday but I still want something fun and a little different. Luckily, I found just the perfect invitations when I was in New York at Kate’s Paperie by Chicago based Snow & Graham. With their stylish imprintable cards all I had to do was add my information and print. DIY cards are all the rage is the US but I am wondering if they would have the same appeal in the UK. Let me know if you think we should be stocking more imprintable cards?

An invitation sets the tone of an event and lets guests know what to expect - as well as providing recipients with the necessary logistical information. With a die stamped EIIR cypher, gold bevelled edge and crisp printing on a heavy ivory card, the Royal Wedding invitation ensures there is no mistaking that this is a formal event of great importance.

Another invitation will follow for the dinner to be held for close friends and family of Prince William and Kate Middleton. I would expect something slightly less formal - but still quite classic - to reflect their individual style and the private nature of the event. At CLD we call these invitations "traditional with a twist".