Design w/Chon: Fabulous Victorian-Inspired Invite

Here's a sneak peak to a wedding invite that is in the works. I get more and more excited as I work on it, because I continually get new ideas on how to improve upon the design and make it truly unique for this soon-to-be wedding couple. Can you believe this invite cover design has taken me over 6 hours, and it's not even done... well, it's true. Everything you see here is custom, from the illustrated portraits of the couple to the placement of each letter, word and spacing. The act of balancing all these elements is an art form, and it takes a trained eye. Yes I know, tedious, but well worth it for the end result.

My inspiration for this invite design is based on the Classic, Bold European Moodboard. My client loves the Victorian Era and tradition, but we didn't want it to feel old, but reflect their young, fun personalities. I discussed with her cameo portraits and calligraphy that will bring the Victorian era that she seeks; however, I had to bring my design flair with bold patterns, graphic-artsy typography, and break the mold of tradition with this not-so-standard invite cover design. I also brought in other iconic elements of this genre with an old key and an abstract heart locket. It's a blend of sophistication and whimsy with a nod to past influences. Who knew an invite can say so much? To read the whole back story and inspiration for this design, click here.

Invite Cover Design (pt. 1)

Classic, Bold European Moodboard

{Invite & Moodboard designed by Chon}

I plan to make this whole wedding invite into a zig zag fold with 3 main panels. The top panel is going to feature the cover design with probably some more modifications, but the general look and design is set in stone. The middle panel will contain all the introductory, pertinent info from the bride's parents names along with wedding location and time. And the last 3rd panel will include a custom map with a perforated RSVP postcard. The printing technique that I want to use is black foil stamping onto an uncoated, light grey letterpress paper. I still need to incorporate an Emerald Green color into the overall design, and the presentation of the invite, but I think it's coming along nicely for now.