Foil Press, Letterpress, and All the Glossy Details You Didn’t Know You Needed
There’s something about holding a beautifully crafted wedding invitation in your hands that just feels different.
Maybe it’s the way the light catches on the foil, the softness of the ribbon in your hand, or how the deep impressions of letterpress beg to be touched. Either way, these little details are what take your custom wedding stationery from “cute” to “utterly unforgettable.”
If you’re wondering why I’m so obsessed with the details like gloss, foil, letterpress, and all things luxe when it comes to wedding invitations, I’m about to get you on this design trend too.
Let’s break down these techniques and why they matter when it comes to setting the tone for your big day.
Foil Press: The Glow-Up Your Invitations Deserve
If you love a little shimmer and shine (but, not in a metallic 80’s eyeshadow way - Although, I do love this era!), foil press is your best friend. This technique uses heat and pressure to apply a thin layer of metallic or pigmented foil to the paper, creating a high-end finish that catches the light just right.
Why you’ll love it:
It adds an undeniable touch of elegance. Think gold, silver, rose gold, or even unexpected colors like copper or holographic - You choose!
It creates contrast against matte or textured papers, making your design pop.
Perfect for names, monograms, or subtle design accents that deserve a little extra attention.
Letterpress: A Love Letter to Texture
Letterpress printing is all about depth - Literally. This centuries-old technique uses a heavy press to imprint your design into thick, high-quality paper, creating a tactile, debossed effect that you can actually feel. What a great way to start the journey of your event!
Why it’s a must-have:
It gives your invitations an artisanal, handcrafted feel that’s impossible to replicate with digital printing - And, so satisfying to open!
Works beautifully on cotton or handmade papers for a truly bespoke finish.
Timeless, elegant, and effortlessly chic - Just like the vibe of your wedding.
Spot Gloss & Embossing: The Secret Sauce of Luxury Paper Goods
If you want to add even more dimension to your invitations, consider spot gloss and embossing. This technique elevates specific elements of your design like your names, a floral motif, or a modern monogram, by adding either a glossy raised effect (spot gloss) or a pressed, raised design (embossing).
Why I love it:
Creates a high-contrast effect against matte or textured papers.
Subtle but impactful - Perfect if you love modern, minimalist design with a hint of luxury.
Pairs beautifully with foil or letterpress for a multi-dimensional, high-end finish.
Why These Techniques Matter
Impressions are everything - Pun intended here. Your wedding invitation is the first impression for your guests to feel. Let them in on your style, your day and your intention for having them join you. An invitation with these delicate details will make your guests want to cherish them forever. Investing in techniques like foil press, letterpress, and spot gloss isn’t just about aesthetics - It’s about creating a tangible piece of your love story that your guests will truly feel in all the ways.
If you’re ready to bring your dream wedding stationery to life with all the luxe details, let’s chat. Because when it comes to wedding invitations, the little things make all the difference.