You make have saw the term digital download, invitation template, or party printables when searching for your last party invitation? Today’s world of ordering invitations looks a bit different than it did 5 years ago.
Maybe you can relate…
5 years ago you would hop on Pinterest pick out your desired theme. Then you would head over to Etsy to find that perfect invitation to bring your theme to life. The shop that held said perfect invitation would handle all the editing for you, print, and ship you the invitations and envelopes within a week. Sound familiar? We won’t mention the years before that where you actually went into a store and picked out your invitations covered in lace and overlay. That just seems archaic at this point, mind you this is what we did for my wedding invitations only 10 years ago!
Well as I found out when I started my first venture into the online business world. This is no longer the case! Etsy, like many other aspects in our life, has gone DIY mode. Yes, occasionally you will find that diamond in the rough shop that will still edit and print for you. However, 80% of stationery on Etsy are self edit digital downloads. What are digital downloads you might say? How do digital downloads work?
Digital Download
Simply put when you purchase a digital download you are paying a designer for their graphics and layout. You will then take this design and edit the words to fit your event. Followed by downloading the ready-to-print document and either printing yourself or having a print shop print for you.
How they work…
After you purchase a download you will get an email notification that includes a link to a 3rd party editing software platform. On this site you will put in your information for the upcoming party time, date, place, rsvp…you know the deal. Once complete you will then download the file to print at home, send to an online printer, or take to a local office supply store (think ups, fedex, staples, office depot, etc).
“Whoa, Katie this sounds like a lot of work! Just what I needed something else to add to the list of to-do’s. Is there no customer service out there anymore?!”
Am I right? Is this a scenario that is running through your head? I get it, I totally get it! As a busy mom I just want to delegate and get things off the to-do list not add more things to it!!
Yes, it seems overwhelming in the beginning, however, let me break it down for you with a visual…
Process
Purchase > Edit > Download > Print
Whoa! That just got a little less scary, right?!
Now let’s hear about the benefits that come with this new process…
Benefits
1. Significantly lower cost Since you are not getting the full package, you will pay a much lower price point, on average $8-12. This allows you to save your money on invitations and spend it on something that matters more to you. 2. Time saver In a rush because you have put off planning to the last minute. The download process takes minutes. Even if you choose to print at a local shop they usually can turn an order around for you within 24hrs. 3. Eco Friendly Looking for way to become more sustainable, earth-friendly? Once you edit and download you can send the invite via text or email. Wa La! **Bonus points - this is also a cost savings (envelopes, stamps) and a time saver (no addressing needed)! Win, win, WIN! 4. Supporting Small Business Ordering from a shop on Etsy vs other bulk online resources is supporting a family. Allowing someone to pursue their passions and bring you wonderful original concepts and ideas in return. Find your shop and show your support!
Tackling the Unknown
Words like editing software and print yourself seem daunting in the beginning. I get it! However, like any other new unknown you have tried. Once you get in there and give it a try it becomes less scary. I will have other articles that address these topics but to give you some quick pointers…
Editing Software
You don’t have to download anything! It is it’s own platform that you can access from any device (phone, computer, tablet) and apple vs android doesn’t matter! You click your link make your text adjustments and click download. That simple.
Printing
Print at Home in 3 easy steps 1. You need to understand what weight of paper your printer can handle. 2. You need an adequate cutting board. 3. Finally, you need envelopes.
For professional printing, I recommend Print of Love. They offer high-quality prints and amazing customer service! When you use my special link below, you’ll receive FREE shipping and envelopes:
https://printsoflove.com/ref/PERFECTPARTYTHEME
Use code “PERFECTPARTYTHEME10” at Prints of Love for 10% off your order of $49 or more!
Moving Forward
I hope that I was able to take some of the unknown and guess work out of it for you. If you still have questions ask below in the comment section. I’m more than happy to help!
If you are not aware I do create digital downloads and here is an easy link to check out my current invitations!
* Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that are at no additional cost to you, If you purchase I may earn a small commission.
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