Massachusetts-based stationery manufacturer Checkerboard just debuted a solution for planners stuck deciding between the formality of traditional printed invitations and the modern convenience of online guest-management tools. The new Fusion collection offers 20 customizable invitation designs; clients can choose between thermography, letterpress, or digital printing, in addition to a variety of ink colors, layer customization, and fonts. While some of the designs feature wedding-geared monograms, Checkerboard can replace certain graphics with company logos or branding.
Costs begin at around $500 for 100 invitation sets, a price that includes custom-printed envelopes with guests’ addresses, printed response cards, and access to easyinvite.com, Checkerboard’s online service offering guest-list management, digital R.S.V.P.s, and envelope addressing. In addition to Outlook and Excel, the site can import and request addresses from guests via social networks, like Facebook and Google+. When guests receive the printed invitations, they have the option of mailing back their R.S.V.P. or replying online.
The Fusion collection also includes more than a dozen matching accessories. While some are wedding-specific (ring pillows, guest books), items like favor tags, place cards, and tote bags could easily translate to corporate events. The Checkerboard Fusion Invitations Suites are offered through stationery retailers and dealers throughout the U.S.