Why the Tradition of a Paper Wedding Invitation Still Matters

Weddings have come a long way over the century, with many couples opting for more modern and innovative ways to invite their guests to their special day. But despite the advancements in technology and the popularity of digital invitations, there's still something to be said for the borrowed classic tradition of a paper wedding invitation.

Paper invitations have been something of a borrowed culture in the Tanzania wedding scene, dating back to the colonial error. They establish a formality of hospitality, an attribute that is the foundation of the Tanzanian culture of "Ukarimu". Back in the day when we used to keep memories in tangible form, a paper wedding invitation was also a keepsake for the guests and served as a reminder of the special day. It provided a tangible connection to the wedding and allowed guests to feel included and valued as they prepared to celebrate the union of a couple and their families. Fast forward to today, the paper invitation is steadily taking the "after-thought" effect, gradually losing its grandeur and importance in our culture.

For starters, it's losing its position as a symbol of the family's union which sets the tone for the entire wedding experience. It is also losing the opportunity for the couple to express their personal style and share their story. It is starting to lose the "why" of the invite. 

As with many memories, when not recorded they are forgotten, rendering the experience forgettable. And for an experience such as a wedding, a paper invitation adds a personal touch that simply can't be replicated by a digital invitation. When your guests receive a beautifully crafted paper invitation, it creates a tangible and emotional connection to your wedding day. It also serves as a keepsake that they can treasure for years to come.

Another reason to consider a paper invitation is that it allows you to fully express your creativity and personality as a couple. You have the ability to choose the color, design, and wording of your invitation, which can serve as a preview of the overall aesthetic of your wedding day.

But just because you choose a paper invitation doesn't mean you have to sacrifice modernity. There are plenty of ways to incorporate contemporary trends into your invitation while still maintaining the traditional feel. For example, you could opt for a chic and minimalist design, or incorporate bold patterns or unique illustrations that reflect your style. You could also consider incorporating eco-friendly materials, such as recycled paper, designing and hand-making your own invitations, and incorporating cultural elements into your invitation design.

At the end of the day, the choice between a digital or paper invitation comes down to personal preference. But if you're looking to add a touch of elegance, sentimentality, and personality to your wedding day, a paper invitation is definitely worth considering.