If you're hosting a party or wedding in Chicago, Illinois, you'll want to announce it in style. Finding the right party and wedding invitations is important. For example, round party invitations in the shape of a Chicago-style pizza would be the perfect touch for a bachelorette pajama party, but more elegant invitations in the wedding colors would better herald the wedding ceremony itself.

Keep in mind that your wedding and party invitations will be the first glimpse your guests have of your event. Party invitations should not only match the party's theme; they should give helpful information about the date, time, dress code, and the address in Chicago where the festivites will be held. Wedding invitations will be heralded by Save the Date cards, so couples should start thinking about their stationery's theme even earlier.

There are several choices when it comes to printing your cards. Engraving physically presses the letters into the paper. Letterpress is a similar process to engraving, but limits opaque colors. Thermography is the least expensive option for raised letters. Lithography prints flat, but is a good choice for complex images and colors.

Wedding invitations vary widely by price, depending on the style you choose. Chicago vendors offer options to suit any budget, including bulk, pre-made invites on the most affordable end, and custom design for the more extravagant. If you want all of Chicago to put your event on their calendar, you can hire a graphic designer to help you craft the perfect design. If you're inviting many out of town guests, why not include a stylized drawing of the Chicago skyline as seen from Northerly Island? A little local flavor goes a long way in helping your party invitations to stand out.