Today's trends in wedding stationery are a far cry from what it was in your mother's or your grandmother's day. Brides no longer have to stick to white, and there are multiple options available in any color of the rainbow. In the past, it was easy to make your wedding invitation cards stick out by just adding a hint of color. Nowadays, with the multitude of designs available, it may take a little more creativity to get truly unique wedding invitations into your guests' mailboxes. Here are some elements you can play with to achieve a different style of card that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Shape

Most wedding invitations still come in the traditional rectangular card shape. More brides are starting to branch out and send square cards, but not many have tapped into the various other shapes available. You can choose a long, layered invitation or a die-cut card in a wedding motif. Invitations in the shape of a bride's dress, or of a sandal for a beach-themed wedding are certainly different from the norm.

Fold

Instead of a simple open and shut card, choose a different type of fold to add some flair to your wedding invitations. A three-way gate fold, a pocket style design or a diagonal fold will add texture to your cards. These folds can set different tones for your wedding depending on the material and colors you choose. A pink-polka dotted pocket invitation would suit a more casual wedding, while a black and silver monogrammed card would suit a more chic urban affair.

Wrapping

Intensify the suspense of your guests by wrapping your invitations. Guests will have to do some work to unveil the details of your event, but they should be intrigued in the process. Wrap white invitations in black for a fancy event, or show how decadent your wedding will be with an elegant floral wrap. Patterns depicting roses, dark reads and pinks all can give a unique and romantic touch to your wedding invitations.

When choosing your unique wedding invitation, just make sure you don't go overboard. Guests may get confused if they receive a lime green, pocket-folded and wrapped invitation. Using one of the elements mentioned above should be sufficient to set your wedding invitation apart. You want your invitation to be different, but you certainly don't want it to be so frustrating to open that your guests become flustered. Combing one of these ideas with your wedding colors should get you on track to hosting a memorable wedding.