Whether you are starting to think about writing your Valentine’s or you are planning on writing your own vows this project is perfect for anything that is written from the heart. Black and White recently did a how-to blog on creative digital art without Photoshop.

Step 1: Type your text in MS Word. For illustration purposes, I’m doing one of my favorite Michael Buble songs “Crazy Love”.

Step 2: Save the document as an image. Highlight your text. Copy and paste into a new Paint file. Save as a .JPEG or .BMP file. Once you have saved the file as an image, open the image and crop away any white space.

Step 3: Insert your “Auto-Shape” heart in MS Word.

Step 4: Fill the “Auto-Shape” with a your saved picture file from Step 2. Right click your shape> Format AutoShape> In the Colors and Lines tab, select Fill Effects…> Click on the Picture tab> Select Picture…>Find the image you saved of your text>Insert and click “OK”>Remove border around the shape by selecting “No Line” on the Colors and Lines tab.

Step 5: Print and enjoy! You can resize your auto-shape heart depending on your intended use of the graphic. Small or large - the text will adjust too!

This project is such a fun little idea for your wedding vows, inside jokes, favorite quotes, or “I love you”. Everything will look a little more more special in the shape of a heart! Have fun.

Today it seems like you can buy pretty much anything online. I am sure you’ve seen so many websites where you can buy your wedding invitations online, but should you? Here are some key tips to make sure you know where you stand:

• Do you know what you want? There are so many options and styles online so before you begin searching, it is important to know what you want. If you know exactly what you want you should have no problem purchasing your wedding invitations on the internet. You can narrow your search by searching for color, shape, style, motif, etc. If you don’t know what you want you could be searching for hours, and hours, and hours, and… you get the idea.
• Do you know exactly what you want it to say? Before you sit down to purchase your invitations it is a good idea to know what you want to say. Some sites offer a selection of pre-written verses or sample of text for you to choose from. It is a good idea to have something written out before you purchase and don’t forget to spell check!
• Do you want something extremely unique or customized? If so, you will be better off by visiting a retailer for wedding stationery. They can give the printing company specific instructions that you may not be able to give by typing it in online. If you have specific layout requests, color or paper changes, or anything else non-standard, it is best to go into a retail store.
• Do you need speedy processing or shipping? If you’re in a time crunch, you may want to visit a retailer. Many online selections don’t allow you to select rush printing or shipping options. If you do want to purchase online, upgrading your shipping is always a good idea. This can often save about 3-4 business days depending on where you live.
• Do you have specific colors you are trying to match? If not, you should be perfectly ok purchasing online. But if you have a specific shade of purple you are looking to match, you will want to go to a retailer. You will be able to see it with your own eyes and up close. It is important to note that computers are back lit so colors can vary from one monitor to the next. If you are worried, order a printed proof or sample from the online company to ensure the color match.
• Is price a major factor? Some online retailers offer a discount for purchasing online. Many online companies will also let you search based on price as well, which might make it a little quicker and easier to find invitations within your budget.

Whether shopping in a store or online, it is always important to review your order, print off any electronic proofs and proof read! Happy shopping!