Agarwaltimes - Wedding cards get a tech-twist in Aligarh

Wedding cards are getting a tech-twist this season as couples in the city look to do something 'hatke' in the run-up to their big day out. In a departure from the traditional invitation cards, couples and their families are opting for 'interactive' wedding cards themed on social networking sites and film magazines.

Facebook-inspired wedding cards are the most-sought after by people getting married this year. Named Factbook (to evade legal trouble), these wedding cards are virtually a screenshot of the popular social networking site. With sections entitled 'Home', 'Profile', 'Inbox' and 'Notification', these cards aim to be as interactive as possible. Such cards also have the scope to incorporate a 'timeline' as well in which relatives and friends can congratulate the couple.

Medhavi and Deepika Sharma, who got married earlier this month, chose the Facebook-themed cards. "We opted for it because they are unique. Plus, inclusion of a timeline makes such cards interactive and intimate," the newly-wed couple said.

Besides, wedding cards have also been conceptualized as magazines. Surabhi Malhotra, due to get married in April, was sold to this "interesting" concept. "Such cards give us a chance to share our stories and expectations for the future. It would attach an intrigue value to it," said Malhotra, who currently works for a private company. "Guests will attend the wedding if the invitation is interesting. They will remember the card for years to come."

Introduction of concept cards in the city has coincided with the entry of a small crop of wedding planners in Aligarh. Abhinav Agarwal, one of such ilk, was confident about the future of such cards. In fact, he felt the introduction of video cards shortly would be lapped up by the public as well.

"We are trying to introduce wedding cards catering to a generation that is always on the phone. The cards need to be snappy to retain their attention," Agarwal said, before predicting a robust demand for such unique cards in the future. "Cards are not just about inviting, but connecting guests with the couple."

He also spoke of how invitation cards are being customized by them to suit the couple's needs. "People are opting for cards that suit their personality. Recently, a couple chose their card in the shape of a bitten apple, resembling the cyber giant's logo," he further said.

Manoj Pandit, who is a card-maker and owns an establishment at the bustling Dubey ka Padav in the heart of Aligarh city, spoke of how traditional cards are gradually phasing out. "With social media sites being a daily staple for the younger generation, unique concepts have started gaining traction in recent times," he said, adding that around 10% of his customers ask for wedding cards with their photos.

Agarwaltimes