The Art of Wedding Stationery and Invitations

Crafting Your Wedding's First Impression

Wedding stationery encompasses a variety of items, each serving a unique purpose in the journey to your wedding day. To ensure a harmonious look and feel, it's essential to plan your stationery suite with care. Here's a breakdown of the different types of wedding stationery you might consider:

Pre-Wedding Stationery Essentials

• Engagement Party Invitations: These are the first announcements that share the news of your commitment. While they don't have to match your wedding theme, which might still be undecided, they should still resonate with your personal style.
• Save the Date Cards: Sent up to 12 months in advance, these cards are particularly useful if you anticipate a delay in sending the formal invitations or if guests need ample time to arrange travel or time off. According to The Knot's 2019 Real Weddings Study, 48% of couples sent out save-the-date cards.

The Main Event: Wedding Invitations

• Wedding Invitations: Dispatched 6-8 weeks before the wedding, these are the cornerstone of your stationery suite. They provide essential details such as the hosts, venue, date, time, and dress code. It's also crucial to include a response mechanism for guests to confirm their attendance.
• RSVP Cards: Often included with the invitation, RSVP cards should be pre-stamped for convenience and requested back 3-4 weeks before the wedding to finalize headcounts with the venue.

Day-Of Stationery

• Wedding Ceremony Programs: While not as common as they once were, programs guide guests through the ceremony and are helpful for participants like readers. They contribute to a smooth and inclusive experience.
• Place Cards: These direct guests to their assigned seats at the reception, an essential element for a well-organized event.

Post-Wedding Gratitude

• Thank You Cards: A gesture of appreciation for guests' presence and gifts, these should be sent within the first few months after the wedding, typically 2-3 weeks after receiving a gift.

Additional Considerations

When planning your wedding stationery, it's considerate to include a map or directions to the venue to ensure guests arrive on time. Also, when sending wedding invitations, remember to address them appropriately to couples, families, and single guests with or without a plus one.

For more detailed guidance on wedding stationery and to explore design options, you can visit authoritative wedding planning resources like The Knot and Brides.

In terms of trends, a report by The Knot reveals that custom wedding hashtags are on the rise, with 54% of couples using them in 2019. This modern twist can be incorporated into your stationery for a personalized touch.

Remember, your wedding stationery is more than just paper; it's a collection of memories in the making. Take the time to ensure each piece resonates with the love and excitement of your upcoming celebration.