Wedding Stationery FAQ
Congratulations on your engagement! As you embark on the exciting journey of planning your wedding, one of the initial steps you'll likely take is designing and ordering your wedding stationery. From invitations to day-of stationery and thank you cards, there are many elements to consider. To help you navigate this process smoothly, here are five frequently asked questions that we receive about wedding stationery:
1. When do I mail out my invitations?
The timing for sending out your wedding invitations is important to ensure your guests have enough notice to make arrangements to attend your special day. Traditionally, invitations are mailed out six to eight weeks before the wedding date. However, if you're planning a destination wedding or if many of your guests will need to travel, consider sending them out as early as eight to twelve weeks in advance. Save-the-date cards are sent six to twelve months. If you’re having a destination wedding you’ll want to give your guests at least 12 months in advance to plan.
It’s important to get in touch with your wedding stationer at least 6-12 months prior to your wedding to ensure of availability and timelines.
2. How many invitations do I need to order?
Determining the number of invitations to order depends on the number of households you'll be inviting, rather than the number of individual guests. Take your guest list and count the number of households, couples, and families rather than individuals. It's a good idea to order extra invitations (around 10-15%) to account for last-minute additions or mistakes when addressing envelopes.
3. What time do I put on my invitations?
The time indicated on your wedding invitations is typically the time when the ceremony begins. It's essential to be clear and accurate to avoid confusion among your guests. If you're having a religious ceremony, check with your officiant for any specific timing considerations. Additionally, consider including a start time that is slightly earlier than the actual ceremony time to allow for any delays and ensure everyone is seated and ready when the ceremony begins.
4. How much postage will I need?
The postage required for your wedding invitations depends on several factors, including the size and weight of your invitations, the number of inserts (such as RSVP cards or additional details cards), and the type of postage you choose (e.g., standard stamps or custom-designed stamps). It's advisable to take a fully assembled invitation to the post office and have it weighed to determine the exact postage needed. Remember to factor in postage for the RSVP envelopes as well.
5. When to order my day-of stationery and thank you cards?
Day-of stationery, including programs, menus, place cards, and signage, should be ordered several weeks before your wedding date to ensure they are ready in time. Aim to place your order at least four to six weeks before the wedding, allowing for any customization and shipping time. As for thank you cards, it's best to order them before the wedding so you can start writing and addressing them as soon as gifts start arriving. However, if time slips away, you should aim to send your thank you cards within three months of the wedding.
As you embark on this journey of planning your wedding, remember that your stationery sets the tone for your special day and serves as a cherished keepsake for both you and your guests. Happy planning!
