Choosing your wedding stationery
Your wedding stationary is one of the first things you choose when planning your wedding. It should ideally be very ‘you’ and set the tone for your big day. And for your guests, it will give them a first inkling of what your wedding will be like and start to create a buzz and excitement.
There are many fabulous stationary suppliers to choose from. Make sure you allow plenty of time to choose your stationery including size, design, colours, paper stock, fonts, calligraphy etc.
Many designers offer a bespoke service or you can mix and match from a range of options.
What to order
Stationary can include a whole raft of items. You can often keep costs down by ordering all your stationary at the same time.
Stationary items to consider include:
‘Save the date’ cards
Invitations and envelopes
RSVP cards
Maps and personal notes
Place cards
Menu cards
Wedding order of service
Thank-you notes and envelopes
Ordering your stationery
Order stationery at least 4 months before your wedding, and if you are planning on sending ‘save the date’ cards, you may want to order it even earlier.
Ideally all your wedding stationery items should be ordered at the same time. This will ensure a uniform colour and finish and also minimise your cost per unit.
You will need to have a rough idea of numbers before you place your order and it’s always a good idea to order a few spare (for the inevitable mistakes you make addressing
envelopes, for additional guests or of course as mementos of your day).
Wording your invitations can be surprisingly complicated. Your stationary designer will be best placed to advise on any etiquette or wording dilemmas you may have.
Once you have selected your design, wording and quantities you will be able to request a quotation. It’s always best to check that you have a couple of rounds of amends included in the cost, just in case.
Once you have placed your order, you will usually receive a proof from your printer. This is a final chance to check the details including phone numbers, grammar and spellings.
Sending your invitations
While not essential, sending save the dates six to eight months in advance (or even twelve months if you have overseas guests) will give you peace of mind that guests have your day pencilled in their diaries.
Invitations should be sent 2-3 months ahead of the wedding, along with a stamped RSVP card. It is good etiquette to send an invitation to guests even if they have declined after receiving your save the date card.
Programmes and order of service
Do make sure you speak to your priest / registrar to check if any details should be included in the order of service.
As well as being a lovely keepsake, this is also an opportunity for you to include any personal information, for example how you met, or why your wedding location is so special to you. You may want to introduce or thank other members of the bridal party or remind guests of any timings, directions or information.
