Wedding stationery is an essential part of planning any wedding. It allows the couple to share important details with their guests. Today, we will focus on the timeline of common wedding stationery items - when they are typically sent and what information they provide. This overview may offer some ideas for you to consider regarding the purpose and timing of each piece.
1. Save-the-date Cards
Save-the-date is one of the first pieces of wedding stationery sent to guests. Mailed out around 6-12 months before the wedding, it aims to communicate the chosen date at the earliest possible. This allows guests, especially those traveling from out of town, to reserve the date on their calendars in advance. Besides, save-the-date comes in various styles reflecting the wedding’s theme and vibe.
2. Invitations
Wedding invitations are a couple’s formal invitation extending to guests to celebrate their wedding. Mailed 8-10 weeks before the date, invitations provide event details like the ceremony and reception location and times. Besides, couples select the invitation style from folded or flat options, coordinating the paper type, weight, and colors with their theme. Through creative designs, invitations communicate the wedding’s aesthetics and the couples’ vision.
3. RSVP Cards
RSVP, French for “répondez s’il vous plaît”, offers guests a way to respond to wedding invitations formally. Couples include RSVP cards or notes on invitations requesting a response if guests can attend. This allows them to gauge anticipated attendance numbers for food, seating, and other wedding vendors. Guests reply by a set deadline whether they will celebrate with the couple or politely regret being unable to join.
4. Programs
Wedding programs provide helpful information for guests attending the ceremony and celebration. Couples design these booklets to share details like the wedding party order, musical selections, readings, or vows. Programs are usually placed at each seat or tucked into ceremony programs. Beyond assisting guests, wedding programs also allow couples to express their gratitude and share pictures from events leading up to the wedding day.
5. Menus
Wedding menus guide reception guests’ dining selections. Couples use these booklets to share the appetizer, entrant, and dessert choices for easy reference during the event. Beyond practical food and drink listings, menus also provide opportunities for personalization. Through stylized elements or meaningful dish names, couples express their vision. Positioned at each seat, menus smoothly direct the dining experience while offering a final personalized stationery touch.
6. Thank You Cards
Thank you cards are one of the last pieces of wedding stationery sent to guests. Mailed promptly after the wedding, they aim to express gratitude to everyone who shared and helped celebrate the special day. Thank you cards typically include a personal, handwritten note of appreciation. The note often thanks the recipient for sharing the special occasion, whether by attending the ceremony and reception, providing a wedding gift, or offering well wishes and support. Thank you cards complete wedding etiquette and allow couples to acknowledge all those who were part of their celebrations individually.
Other extras include bridal shower invitations, escort cards, maps, seating cards, welcome bags, signature cocktails, etc. Stationery allows you to showcase your wedding color palette, fonts, and aesthetic from start to finish. Therefore, choosing the right pieces helps set the perfect tone as you celebrate your big day with loved ones.
