Wedding Stationery 101 – From With Love Paperie

WRITTEN BY Jenn Newton, With Love Paperie | PHOTOGRAPHY BY Lauren Liz Photo

Picture this: A crisp envelope lands on your guest’s doorstep. As they slide out the invitation, their eyes light up. Suddenly, they’re holding a key to your love story!

Welcome to the dazzling world of wedding stationery, nearlywed! It’s so much more than pretty paper (though, let’s be honest, we’re suckers for a gorgeous letterpress). These little works of art are the red carpet of your celebration, offering guests a VIP glimpse into your big day. From save-the-dates to thank-you notes, each piece is a chapter of your nuptial tale. Will your invitations whisper rustic romance or shout modern love? That’s your call!

Each detail — from swirling calligraphy to luxe cardstock — builds buzz for your bash. Think of it as Fashion Week for your wedding, with every envelope a mini runway show. Overwhelmed by the options? Don’t worry. Grab your partner, pour some bubbly, and let’s dive into the must-know tips to make your stationery suite the talk of the town.

STATIONERY CHECKLIST

When it comes to wedding stationery, there’s no such thing as too much sparkle, romance or whatever it is that makes you, you! Remember, this is YOUR day. However, keep in mind that consistency is key. Keep your design elements flowing from piece to piece for a cohesive suite that’ll have your guests talking long after the last dance.

From the first “Save the Date” to the final thank-you note, here’s your starting guide to wedding stationery essentials that’ll keep your guests in the loop (and totally wowed).

1. Save the Dates

The teaser trailer for your wedding! These little cards announce your date and help guests block their calendars.

What to Include:

• Your names
• The wedding date
• Location (city/state)
• Website link (if available)

Since this is a request to “clear your calendar,” you don’t need to give into all the details just yet. For now, you can leave off information about RSVPs, registry, schedule of events and other overly specific details.

2. Formal Invitations

The main event of your wedding stationery suite! This star-of-the-show is often broken down into the following supporting pieces:

Main Invitation Card

All your essential details, showcased in style.

What to Include:

• Hosts’ names
• The couple’s names
• Date and time of the ceremony
• Ceremony and reception location(s) 9 Attire details

In addition to essential information, consider aesthetic elements to carry throughout your stationery show, such as letterpress, foil stamping, monograms or crests.

Response Card

Whether it’s a mail-back card or a digital RSVP, this is where guests confirm their attendance.

What to Include:

• Reply by date / RSVP deadline
• Website address or QR code (consider a custom URL for a special touch!)
• Space for guest names (for mail-back cards)

Details Card

Time for the nitty-gritty! Your details card showcases everything else your guests need to know.

What to Include:

• Accommodations
• Website address
• Travel info
• Children policy
• Any other necessary details for guests to attend or enjoy your big day

Consider: If your website covers it all, think about combining the details and RSVP card info onto one piece of stationery.

Envelopes

Stand out in the mail and keep everything together with the envelope — think of these as the gift wrap for your stationery.

What to Include:

• The name of each invited guest, including any plus ones
• Return address
• Stamps on RSVP envelopes (if using mail-back responses)

Be sure to consider envelope liners, outer/inner envelopes, calligraphy or vintage/custom stamps for extra flair.

When it comes to your formal invitations, the customization options are endless. Don’t forget to consider the following special touches:

• Wax seals — medieval romance, anyone?
• Ribbons — because who doesn’t love to unwrap a present?
• Pocket folders — to keep it all together
• Belly bands — like a hug for your invites
• Vellum wraps — for that extra “wow” factor

3. Ceremony Program

The ceremony program is the playbill for your ceremony — or your “what’s happening when” guide to keep guests on track with the schedule of events.

What to Include:

• Couple’s names
• Wedding date
• Ceremony schedule
• Wedding party
• Special roles or dedications
• Additional events for the evening

Consider a heartfelt thank-you message or memorial tributes for a personal touch. Also think about whether you want one program per person or one per couple.

4. Day-Of Stationery

Introducing your supporting cast! Your day-of stationery includes any printed items you and your guests need to ensure a wonderful experience on your big day.

Some items might include:

• Place cards or escort cards
• Menu Cards
• Table numbers or names
• Cocktail napkins
• Vow books
• Aisle signage
• Special recognition signage

5. Thank You Cards

The grand finale of gratitude! Personalized notes are a beautiful way to thank guests for celebrating with you.

And don’t procrastinate on writing your thank-you notes! Aim to send them within three months of the big day.

WEDDING INVITATION ETIQUETTE

Listen up, lovebirds! Before you seal those envelopes, let’s chat about some invitation no-nos that could ruffle your guests’ feathers. Avoid these common mishaps:

• The “Plus One” Puzzle: Leaving guests guessing about whether they can bring a date is a recipe for RSVPs gone wild. Be clear about who’s invited – by name — on both the envelope and invitation.
• Registry: Your wedding isn’t a gift grab! Keep registry info off your main invite and save it for your wedding website or details card.
• Time Crunch Catastrophe: Sending invites too late is like expecting Cinderella to make it to the ball without her fairy godmother. Aim for 14-16 weeks before the big day, or your guests might be left scrambling.
• The Information Overload: Your invitation isn’t a novel. Keep it sweet and simple. Save the nitty-gritty details for your wedding website or details card.
• Sloppy Spelling Syndrome: Nothing says “oops” like misspelling your future in-laws’ names. Triple-check the spelling of everything before going to print!
• RSVP Riddle: Make it crystal clear how and when guests should RSVP. And be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope when requesting a mail-back response.
• The “Adults Only” Awkward Moment: If kids aren’t invited, address invitations to adults only. A discreet “adult reception” note on the details card can also do the trick.
• Dress Code Dilemma: If you leave your guests guessing about attire, you might end up with flip-flops at a black-tie affair. A simple line about attire can save everyone from a fashion emergency.
• The Postage Predicament: Nothing kills the vibe like a “postage due” stamp or getting a returned invite. Weigh a complete invitation suite at the post office to avoid this party foul.

Remember, etiquette isn’t about being stuffy — it’s about making your guests feel valued and informed. Nail these details with your wedding stationery, and you’ll be setting the stage for the celebration of the century!

About the Author

Jenn Newton is the creative force behind With Love Paperie, a boutique letterpress and custom invitation studio. Her philosophy is simple: crafting an experience that will last a lifetime begins with an invitation. To Jenn, an invitation is far more than a piece of paper — it’s a cherished keepsake that embodies the joy, excitement, and journey leading up to a special moment. Since 2015, she has been dedicated to helping people invite others to share in their celebrations, creating tangible memories that resonate long after the event has passed.

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