Essential Wedding Stationery: What You Need for Your Big Day
When planning a wedding, stationery plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your celebration and communicating important details to your guests. From save-the-dates to thank-you cards, each piece of stationery serves a purpose in guiding your guests through the wedding experience. Here’s a breakdown of the essential wedding stationery you’ll need for your big day.
1. Save-the-Dates
Purpose: To inform guests of your wedding date and location, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding or if your ceremony is during a busy season.
Details to Include:
Names of the couple
Wedding date
Location
A note that a formal invitation will follow
Tip: Save-the-dates can be sent out 10 to 12 months before the wedding.
2. Invitations
Purpose: This is the formal announcement of your wedding and provides all the essential details guests need to know.
Details to Include:
Names of the couple
Date and time of the ceremony
Venue information (address)
Reception details (if applicable)
RSVP information (including a deadline)
Tip: Invitations are typically sent out 12 to 16 weeks before the wedding.
3. RSVP Cards
Purpose: To gather responses from guests regarding their attendance.
Details to Include:
A space for guests to write their names
Options for accepting or declining the invitation
Meal preferences (if applicable)
Tip: Include a return envelope with postage to make it easy for guests to respond.
4. Order of service booklets
Purpose: To inform guests about the order of the ceremony and provide details about the wedding party.
Details to Include:
Names of the couple
Wedding party and family members
Order of events (e.g., processional, vows, readings)
Any special songs or traditions
Tip: Programs can be printed as single card or booklets, depending on your style and amount of information required.
5. Menu Cards
Purpose: To let guests know what to expect for their meal during the reception.
Details to Include:
Starters, main courses, and desserts
Any special dietary options
Tip: Menu cards can double as place cards by including guests' names.
6. Place Cards
Purpose: To direct guests to their assigned seats at the reception.
Details to Include:
Guest names
Table numbers (if applicable)
Tip: Creative place cards can add a personal touch to your tablescape.
7. Table Numbers
Purpose: To help guests find their assigned tables during the reception.
Details to Include:
Clear numbering (or naming) of tables
Tip: Consider incorporating your wedding theme into the design of your table numbers.
8. Signage
Purpose: To provide information and guide guests throughout the venue.
Types of Signage:
Welcome signs
Directional signs (e.g., to the ceremony, cocktail hour, restrooms)
Table plans
Tip: Choose a consistent style for all signage to maintain a cohesive look.
9. Thank-You Cards
Purpose: To express gratitude to guests for their attendance and gifts.
Details to Include:
A personal message thanking them for their support
Mentioning the specific gift (if applicable)
Tip: Send thank-you cards within three months after the wedding to show your appreciation.
10. Additional Stationery
Depending on your wedding style and needs, you may also consider:
Wedding day newspapers
Children’s activity booklets
Order of the day timelines
Conclusion
Wedding stationery is an essential part of your planning process, helping to convey your style and keep guests informed. By thoughtfully considering each piece, from save-the-dates to thank-you cards, you can create a beautiful and cohesive set of stationery that enhances your wedding experience. Enjoy this creative aspect of your planning, and let your unique personality shine through every detail!