Wedding stationery is your best way of giving your guests the first impression of your wedding. Your stationery may be divided into three main parts: the save-the-date, the wedding invitations and enclosures, and the day-of pieces.
Save-the-Date
The moment your wedding date is set and the venue is booked - you should send out a save-the-date. It's really important to send them at a strict time before your wedding because the point is you want your guests to get to your wedding on their schedules as soon as it's possible. You don't need to go overboard on details: just your names and the date to keep open. If you have a wedding website already set up with details about the ceremony, reception, and accommodations, include the URL or QR code. And, of course, you can mention that a formal invitation will follow.
Wedding Invitations
Let's make it clear right away: do not include registry information anywhere on your wedding invitation - it is simply rude! You're inviting your friends and family to join in your wedding celebration, you're not inviting them to bring you gifts! The actual wedding invite is where you officially invite your guests. Plan to put these in the mail around two months prior to your wedding.
Day-of Pieces
The invitation might be the main attraction, but there are still some paper pieces you need for the big day. Programs: if you're having a ceremony in a house of worship, this will list info for the officiant, readings, the wedding party, etc. Escort cards and place cards: escort cards tell the guest which table they are at. Place cards show them where at the table they are sitting. Menus: an outline of dinner, set with their place card, is a nice touch. Thank-yous: if you want to get a jump on showing your gratitude, it can be worthwhile to invest in stationery with your newly married name.
