Wedding invitations are more than just who, when, what and where. They begin to tell the story of two families joining together through this union. The style and tone of your wedding invitations set the tone for your event and give your guests a teaser of what they can expect on your wedding day. Don't forget to download these Free Printable Wedding Planner Worksheets to organize your planning!
Your invitations can give hints about wedding colors, themes and the formality of the event. Get some Ideas for Choosing Your Wedding Colors and Theme here! Use language that matches you and your fiancé’s personality and the mood of the event. Formal weddings = formal invitations; outdoor, rustic or destination wedding = less formal. An example of an invitation for a more rustic chic themed wedding would be these personalized invitations. If you're going for something more simple, these Personalized Simple Stripe Wedding Invitations might be something you will want to consider. If you still unsure of your guest list, check out this article on How to Create Your Wedding Guest List.
You can buy wedding invitations from a local stationer, order them online, or design and print them yourself. You can even personalize the envelopes by getting a personalized stamper like this Typewriter Font Monogram Stamper! The great news is that with so many wonderful options readily available, you can easily find beautiful wedding invitations that reflect your style without spending a small fortune. That’s kinda worth celebrating – who wants to start taste testing champagne? Okay, you’re right, we have to stay focused. Back to getting your guests invited to the #bestweddingever!
What do you need to send?
1. Invitation with:
- Names of hosts
- Invitation line ("request the pleasure of your company" "invite you to the marriage of...")
- Bridal Couple's Names
- Date and Timeline
- Location
- Party Line optional ("Reception to follow")
- Dress Code optional ("Black Tie")
2. RSVP card with:
- Stamped envelope or postcard (or via wedding website)
- Due 2-3 weeks before wedding
- Include an RSVP card like these Personalized Two Hearts Response Cards with the invitation.
3. Can also include in stationery suite:
- Wedding website card (share wedding website URL so guests can get all extra info online)
- Reception card (if not printed on bottom of invitation)
- Map (helpful for destination weddings)
- Accommodations card (if you booked hotel room blocks)
- Pre or Post Wedding Events Card (only for events that everyone is invited to attend, like a morning after brunch. Not for a gathering like the rehearsal dinner)
- Inner envelope or tissue paper (protects from wear and tear of mailing)
Check out this Beyond the Invitation article for more tips on wedding stationary!
Printing options (from most expensive to least):
- Engraving: raised lettering you can feel from the back. Best for very formal affairs. Also see these 8 Ways to Embellish Your Wedding Invitations!
- Letterpress: indented letters that are slightly raised on the back, old technique that has a modern and artsy look.
- Thermography: raised lettering like engraving without impression on the back. Bonus - it is about half the cost!
- Flat printing: smooth letters, can be "offset" using a lithographic press or "digital" using a printer. A DIY brides best bet.
When you are all done picking out and personalizing your wedding invitations, see some tips on mailing the invitations!
Your wedding is just six months away! Let’s work on booking guest accommodations and planning your bridal hair and makeup. Oh, and how does a honeymoon sound? We also have some great travel tips for you, too!
For more inspiration and tips, check out our Month-by-Month Wedding Planning Guide. We have advice for every phase of your planning process.
Article written by: Melissa Collier
