The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Pre-Wedding Stationery
Kicking off your wedding planning is a exhilarating journey, with each step bringing you closer to your big day. Among the essential elements is your wedding stationery, which I like to seperate into 3 groups: Pre-wedding, Wedding and Post-Wedding.
Today, we'll focus on pre-wedding; setting the tone and providing crucial information to your guests.
1. Save The Dates: The First Impression
Save The Dates are the initial glimpse your guests will have of your wedding. These should be sent out as soon as you've locked in your date to give your guests ample time to plan. Think 12-18 months in advance.
Here’s what you need to consider:
Design and Theme: Reflect your wedding style and theme. Whether it’s a rustic countryside affair or a chic city wedding, your Save The Dates should hint at what’s to come.
Essential Information: Include the date, location, and a note that a formal invitation will follow. Are you thinking of hosting your wedding info on a website? Adding your wedding website link can be helpful for additional details; although can certainly wait until the formal invitation.
Timing: Send these out early, especially for destination weddings or if many guests will be traveling from out of town.
2. The Formal Invitation: Details Matter
Your formal wedding invitation is the centerpiece of your pre-wedding stationery. It should be sent out 8-12 months before the wedding. Here’s how to make sure it’s perfect:
Design Consistency: Ensure the design matches your Save The Dates and overall wedding theme.
Key Information: Include the who, what, when, where, and why. The invitation should clearly state the names of the couple, date, time, venue, and dress code if applicable.
Additional Inserts: Consider including a details card with accommodation information, directions, and your registry. An RSVP opportunity is also essential.
3. Bridal Shower / Hen do: Honoring the Bride
The cherished pre-wedding tradition. Sending out invitations for this special event helps set the tone for a delightful gathering. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Design and Theme: Coordinate with the theme of the party and feel free to get a bit off-brand with this; whether it’s a brunch, garden luncheon, or spa day. Feel free to get creative!
Essential Information: Include the date, time, location, and RSVP details. You may also want to add registry information.
Timing: Send out these invites at least 3 months in advance, or however much notice your friends need to get a plan in the diary
Have a look at this DIY digital template I've created that you can easily personalise on Canva
4. RSVPs: Keeping Track
RSVPs are crucial for your planning process. They help you get an accurate headcount and any special dietary requirements from your guests. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Paper or Digital? Some prefer the traditional touch of paper, others prefer to go digital.
Digital: Digital options include a website with a form (website ssuch as Say I do or a simple Typeform would be sufficient)
RSVP Card Design: This should match the invitation suite and include a pre-addressed, stamped return envelope.
Deadline: Set an RSVP deadline at least 4 months before the wedding date to finalise numbers for your caterer and venue; make sure to understand your venues timelines
Some additional tips & tricks:
Budget Wisely: Allocate a portion of your wedding budget specifically for stationery. Remember to account for postage costs.
Going Paperless? Look at modern, digital alternatives. For example I offer an animated Save The Date Gif that can be sent via iMessage or Whatsapp. No need to wait for printing and a fraction of the cost.
Proofread: Double-check all details and have someone else review them too. Spelling errors or incorrect information can be costly to fix.
Order Extras: Order at least 10-15 extra invitations and envelopes to cover last-minute guest additions or any errors during addressing.
Keep It Organised: Maintain a spreadsheet to track RSVPs, meal choices, and any special requests.
Final Thoughts
Your pre-wedding stationery is more than just paper; it’s the first impression of your special day. At &received, we’re committed to helping you create beautiful, cohesive, and memorable stationery that reflects your love story. Visit our Pre-Wedding collection to see what we have to offer.
By following this guide, you can ensure that your pre-wedding stationery is perfectly prepared, leaving you free to enjoy every moment of your big day.
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