Catherine at Wedding Venues Magazine recently got in touch to ask if we’d partake in a stationery feature. It’s a Q&A of top questions to ask your stationer. Here it is:
10 tips for stress free stationery
1 “Should I send ‘save the date’ cards?”
Although not strictly required, if you’re getting married abroad or have guests travelling from afar, Save the date cards will allow extra time for people to make travel and accommodation arrangements.
2 “How far in advance do I need to order my stationery?”
Check with your stationer about their turnaround time, as this can differ significantly from one supplier to another. Aim to have invitations delivered 3-4 months ahead of the wedding.
3 “How many invitations should I order?”
Run through your guest lists and consider the amount of couples and families you’ll be inviting. It is a common mistake for couples to over order invitations, thinking they require 1 per guest, not 1 per household. Always order a few extra just in case.
4 “What wording should I choose?”
Talk this through with your stationer, as you’ll need to consider the tone you’d like to set for the day and how your wording will present on paper within your chosen design. As long as the necessary information is covered, you can be as traditional, formal or informal as you like.
5 “Will I see a proof of my invitations?”
Find out about your stationer’s proofing policy, as some will include just one proof and others will allow for further revisions. Charges can apply when multiple proofs are needed so it’s important to check spellings, finalise wording and design before starting this process. Some stationers will also offer to send a hard copy for you to see before printing commences.
6 “When should I send out my invitations?”
Depending on your wedding plans, invitations are usually mailed out 6 weeks to 3 months ahead of the wedding date. If you’re getting married abroad or have a significant number of guests travelling from overseas, consider sending invitations out as early as 6-12 months before the wedding.
7 “Exactly what do I need to order?”
Discuss your requirements with your stationer. Strictly all you need are invitations and envelopes. Extra information and RSVP cards can be added if desired but there are ways to get around this if you’re on a budget.
8 “Should I include RSVP cards with my invites?”
Many couples now choose to use email addresses for their RSVP, though do remember elder guests aren’t always Internet savvy, so an RSVP card or simply a postal address on your invitation is usually required. Most wedding venues will need your final guest numbers 2-3 weeks before the wedding, so encourage guests to RSVP at least 4 weeks before the big day.
9 “Can I include extra details on my invitations?”
Ask your stationer for their opinion on what should and shouldn’t be included on the invitation itself. If you want to include a lot of information consider adding a particulars card. If however you’re on a budget, try using a free wedding website for extra details for guests. A website address can be added to the bottom of the invitation to save on inserts. Guests can then logon to read any travel, accommodation and gift list suggestions.
10 “Can I design my own stationery?”
Many stationers offer print only services, so you can design something incredibly personal and have it printed professionally. If you have creative ideas of what you’d like, but are a little short on graphic design skills, find a stationer who offers a custom design service.
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