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The perfect stationery trousseau will announce the tone and degree of formality for your wedding celebration. Selecting coordinated wedding invitations, reception cards (if the wedding and reception are at different locations), response cards, thank-you notes, a wedding program and at-home cards requires careful consideration.
Invitations fall into three general categories: third-person formal invitations, semi-formal invitations, or in the case of a small, intimate wedding, handwritten notes on fine stationery. A professional stationer will help you choose accordingly and will assist with the appropriate wording.
To find exactly what you are looking for, plan to visit several stationers; compare quality, prices and the length of time required for printing. Plan well in advance to ensure you receive the invitations in time to address and mail them at least six to eight weeks before your wedding, so that guests have ample time to reply. If your wedding will take place on a holiday weekend, you might consider sending the invitation even sooner, or include a save-the-date card to ensure you make it onto your guests’ calendars. Remember, the larger your guest list, the longer you’ll need to address the envelopes. If you plan to hire a calligrapher to address the invitations for you, factor in the time that vendor will need to do the work.
Tradition and practicality dictate that a couple send out a separate card if the reception is to take place at a different location than the wedding ceremony. This handy card, produced in the same style, is included in the invitation as a reminder of the exact location of the reception. A map is often included.
Response cards are a critical component of the invitation, as they will let you know how many people to expect. A stamped envelope is customarily provided for the guests’ convenience. An accurate count of guests is especially important when confirming “head counts” for those providing catering services. Wedding professionals caution against printing an “RSVP” telephone number on the invitation in lieu of the response card. First, it increases the chance that some guests will forget to respond. Secondly, it is much easier for a busy couple to keep track of response cards coming by mail than response by telephone.
The bride’s married name (or maiden name if the bride elects to keep it after her marriage) is printed on the front of thank-you notes. Use personal stationery printed with your maiden name for gifts received before you are married. As difficult as it may be, reserve those notes bearing your married name until after the wedding takes place.
Wedding announcements may be sent as a courtesy to those who will not be attending the wedding, such as in the case of a destination wedding or more intimate events with a small guest list. Sharing the news in this way should take a format similar to that of a wedding invitation, but should be sent after the event. A stationer will help with the proper wording. At-home cards tell family and friends where you will be living when you are married. Include at-home cards with wedding announcements.
Begin your search for the perfect stationery ensemble at least three or four months prior to your wedding, to ensure time for printing, proofing, addressing, mailing and replies.
Photographer:
Ted Hewitt Photography |
