wedding invitation information guide
Information about wedding invitations for the modern couple, including when to order, budget, enclosure options, wedding invitation wording, plus how to assemble and address invitations.
Calculate Invitation Quantity
After you have completed your guest list, order one invitation per couple or family, plus at least ten extra for additions to your list and for keepsakes. Friends living at the same address should have an invitations sent separately to each of them.
Invitation Budget
Prices and quality will vary widely; generally, the lower priced options will be made from a less substantial, thinner paper using digital printing. Samples should be ordered well in advance to check paper thickness and color. Also consider postage requirements, additional fees are added for square shapes or sets over one ounce.
Search online to get price quotes and use specific keywords such as “navy blue wedding invitation kits” or “gold party invitations” for better results.
$1 to $2 each
Premium diy wedding invitation kits offer excellent quality for a reasonable price. Select kits that include high quality papers and envelopes, avoid thin flimsy papers and perforated edges. Visit Formal-Invitations.com for layered invitation kits featuring heavyweight cards, printable overlay and unique embellishments, with easy instructions and free templates.
$2-4 each
Search online or visit local print shops for custom printed invitations using digital, lithography (flat ink) or thermography which offers economical raised lettering, although it is not as crisp as genuine engraving.
$5-10+ each
A local graphic designer, engraver or letterpress printer can provide high end custom invitations. Engraving is a method of imprinting artwork onto heavyweight paper using a copper plate to produce a fine opaque line and raised matte lettering; the impression is also visible from the back. Letterpress creates a deep impression into the paper, producing an appealing texture.
When to Order Invitations
Wedding invitations or blank printable wedding invitation supplies should be ordered 3-6 months before the wedding or event date. Invitations should be mailed 6 six weeks before the event or eight weeks if the date falls on a holiday or for out of town guests.
Wedding Invitation Wording
The main components of wedding invitations are as follows:
- hosts name and invitation request with couple’s names
- date and time of ceremony
- wedding ceremony location
- Reception and/or RSVP information, if space permits or wedding website.
View our wedding invitation wording page for more details, etiquette and sample wording.
Wedding Announcements
Wedding announcements usually echo the style and format of the invitation, with the substitution of words such as “are pleased to announce” the wedding . They are mailed on the day of the ceremony.
Enclosure options
Reception Card
If the reception is held at a different location from the ceremony, a separate card is normally enclosed giving the location and time of the reception, modern brides are even adding a QR code to direct guest to the wedding website or reception location for details. If the reception location wording can fit on the invitation, you can skip the card.
Reply Card
Reply cards simply ask your guest to check whether or not they can attend and include a stamped and self-addressed envelope or postcard for them to return. Response cards might also include a selection of entrees for the reception, allowing guests to indicate their preferences. A wedding website can eliminate this card by having your guests reply online.
Two envelopes/tissue:
A second envelope is not necessary and today more couples are opting to forego using one. Tissues are unnecessary, but may be useful in protecting the envelope if you are using a hard embellishment such as a charm or decorative brad.
Assembling and Addressing Wedding Invitations
If two envelopes are being used, the smaller inner envelope is addressed with only the guest(s) name, such as “Mr. and Mrs. Grant Thompson” “Miss Johnson and Guest”. The outer envelope is addressed with the guest’s full name and address. Avoid using abbreviations for streets and cities.
Before stamping, bring a sample of the completed invitations to the post office to determine the correct postage.When assembling your invitations, the reply card with stamped envelope or reply postcard should be on top, then the reception card, then the invitation. If two envelopes are used, all of the enclosures are placed in the inner envelope face up. The inner envelope is placed (unsealed) in the outer envelope, with the flap facing back so that your guest sees his or her name upon opening.
Bring your sealed and stamped invitations to the post office and send them on their way.
