The Ultimate Timeline for Ordering Wedding Stationery
At June and Opal, we know planning a wedding involves numerous details, and one of the most crucial aspects is your wedding stationery. From save the dates to thank you cards, knowing when to order and send each piece ensures everything goes smoothly. Here’s the ultimate timeline to help you stay organized and stress-free.
12+ Months Before the Wedding
Start Your Research
Inspiration: Begin gathering inspiration from magazines, Pinterest, and wedding blogs. You might even start dreaming in calligraphy fonts.
Budget: Establish a budget for your stationery.
Vendors: Research and reach out to potential stationery vendors. Make sure they understand your vision.
8-10 Months Before the Wedding
Save the Dates
Design: Finalize the design of your save the dates. Choose a style that reflects your wedding theme.
Order: Place your order to allow time for printing and delivery.
Mail: Send out your save the dates anywhere from 6-10 months before the wedding, especially for out of town guests that may have visa requirements and destination weddings. Give them plenty of time to book those flights and pack those suitcases.
6-8 Months Before the Wedding
Wedding Invitations
Design: Start designing your wedding invitations. Consider coordinating with the save the dates for a cohesive look.
Proofreading: Proofread the text multiple times to avoid any errors. You don’t want to invite guests to your "Wdding".
Approve for Print: Place your order to allow ample time for printing and any potential revisions.
3-4 Months Before the Wedding
Addressing Invitations
Gather Addresses: Collect addresses from your guest list. Use a spreadsheet to keep track.
Calligraphy: If using calligraphy, arrange for a calligrapher to address the envelopes. This step can take a few weeks. Fancy writing takes time!
Mail Invitations
Send Invitations: Mail your invitations 8 weeks before the wedding. For destination weddings, and overseas guest send them out at least 3-4 months in advance.
RSVP Deadline: Set the RSVP deadline for 1 month before the wedding to finalize your guest count. Yes, you’ll still need to chase a few people.
1-2 Months Before the Wedding
Day-Of Stationery
Design: Finalize the design for day-of stationery, such as programs, menus, place cards, and signage. Make sure they’re typo-free.
Order: Place your order to ensure everything is ready for the big day. You don’t want to be handwriting place cards the night before.
1 Month Before the Wedding
Follow-Up
RSVPs: Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded to ensure you have an accurate headcount.
Seating Chart: Use the RSVPs to finalize your seating chart and order place cards.
After the Wedding
Thank You Cards
Design: Choose a design that matches your wedding theme or photo thank you cards featuring a wedding photo. Let’s show off that wedding bliss.
Order: Place your order shortly after the wedding to send out in a timely manner. You’re still riding the post-wedding high, so capitalize on that energy!
Mail: Send thank you cards within 1-3 months after the wedding to express your gratitude. Don’t wait too long!
Tips for a Smooth Process
Order Extras: Order 10-20% more invitations and envelopes than you think you’ll need. Trust us, you’ll need them.
- Proofread: Double and triple-check all text for errors before printing. No one wants a repeat of the "Wdding" incident.
- Stay Organized: Keep all your wedding stationery details in a dedicated folder or binder. Or a really fancy shoebox – whatever works.
By following this ultimate timeline, you’ll ensure your wedding stationery is perfect and timely, leaving you to enjoy the other exciting aspects of wedding planning. Remember to have fun, and don’t sweat the small stuff – that’s what we’re here for! Happy planning!
