The Art Of Stuffing Wedding Invitation Envelopes Perfectly

There are a few steps to follow when it comes to stuffing wedding invitation envelopes. First, create an assembly line with all the necessary pieces in neat piles. This includes the invitation, any enclosure cards, envelopes, and adornments like ribbons or wax seals. Next, start with the invitation, placing it face-up on the table. Then, add your tissue paper or vellum overlay, followed by the reception card, and any other enclosure cards. Finally, place the response card under the flap of its envelope, with the printed side facing up, and tuck the stacked invitation pieces into the envelope with the printed sides facing you.

Invitation, tissue paper, and vellum overlay

When it comes to wedding invitations, the process of assembling and stuffing envelopes can seem daunting, especially if you have multiple cards and enclosures. However, it's less complicated than you might think. Here's a detailed guide specifically for "Invitation, tissue paper, and vellum overlay".

The first step is to place the invitation card face-up on the table. This is the largest card in the suite and serves as the foundation for the rest of the assembly.

Next, you have the option of including a tissue paper or vellum overlay. Tissue paper has traditionally been used to prevent ink from smudging, but with modern inks, this is less of a concern. However, if you're using an inkjet printer at home, tissue paper can still serve its original purpose. Vellum, on the other hand, is a more contemporary option that offers more translucency and a modern look. It also comes in a variety of colours and sizes and can be printed with custom text and designs. If you decide to use an overlay, choose between tissue paper and vellum, as using both is not recommended.

Once you've decided on the overlay, place it on top of the invitation card. If you're using tissue paper, you can also place it between each card for added protection.

Now, you can start adding any additional enclosure cards, such as reception cards, direction cards, map cards, or hotel accommodation cards. Place these cards face-up on top of the invitation (or tissue paper, if you included it). If there are multiple enclosure cards, start with the largest and work your way to the smallest.

Finally, it's time to add the RSVP card and envelope. Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the stack, with the flap on the left. Insert the RSVP card under the envelope flap, ensuring the printed side is visible. Pre-address and stamp the RSVP envelope to make it easier for your guests to respond.

With all the pieces in place, your invitation suite is now ready to be stuffed into the envelope. If you're using a single envelope, insert the assembled suite with the left edge or folded edge first, ensuring the text is print-side up. This way, your guests can immediately read the invitation as they open the envelope.

And there you have it! Your wedding invitation, complete with tissue paper or vellum overlay, is now ready to be sent out to your loved ones.

Reception card placement

When it comes to placing the reception card in your wedding invitation, there are a few options to consider. Here are some instructions and suggestions to help you make a decision that best suits your needs:

• Insert Card: One option is to include an insert card for the reception details. This means that you will have the main invitation card with the ceremony information and then a separate card with the reception venue and timing. This is a classic choice and allows for a neat presentation of the information.
• Same Invitation: Another option is to include all the information on the same invitation card. You can list both the ceremony and reception locations with their respective addresses and times. This approach saves costs and ensures that your guests have all the information in one place, reducing the chances of losing separate cards.
• Reception Card with Additional Details: If you have more detailed information to share about the reception, such as accommodation options, travel instructions, or a wedding website, you can include a separate reception card. This card can provide guests with a more comprehensive overview of the reception arrangements.
• Mention on the Main Invitation: If you prefer a concise approach, you can simply mention "Reception to follow" on the main invitation card. This indicates that there will be a reception after the ceremony without providing immediate details. This option is particularly useful if you are still finalising the reception venue or want to keep the invitation wording concise.

Additional Considerations:

• Weight and Mailing Costs: Keep in mind that including multiple cards and inserts can increase the weight of your invitation suite, which may impact mailing costs. If you're concerned about expenses and want to keep postage costs down, opting for a single card with all the information or a brief mention of the reception might be more economical.
• Guest Convenience: Consider the convenience of your guests when deciding on the placement of reception card details. Multiple cards might be easier for guests to reference, especially if they need to locate the reception venue separately from the ceremony. On the other hand, a single card ensures that all the information is together, reducing the chances of misplacing important details.
• Space Constraints: Evaluate the amount of information you need to convey and the available space on your invitation card(s). If you have a lot of details to include, using a separate reception card might be more practical and visually appealing.
• Design Aesthetics: Think about the overall design and aesthetics of your invitation suite. Including an insert card can add a touch of elegance and provide more space for creative elements. If you're opting for the same invitation card, carefully lay out the information to ensure it's clear, readable, and aesthetically pleasing.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to reception card placement. Choose the option that best aligns with your personal preferences, the amount of information you need to convey, and the overall design of your wedding invitations.

Enclosure cards

Types of Enclosure Cards:

• Reception Card: This card announces the location and details of your wedding reception. It is usually placed face-up on top of the invitation. If you have a folded-style invitation, place the reception card within the fold instead of on top.
• Response Card and Envelope: The response card is a way for guests to confirm their attendance. Include a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for their convenience. Place the response card face-up under the envelope flap so that the printed side is visible.
• Map or Direction Card: Providing directions to your wedding venue is always a good idea. Include a map or direction card, especially if your venue is in a remote location or if you have guests travelling from out of town.
• Accommodations Card: If you have guests coming from out of town, an accommodations card with hotel options and recommendations is a thoughtful touch. You can also include information on transportation to and from the hotels to the wedding venue.
• Weekend Events Card: If your wedding festivities span multiple days or include events like welcome drinks, an after-party, or a day-after brunch, include a weekend events card with a full itinerary. This keeps guests informed and helps them plan their schedule.

Assembling the Enclosure Cards:

When assembling your wedding invitations, here's the order in which you should place the enclosure cards:

• Start with the invitation itself, placing it face-up on the table.
• If using tissue paper or a vellum overlay, place it on top of the invitation.
• Add the reception card, placing it face-up on top of the invitation or tissue paper.
• Place any remaining enclosure cards, such as map cards, accommodations cards, or weekend events cards, face-up on top of the reception card. If there are multiple enclosure cards, start with the largest and work your way to the smallest.
• Finally, place the response envelope face-down on top of the stack of enclosure cards, and tuck the response card under the envelope flap, face-up.

Remember, if you're using a folded-style invitation, all enclosures should be placed within the folds rather than on top.

RSVP card and envelope

When it comes to the RSVP card and envelope, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure that your guests can respond promptly and accurately. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Preparing the RSVP Card and Envelope

• Order your RSVP cards when you order your wedding invitations to ensure coordination and timely mailing.
• Include postage on the RSVP envelope. It is convenient and polite to provide a pre-stamped envelope for your guests.
• Print the address on the RSVP envelope. Make it easy for your guests by providing the address to which the cards should be mailed.
• Address the envelope to the person responsible for collecting and organizing the responses. This could be you, your wedding planner, or someone else involved in the planning process.

Assembling the Wedding Invitation Suite with the RSVP Card

• Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the other enclosure cards.
• Insert the RSVP card under the flap of the envelope, ensuring it is face-up so that the printed side is visible.
• If using a folded-style invitation, place all enclosures, including the RSVP card and envelope, within the folded invitation.
• If using an inner and outer envelope, insert the assembled invitation suite into the inner envelope first, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge first for a folded invitation. Then, insert the inner envelope into the outer envelope.
• If using a single envelope, insert the assembled invitation suite directly into the envelope, following the same guidelines for which edge goes in first.

RSVP Card Wording and Etiquette

• Include an RSVP deadline of at least one month before the wedding date.
• Provide an attendance line where guests can indicate their response, such as "accept with pleasure" or "decline with regret".
• If serving a plated meal, include an entree selection instruction line to allow guests to choose their preferred option.
• The RSVP card can also be used to gather other helpful information, such as transportation arrangements or dietary preferences.

Inner and outer envelopes

The use of inner and outer envelopes for wedding invitations is a tradition that dates back to the days of horse-drawn carriages. The outer envelope would get dirty and damaged during transit, and the inner envelope would protect the invitation suite. Today, the tradition persists, and couples use two envelopes for added formality and to clear up any confusion about who is invited.

The outer envelope is addressed to the heads of the household, while the inner envelope lists the names of every invitee, including children or additional family members. This way, you can specify who is invited to an adults-only wedding, for example. The inner envelope is smaller and only includes the titles and last names of the guests. It is also left unsealed.

When assembling your invitations, insert the invitation into the inner envelope with the front facing the open flap. If you are using tissue paper, place it between each layer now. Then, place the reception card face-up on top of the invitation, followed by any other enclosure cards, such as maps or hotel accommodation details. Finally, place the reply envelope on top of the enclosure cards, with the reply card tucked under its flap, face-up.

After assembling the inner envelope, slip it into the outer envelope with the names facing the back flap. This way, when the guest opens the outer envelope, they will see the printed side of the invitation.

Frequently asked questions