Seal And Send: Wedding Invitation Etiquette

There are many ways to close wedding invitations, and using frayed ribbons is an indispensable detail that makes all the difference. They close, finish, add colour and enhance the entire invitation experience. Depending on the effect you want to achieve, there are several ways to tie the ribbon around the envelope. Here are three of the most common ways:

1. Simple closure: just a knot!

2. The classic: the bow

3. The refined elegance: ribbon and wax seal

Simple knot

Tying a simple knot is a timeless option that is neutral and a natural classic. It is an easier, minimal option, suitable for any type of invitation.

To close your wedding invitations with a simple knot, follow these steps:

• Choose a ribbon that complements the colour and style of your wedding invitations. Consider the effect you want to achieve—a simple knot can be chic and timeless.
• Measure the ribbon. For a standard-sized envelope, you will need a ribbon that is slightly longer than double the width of the envelope. This will give you enough length to tie a knot.
• Cut the ribbon to the desired length. You can cut the ends straight for a clean and elegant look.
• Take the ribbon and wrap it around the closed envelope, centring it in the middle.
• Tie a simple knot at the centre, ensuring it is not too tight or too loose. You want it to be secure but also easy to untie.
• Adjust the ribbon and knot as needed to ensure a refined and elegant presentation.

By following these steps, you will be able to create a simple and elegant closure for your wedding invitations, adding a special touch to your wedding stationery.

Classic bow

The classic bow is a timeless option for wedding invitations, exuding elegance and romance. Here are some tips and instructions for creating this style:

Choosing the Right Ribbon

The type of ribbon you choose will depend on the overall style and theme of your wedding. For a formal and luxurious look, opt for a wider ribbon, such as a 25mm satin ribbon. If you prefer a more casual feel, a skinnier ribbon, like 10mm, would be a better choice. Satin ribbons are a popular option, adding a touch of elegance and a hint of colour to your invitations. You can also choose from a variety of colours to match your wedding colour scheme, such as ivory, blush pink, or black.

Tying the Classic Bow

To create a classic bow, start by cutting your chosen ribbon to the desired length, ensuring it is long enough to tie around your invitation comfortably. Place the invitation in the centre of the ribbon and bring the ends towards the middle, tying a knot. You can then tie a second knot over the first one to secure it in place. Adjust the bow loops to ensure they are even and balanced, creating a symmetrical look. Finally, cut the tails of the ribbon to your preferred length. For a neat and elegant finish, cut the tails straight across. Alternatively, you can add a playful touch by cutting them along the diagonal.

Additional Tips

When addressing your guests' names on the invitations, it is essential to use proper titles and spelling. Be sure to check the grammar, layout, and accuracy of all the information, including dates, times, and locations. If you're feeling creative, you can even add embellishments to your classic bow, such as small pearls or crystal decorations.

Refined elegance: ribbon and wax seal

Adding a ribbon and wax seal to your wedding invitations is a beautiful way to elevate your stationery and create a refined and elegant look. Here are some tips and ideas to achieve this timeless aesthetic:

Selecting the Right Ribbon

When choosing a ribbon for your wedding invitations, consider the type of ribbon and the colour. Silk ribbons offer a more formal and romantic feel, while frayed edge cotton ribbons provide an organic and elegant look. You can select from a variety of colours to match your wedding theme, such as ivory, blush, sage, and gold. The standard width for ribbons is typically 1/2", but you can also find options in 1" and 2" widths.

Customising Your Wax Seal

Wax seals add a touch of timeless elegance and can be customised to match your wedding invitations. You can choose from pre-designed colour options or create a custom colour to complement your chosen ribbon. Consider incorporating metallic flecks, small floral stems, or confetti into your wax seal for a unique touch. If you want to include your initials or personalised text, many sellers offer customisation options.

Assembling the Invitation Suite

When assembling your invitation suite, you can wrap the ribbon around the invitation, crossing it at the front and sealing it with the wax seal. This creates a refined and elegant look. If you prefer a more organic appearance, you can apply the wax seal directly to a string or ribbon. Remember to consider the thickness of the ribbon and the overall thickness of the envelope to avoid incurring extra postage costs.

Pre-made Kits

To make the process easier, you can purchase pre-made kits that include pre-cut lengths of ribbon and adhesive-backed pre-stamped wax seals. These kits provide simple instructions and make assembling your invitations as easy as tying your shoes! You can also find kits that include additional items such as envelopes, envelope liners, and belly bands.

Postage Considerations

When incorporating wax seals and ribbons into your wedding invitations, it's important to consider the potential impact on postage costs. Wax seals introduce a rigid element to the invitation, making it "non-machinable" and unable to pass through sorting machines easily. This may result in extra postage costs, typically requiring just one additional stamp. Using inner envelopes can help protect your wax seal and invitation during the mailing process.

Length of ribbon

The length of the ribbon you need to close your wedding invitations depends on the style you want to achieve.

If you're going for a simple knot, a good rule of thumb is to cut a piece of ribbon that is about double the width of your invitation. This will give you enough length to tie a neat knot without having too much excess ribbon.

If you prefer a more classic look with a bow, you'll need a longer ribbon. Aim for a length that is about two and a half times the width of the envelope. This will give you enough ribbon to create a balanced bow with tails that don't exceed the envelope.

For a truly unique touch, you can combine a ribbon and a wax seal. In this case, the ribbon length should be slightly more than double the width of the envelope. This will ensure the ribbon securely closes the invitation, with the wax seal adding a magical, personalised touch.

To calculate the total ribbon length required, consider the number of invitations you need. Multiply the length of ribbon per invitation by the number of invitations. This will give you the total length needed. It's always a good idea to order extra ribbon to account for any mistakes or last-minute additions.

With these tips, you can create elegant and refined wedding invitations that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

How much ribbon to buy?

The amount of ribbon you need to buy depends on the style of your wedding invitations, the type of closure you want, and the size of your envelopes.

If you want to wrap the ribbon once around the middle of your invitations, measure the width of your invitation suite and double it, then add an extra three inches for a knot or five for a bow.

If you want to wrap your invitations like a parcel, measure both the width and the height, add these dimensions, and double the total. Then, add three inches for a knot or five for a bow.

If you want to add a wax seal, you will need approximately 12 inches of ribbon per invitation.

For a simple knot, you will need approximately 18-20 inches of ribbon.

For a bow, you will need 24-30 inches of ribbon.

It is recommended that you buy extra ribbon to account for mistakes or last-minute invitations.

Frequently asked questions