The Art Of Stuffing: Wedding Invitation Etiquette

Stuffing wedding invitations can be a tricky task, but it's an important part of setting the tone for your big day. The process involves gathering all the necessary pieces, such as the invitation card, response card, reception card, and enclosure cards, and assembling them neatly before placing them into envelopes. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you correctly stuff your wedding invitations:

1. Start with the invitation card: Place the invitation card, which is the largest card, face up on a table. This card includes the names of the couple, the wedding date, time, and venue.

2. Add vellum or tissue paper (optional): Traditionally, a thin sheet of vellum or tissue paper was used to prevent ink smudges. If you choose to include it, place the vellum or tissue paper on top of the invitation card.

3. Stack the reception card: If you have a separate reception card, place it face up on top of the invitation card. This card includes the reception venue, time, and any dress code information.

4. Add other enclosure cards: Place any additional enclosure cards, such as maps, accommodation details, or travel information, face up on top of the reception card. If there are multiple enclosure cards, arrange them from largest to smallest.

5. Include the RSVP card and envelope: Place the RSVP envelope face down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the left. Insert the RSVP card under the envelope flap, face up, so that the printed side is visible. Pre-address and stamp the RSVP envelope.

6. Assemble and insert into the inner envelope (optional): If using an inner and outer envelope system, assemble all the pieces together and insert them into the inner envelope. The invitation should face the open flap of the envelope.

7. Insert into the outer envelope: Place the fully assembled invitation suite or the inner envelope into the outer envelope. The printed side of the invitation should be visible when the envelope flap is opened.

8. Seal and address the envelope: Use an envelope moistener or a wax seal to securely close the envelope. Add return address labels or stamps to complete the process.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your wedding invitations are correctly stuffed and ready to be sent out to your guests.

The order of the invitation suite

Step 1: The Main Invitation Card

The invitation card is the largest card and serves as the base for the rest of the suite. Place it at the bottom of the stack, with the printed side facing up. This card includes the names of the couple, the date, time, and location of the wedding.

Step 2: Vellum Liners (Optional)

If you have chosen to include a thin sheet of vellum to prevent smudging, place it on top of the invitation card.

Step 3: Reception Card (Optional)

If you are providing separate cards for reception details, place the reception card face-up on top of the invitation card.

Step 4: Additional Enclosure Cards (Optional)

Place any other enclosure cards, such as direction/detail cards, map cards, or hotel accommodation cards, face-up on top of the reception card. If there are multiple enclosure cards of different sizes, start with the largest and work your way down.

Step 5: RSVP Card and Envelope

The response or RSVP card is an essential element of the invitation suite. Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the right side. Insert the reply card under the envelope flap, face-up, so that the printed side is visible. Don't forget to pre-address and stamp the RSVP envelope.

Step 6: Finishing Touches (Optional)

If you have chosen to include a belly band, ribbon, or vellum wrap, assemble it now. These elements add a stylish touch and hold your invitation suite together neatly.

Step 7: Insert into Envelope

Now, your invitation suite is ready to be placed into the envelope. If using a single envelope, insert the suite with the left edge first for a single card or the folded edge first for a folded invitation. The text on the invitation card should be facing up, so guests can read it immediately when they open the envelope.

Optional Elements:

• Inner Envelope: Traditionally, an inner envelope was used to protect the invitation suite and indicate which specific guests were invited. If using an inner envelope, place the assembled suite inside, with the names of the invited guests visible when the envelope is opened.
• Return Address: Don't forget to include your return address on the outer envelope, either on the back flap or elsewhere.
• Envelope Liners: Envelope liners add a touch of elegance and can be coordinated with your invitation design.
• Wax Seal: A wax seal is a beautiful way to secure your envelope, especially if you have chosen a vellum jacket or inner envelope.

Now, your wedding invitation suite is ready to be mailed! Be sure to weigh your assembled invitation at the post office to ensure you have the correct postage.

Using tissue paper or vellum

• Preparation: Clear a table and ensure it is clean—you don't want any spills or stains on your invitations! Gather all the necessary pieces, including the invitation, tissue paper or vellum, reception card, enclosure cards (such as maps or accommodation details), and RSVP card with its envelope.
• Start with the invitation: Place the wedding invitation face up on the table. This is usually the largest card and will form the base of your suite.
• Layer on the tissue paper or vellum: If you have chosen to use tissue paper or vellum, place it on top of the wedding invitation. Traditionally, this was used to prevent ink smudging, but it has become a stylistic choice as well. Remember, choose either tissue paper or vellum; you'll want to use one or the other.
• Add the reception card: Place the reception card, if applicable, face-up on top of the invitation or tissue paper. This card includes the time, location, and any other important details of the wedding reception.
• Include other enclosure cards: Add any remaining enclosure cards, such as maps or hotel accommodation details, 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.
• Don't forget the RSVP card: Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards. Then, 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.
• Assemble the suite: At this point, you have assembled the entire invitation suite. If using two envelopes (inner and outer), insert the suite into the inner envelope, ensuring the printed side of the invitation is visible when the envelope flap is opened. Then, place the inner envelope into the outer envelope so that the guests' names are visible when they open it. If using a single envelope, insert the fully assembled suite with the printed side of the invitation facing the envelope flap.
• Final touches: Add any final touches, such as belly bands, ribbons, or wax seals, to complete the look of your invitation suite.

Remember, the use of tissue paper or vellum is optional, but it can add a traditional and elegant touch to your wedding invitations.

The RSVP card

Firstly, if you've chosen a traditional mailed RSVP card, ensure you have two elements: the RSVP card itself (also called a reply card) and a corresponding envelope. The envelope should be pre-printed with the mailing address and pre-stamped to make it easier for your guests to respond.

Placement in the Invitation Suite:

When assembling your invitation suite, the RSVP card and envelope should be placed together. The envelope goes on top of any other enclosure cards, such as direction or accommodation cards, with the flap on the left and the printed side facing down. The RSVP card is then tucked under the envelope flap, ensuring the printed side is visible. This way, your guests will immediately see the RSVP card upon opening the invitation.

Order of Assembly:

The order of assembly is important. Start with the main invitation card, which is usually the largest. Then, add any vellum or tissue paper liners, followed by the reception card, and any other enclosure cards. Finally, place the RSVP card and envelope on top, as described above. If your invitation is a folded style, all enclosures, including the RSVP card and envelope, go inside the fold rather than on top.

Inner and Outer Envelopes:

Traditionally, wedding invitations used inner and outer envelopes. If you're using this style, place the fully assembled invitation suite into the inner envelope, ensuring the text is visible when the flap is opened. Then, insert the inner envelope into the outer envelope so that the guests' names are visible. However, using a single outer envelope is now more common and sustainable.

Final Checks:

Before sealing your envelopes, double-check that you've included all necessary components and that they're in the correct order. Also, ensure your RSVP envelope is pre-addressed and pre-stamped. This extra step will make a significant difference in ensuring you receive timely responses from your guests.

Assembly Tips:

Consider hosting an invitation assembly party with friends and family. It will make the process more enjoyable, and you can assign specific tasks to make it more efficient. Don't forget to weigh a fully assembled invitation at the post office to determine the exact postage required. Using envelope moisteners and address labels or stamps can also streamline the process.

Enclosure cards

Types of Enclosure Cards:

• Reception Card: This card provides details about the wedding reception, such as the time, location, and dress code. It is usually placed face-up on top of the invitation or tissue paper.
• Direction or Map Card: This card includes directions to the wedding venue and is especially helpful for guests who may not be familiar with the area or those without access to digital maps.
• Accommodations or Hotel Card: If you have guests coming from out of town, this card provides information on hotel options and recommendations. It is a thoughtful way to assist your guests in making their travel arrangements.
• Weekend Events or Itinerary Card: For weddings spanning multiple days and events, this card provides guests with a full itinerary. It includes information on welcome drinks, after-parties, brunches, and any other activities planned for the wedding weekend.

Assembling the Enclosure Cards:

When assembling your wedding invitations, here's how you can organise the enclosure cards:

• Stacking Order: Place the enclosure cards on top of the reception card, with the printed side facing up. If there are multiple enclosure cards, arrange them from largest to smallest, with the largest card at the bottom.
• RSVP Card and Envelope: Add the RSVP card and envelope to the stack. Place the envelope printed side down, with the flap on the left, and insert the reply card under the flap, printed side up. Don't forget to pre-address and stamp the reply envelope.
• Assembly Line: Create an assembly line for your invitations. Lay out all the necessary pieces, including the invitation, enclosure cards, and envelopes. This will streamline the process and make it more efficient.
• Inner Envelope (Optional): Traditionally, wedding invitations included an inner and outer envelope. The inner envelope holds the invitation and indicates who is specifically invited. If you choose to use an inner envelope, leave it unsealed and place it inside the outer envelope.
• Belly Bands or Ribbons: If you want to add a finishing touch, consider using a belly band or ribbon to hold all the pieces together. Personalise it with your names, wedding date, or a special message.

Remember, the key to assembling enclosure cards is to provide clear and concise information for your guests. Choose a legible font, and ensure that all relevant details are included. By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to creating elegant and informative wedding invitation suites.

Belly bands, ribbons, and wax seals

Belly bands are a piece of paper, usually 1-2 inches thick, that wraps around an invitation suite. They can be made of solid paper, patterned paper, or custom-designed paper. To apply a belly band, first, measure the width of your invitation, double it, and add one more inch so that the ends overlap. Then, wrap and glue the band around the invitation first, before adding the rest of the suite. This prevents the paper from stretching.

Ribbons can be used in a similar way to belly bands, to wrap around and secure your invitation suite. Silk ribbon is a popular choice, with its gorgeous raw edges and organic texture. You can use ribbon widths ranging from 1/8 of an inch to 2 or 3 inches, depending on how much of a statement you want to make. When using ribbon, be aware that a knot will usually be required, which will incur a "nonmachinable surcharge" of $0.15.

Wax seals are a versatile and on-trend addition to wedding invitations. They can be used in a traditional way, on an envelope, or in more unique ways, such as on a belly band, directly on the invitation, or with a piece of ribbon. To use a wax seal, you will need wax paper, ribbon, sealing wax, a wax stamp, a lighter, and a palate knife. Cut the wax paper slightly smaller than your invitation, then place it on top of your invitation and wrap the ribbon around, holding it snug. Light the sealing wax with the lighter and allow it to drip onto the ribbon, before applying the seal to the wax. Allow the wax to cool for around 10 seconds, then gently rock the seal back and forth to free it from the wax. Finally, use the palate knife to separate the wax from the wax paper, and trim the ribbon.

Frequently asked questions