Mailing Delicate Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Silk box wedding invitations are a luxurious and unique way to invite guests to your wedding. In a world of digital invites, sending a physical invitation in an elegant silk box is a great way to make your guests feel special.

If you're planning to mail silk box wedding invitations, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, it's important to order extra invitations as around 3% of mail goes missing. You'll also need to consider the weight and dimensions of your invitations, as this will impact the postage cost. It's a good idea to take a sample invitation to the post office to get an accurate weight and determine the exact postage required.

Another thing to keep in mind is the return address format. While you may prefer the return address on the flap of the envelope, it's recommended to keep it on the same side as the guest address to avoid confusion for the postal service.

Finally, it's recommended to mail your wedding invitations 8-12 weeks before your wedding. If you're having a destination wedding, it's a good idea to mail them even earlier so that guests have enough time to make travel plans.

Choosing a silk box design

When choosing a silk box design for your wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the size and shape of the box. Silk invitation boxes come in various sizes and shapes, such as square or rectangular, to accommodate different invitation card dimensions. Consider whether you want a classic silk box with a fully detachable lid or a hinged lid box that opens like a treasure chest. The latter adds a layer of intrigue as guests open the box to discover the invitation inside.

Next, select the type of silk fabric and colour that best represents your personal style and wedding theme. Plain silk boxes in neutral colours like black, white, ivory, or blush pink exude simplicity and elegance. On the other hand, you can opt for luxurious patterned silk fabrics like brocade or embroidered silk for a more opulent look. Consider adorning the box with embellishments like silk or lace ribbons, rhinestones, gems, or a shiny brooch for added glamour.

Additionally, you may want to customise the box further by adding a monogram, foil stamping, or silk-screen printing. This could include your initials, wedding date, or a meaningful design that ties in with your wedding theme. Personalisation options allow you to create a unique invitation box that reflects your taste and the tone of your wedding celebration.

Finally, don't forget to browse through the various closure types available, such as magnetic closures, ribbon ties, or elastic bands. The closure you choose can also add a unique touch to your silk box design, making it a memorable keepsake for your guests.

Customising the colour

Silk box wedding invitations are a luxurious and elegant way to invite guests to your wedding. When customising the colour of your silk box invitations, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

Firstly, consider the overall colour scheme of your wedding. You may want to choose a colour for your invitations that complements your wedding colours or theme. This could be a shade that matches your bridesmaids' dresses, the groomsmen's ties, or the flowers in your bouquet. Choosing a colour that ties into your wedding theme will help to create a cohesive and stylish look for your special day.

Another factor to think about is the time of year your wedding will take place. For example, if you're having a summer wedding, you might opt for lighter and brighter colours such as blush pink, ivory, or gold. On the other hand, a winter wedding could inspire deeper and richer hues like navy, burgundy, or forest green. You can also consider any cultural or religious traditions associated with your wedding colours. For instance, red and gold are popular choices for Asian weddings, while blue is often used in Jewish wedding invitations.

In addition to the colour of the silk boxes themselves, you can also customise the colour of the printing or calligraphy on the invitations. The postal service recommends using darker ink colours such as charcoal, navy, or black on light-coloured envelopes to ensure readability. However, you can get creative and choose ink colours that complement your wedding palette or theme. Just be sure to avoid red ink, as it may not be recognised by postal machines, potentially causing delays or issues with delivery.

When selecting the colour for your silk box wedding invitations, it's important to consider not only aesthetics but also practicality and legibility. You want to ensure that your invitations are easy to read and won't get held up in the mail. By choosing colours that are both beautiful and functional, you can create elegant invitations that smoothly arrive in your guests' mailboxes.

Adding embellishments

Ribbons and Bows

Add a touch of elegance with a delicate ribbon or bow. You can choose a colour that complements your wedding theme or opt for a neutral shade like ivory, blush pink, or cream. A ribbon can be functional too, as guests can use it to tuck in their RSVP cards.

Rhinestones and Brooches

For a touch of sparkle and glamour, embellish your invitation with rhinestones or brooches. You can choose from various styles, including crown, butterfly, or modern crystal designs. These embellishments can be added to the ribbon or directly onto the silk box.

Embroideries and Stamps

Monogram embroideries or foil-stamped crests are a sophisticated way to personalise your invitations. You can add your initials or a design that reflects your wedding theme.

Lace and Fabric

Using lace or fabric, such as Thai silk, suede, or velvet, adds a luxurious and textured element to your invitations. Consider a lace envelope liner or a silk ribbon wrapped around your invitation.

Pearls

Pearls are a classic and elegant embellishment. You can add a string of pearls or individual pearl accents to your invitation, creating a sophisticated and timeless look.

Twine and Kraft Paper

For a rustic or natural-themed wedding, consider using twine to tie around your invitation, paired with a kraft paper backing card. This combination adds a simple yet charming touch to your stationery.

The options for embellishments are endless, and you can mix and match different elements to create unique and personalised silk box wedding invitations that will wow your guests.

Preparing for mailing

Organise Your Stationery:

Start by assembling your silk box invitations, ensuring that all the necessary items are included and neatly arranged inside each box. Check that the boxes are securely closed and ready for enveloping.

Order Extra Invitations:

It is recommended to order 7 extra invitations to account for potential losses in the mail, photographer/keepsake copies, and B-list invitees. This way, if any invitations go missing, you won't need to worry about the costly reprinting of a single invitation.

Addressing Envelopes:

The return address should be on the same side as the guest address to avoid confusion. To maintain aesthetics, consider placing the return address on the envelope flap. Keep the return address concise, with no names, and the zip code on the same line as the city/state. Using darker ink colours (charcoal, navy, or black) on light-coloured envelopes will ensure the addresses are clear and legible for postal machines.

Weigh Your Invitations:

Take one fully assembled invitation, complete with its envelope and any additional packaging, to your local post office to have it weighed. This will help you determine the exact postage required, which may be more than the basic Forever stamp rate. Knowing the weight will also help you calculate the total postage cost for your entire batch of invitations.

Determine Postage:

The weight and size of your silk box invitations will impact the postage cost. Square envelopes and additional elements like wax seals or thick ribbons may require a "nonmachinable surcharge" as they cannot go through the sorting machines. This surcharge is typically an additional $0.20 per envelope. Always check with your local post office to confirm any specific regulations or requirements.

Purchase Stamps:

After determining the required postage, purchase the necessary stamps. USPS.com offers specific stamps, but they have a 10-business-day processing time, so plan accordingly. You can also use vintage stamps or mix and match stamp values to reach the required postage amount.

Final Checks:

Before heading to the post office, double-check all the details, including addresses and postage. Proofreading addresses may not be the most exciting task, but it is crucial to ensure your invitations reach the correct destinations.

Secure Your Envelopes:

Instead of licking the envelope adhesive, use a cotton swab or paintbrush to moisten it. This makes it easier to secure the flap, especially on bulky invitations. You can also place the sealed envelopes under a heavy book or paperweight to reinforce the closure. If the adhesive is still not working, consider using a glue stick or double-sided tape as a last resort, but be aware that this may make it harder for guests to open the envelopes.

Now that you've completed these steps, you're ready to head to the post office and mail your silk box wedding invitations!

Sending internationally

Sending wedding invitations internationally can be a complex process, but with careful planning, your silk box invitations will reach their destination safely. Here are some detailed steps to ensure a smooth process:

Timing:

It is recommended to send international invitations 8–10 weeks before the wedding. This allows time for customs clearance and unexpected shipping delays. Your international guests will also need extra time to mail back their RSVPs, so consider providing a digital RSVP option as a faster alternative.

Postal Service:

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a reliable option for sending wedding invitations internationally. Check their website for country-specific guidelines on postage requirements and restrictions. However, be prepared for potential changes, as shipping services and restrictions can be updated. If the USPS no longer ships to your desired country, you may need to use an international courier such as FedEx or DHL.

Postage:

Double-checking the postage is crucial when sending invitations internationally. Mailing wedding invitations abroad is typically more expensive than domestic shipping. Ensure you have the correct amount of postage by taking a fully assembled invitation to your local post office for weighing. This will help you determine the exact postage required, which may be more than the basic Forever stamp rate.

Packaging:

To protect your silk box invitations during international transit, consider using mailer boxes or clear plastic sleeves for added protection from the elements. While this may increase postage costs, it will provide extra security. Alternatively, the traditional inner and outer envelope method can be used, with the outer envelope offering protection to the inner envelope containing the invitation.

Address Format:

To avoid confusion, the USPS recommends placing the return address on the same side as the guest address. However, this may not align with your aesthetic preferences for silk box invitations. To maintain the desired appearance, format the return address with no more than two lines, omitting names, and keeping the zip code and city/state on the same line. Using a darker ink colour on light-coloured envelopes will also enhance legibility.

Customs Clearance:

When sending invitations internationally, they will likely go through customs clearance. Be mindful of any restrictions or prohibited items that may cause issues during this process. Some countries have specific regulations regarding the import of silk products, so it is essential to research the destination country's guidelines to ensure your invitations comply with all necessary requirements.

Frequently asked questions