The Art Of Assembling Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitation assembly can be a confusing process for many couples, but it isn't rocket science. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly assemble a wedding invitation:

1. Get the main invitation card: Place the invitation card at the bottom, print side up.

2. Add vellum liners: If you choose to include a thin sheet of vellum, place it on top of the invitation card.

3. Stack the reception card: If you are using a reception card, place it face up on top of the wedding invite.

4. Stack other enclosure cards: Place any remaining enclosure cards, such as direction or detail cards, face up on top of the reception card.

5. Add a RSVP card and envelope to the suite: Place the RSVP envelope printed side down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the left. Insert the reply card under the envelope flap, face up.

6. Time for the finishing touch: If you are using a belly band, ribbon, or vellum wrap, assemble it now.

7. Recipient addressing: Address the envelopes using calligraphy or print the names and addresses directly on them.

8. Insert the whole suite into the envelope: Insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the envelope with the left edge first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge first for a folded invitation.

9. Seal the envelope: Use a bottled envelope moistener to wet the gummed edge of the envelope and place a heavy book on top to ensure it is securely sealed.

10. Return address: Apply address labels, rubber stamps, or skinny wraps to the envelopes.

11. Mail: Bring a fully assembled set to the post office to weigh and confirm the required postage. Then, hand-cancel the invitations at the post office instead of dropping them in a mailbox to reduce the risk of damage.

Order of assembly

The order of assembly for wedding invitations is important to get right, and it's worth taking your time to ensure that everything is included and in the correct order. Here is a step-by-step guide to assembling your wedding invitations:

• Start with the main invitation card, which is usually the largest card in the suite. Place this face up on the table.
• If you are using a sheet of tissue paper or vellum, place this on top of the invitation card. This is optional and is traditionally used to prevent smudging.
• Place the reception card on top of the invitation card (or tissue paper/vellum, if included). This card outlines the time and location of the wedding reception and may include other important information such as the dress code.
• Add any remaining enclosure cards, such as a map, hotel accommodations card, or travel information. Place these face up on top of the reception card, with the largest card on the bottom.
• Place the RSVP card under the flap of the RSVP envelope, ensuring that the printed side is visible. The envelope should be placed face down on top of the enclosure cards.
• If using a belly band, ribbon, or vellum wrap, assemble this now.
• Insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the envelope. The invitation should be placed face up so that the text is visible when the envelope is opened.
• Seal the envelope using an envelope moistener or a wax seal.
• Add the return address to the envelope.
• Take a fully assembled invitation to the post office to weigh and confirm the correct amount of postage required.

Once you have assembled and posted your invitations, you can start your final preparations for your big day!

Envelopes

Inner Envelope vs. Outer Envelope

First, it's important to know that there are typically two types of envelopes used for wedding invitations: inner envelopes and outer envelopes. The inner envelope is a more traditional element and was originally used to protect the invitation suite during transit. Today, it is not as common, but some couples choose to include it for a more formal and ornate look. If you decide to use an inner envelope, it is typically left unsealed and placed inside the outer envelope. The outer envelope is the standard mailing envelope and will have the guests' names and addresses printed or written on it.

Assembling the Envelopes

When assembling the envelopes, the first step is to address them. Traditionally, calligraphy was used for envelope addressing, but nowadays, printing the addresses directly on the envelopes is also a popular option. If you choose to use calligraphy, be sure to allow enough time for this process, as it can take a few weeks.

Once your envelopes are addressed, it's time to insert the invitation suite. If you are using an inner envelope, place the assembled invitation suite (more on assembling the suite later) into the inner envelope, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge first for a folded invitation. Ensure that the text on the invitation is facing up, so guests can see it immediately when they open the envelope. Then, place the inner envelope inside the outer envelope, making sure that the guests' names on the inner envelope are visible when opened.

If you are using only an outer envelope, simply insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the envelope following the same guidelines: left edge first for a single-card invitation or folded edge first for a folded invitation, with the text facing up.

Envelope Liners

To add a touch of elegance to your envelopes, you can use envelope liners. These are placed inside the envelope and can be made of foil or paper. Foil-lined envelopes typically come pre-assembled, while paper liners usually have an adhesive strip and need to be slipped into the envelope. Make sure to slide the liner in carefully and press it firmly to ensure it is secure.

Sealing and Addressing

After inserting the invitation suite, it's time to seal the envelopes. Use an envelope moistener to wet the gummed edge, being careful not to use too much liquid. Place a heavy book on top of the sealed envelopes to ensure they are securely closed.

Add your return address labels or stamps to the back of the envelopes. If you are using vintage stamps, take note that these may require additional postage.

Postage

Speaking of postage, it's important to calculate the correct amount. Wedding invitation suites tend to be heavier due to multiple enclosure cards, so a standard stamp may not be enough. Take a fully assembled and stuffed envelope to the post office to have it weighed, and purchase the appropriate amount of postage.

Timing

Finally, keep in mind the timing of assembling and sending your wedding invitations. Plan to assemble them at least a week before you want to mail them, especially if you are adding extras like wax seals or belly bands. Stuff your invitations right after assembling them to streamline the process. Allow enough time for any errors or last-minute adjustments. Wedding etiquette suggests sending out invitations 4-6 weeks before the wedding, so plan your assembly process accordingly.

RSVP cards

• Choose your RSVP card design: Select a design that complements your wedding invitation and overall wedding theme. You can choose matching designs for a cohesive look or mix things up with a different design that still complements your invitation suite. Consider the printing type, colours, fonts, and paper type to create a unique and personalised card.
• Include essential elements: Ensure your RSVP cards have all the necessary elements. This includes a clear indication for guests to fill out and return the card, such as "RSVP", "Reply", "Kindly respond", or "Please reply". Include a line for guests to write their names, such as an "M" line for formal weddings or a more straightforward "Name(s)" line.
• Set a deadline: Set a deadline for guests to respond, usually about 2-3 weeks before your wedding date. This will give you enough time to contact non-respondents and finalise details with your caterer. Make sure the deadline is prominently displayed on the card.
• Accepts/Regrets line: Include a line for guests to indicate whether they accept or regret coming to the wedding. You can have fun with the wording, such as "will attend", "will not attend", "graciously accepts", or "regretfully declines".
• Optional details: Depending on your wedding plans, you may want to include additional details on the RSVP card. This could be a line for the number of guests attending, meal selections if you're offering multiple entrée options, or any special dietary restrictions or allergies. You can also add playful elements, such as song requests or advice for the newlyweds.
• Pre-address and pre-stamp envelopes: Save your guests the hassle by providing pre-addressed and pre-stamped envelopes for the RSVP cards. This will increase the likelihood of receiving responses and save your guests the extra step of finding postage.
• Assembly: Place the RSVP card face-up on top of the stack of enclosure cards, with the printed side visible. If using a folded-style invitation, place the RSVP card inside the fold. If using an inner envelope, insert the RSVP card and its envelope into the inner envelope, then place the inner envelope into the outer envelope. Otherwise, insert the RSVP card and its envelope directly into the outer envelope.
• Final checks: Before sealing and mailing your invitations, double-check that all components are included and correctly assembled. Check for any spelling errors, ink smudges, or stains on the cards and envelopes.

Tissue paper

Step 1: Prepare the Tissue Paper

Before you begin assembling your invitations, cut the tissue paper to the appropriate size. The tissue paper should be slightly larger than the invitation card, allowing it to cover the wording and protect the ink. You can also choose to use pre-cut tissue paper, which is typically available in standard sizes.

Step 2: Start with the Invitation Card

Place the main invitation card, face up, on your work surface. This card is usually the largest in the suite, so it serves as the base for the rest of the assembly.

Step 3: Add the Tissue Paper

Lay the tissue paper gently over the invitation card. If you want to include additional cards, such as reception or enclosure cards, you can place them on top of the tissue paper. However, if you prefer a more traditional approach, you can also place a layer of tissue paper between each card.

Step 4: Layer on Other Cards

If you have a reception card, place it face-up on top of the tissue paper. This card provides details about the time and location of the wedding reception, including any specific dress code requests.

Step 5: Include Enclosure Cards

Add any remaining enclosure cards, such as maps, hotel accommodation cards, or travel information. If there are multiple enclosure cards, start with the largest and work your way down to the smallest. Place them face-up on top of the stack.

Step 6: Finalize the Assembly

If you are using a response card and envelope, place the reply envelope face-down on top of the stack, with the flap facing away from you. Insert the response card under the envelope flap, ensuring that the printed side is visible.

Step 7: Insert into the Envelope

If you are using both an inner and outer envelope, place the fully assembled invitation suite into the inner envelope first, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge for a folded invitation. Then, insert the inner envelope into the outer envelope.

If you are using a single envelope, simply insert the fully assembled suite into the outer envelope, following the same guidelines for the left or folded edge.

Your wedding invitations are now ready to be sealed and mailed!

Adornments

One option is to use a belly band, a ribbon, or a vellum wrap to secure your invitation suite together. Belly bands are narrow strips of paper that are designed to wrap around your invitations and can be personalised with your names, the wedding date, or a meaningful message. Vellum wraps are another option, providing a similar function to belly bands but with a more translucent, delicate appearance. Ribbons are also a popular choice, with silk ribbons complementing romantic affairs and string working well for Western-inspired gatherings.

Wax seals are another adornment option, adding a traditional, elegant touch to your invitations. They can be used to seal the envelope, or as a decorative element on the invitation itself.

For a modern look, consider using double-sided tape to attach your adornments, rather than glue, for a flat, mess-free finish.

If you want to add a touch of glamour to your invitations, consider using gold foil. Gold foil is a great way to elevate a simple design and is perfect for glamorous or romantic weddings. Gold foil can be used to accent your text or to create a border around your invitation.

Finally, don't forget the envelope! Envelope liners can add a touch of elegance to your invitations, with foil-lined envelopes or customisable slip-in liners available. Choose a colour or pattern that complements your invitation design and don't forget to seal the envelope with a wax seal or a sticker for a secure closure.

Frequently asked questions