The Art Of Stuffing Wedding Invites: Tissue Technique

Wedding invitations are a fun part of the wedding planning process, but assembling them can be confusing for many couples. Traditionally, tissue paper was used to prevent ink from smearing, but with modern printing techniques, this is no longer a requirement. If you choose to include tissue paper, place it on top of the invitation card. The general rule for assembling wedding invitations is to start with the largest card and place all other cards on top of it in order of size. The invitation card should be placed face up, with the text legible as the recipient removes it from the envelope. The reception card, response card, and any enclosure cards, such as a map or accommodation card, are then added in the same orientation. Finally, the RSVP card is placed under the flap of the response envelope, also face up. With all the cards assembled, they can be inserted into the inner envelope, followed by the outer envelope, with the text of the invitation card facing up.

The Purpose of Tissue Paper

Tissue paper has been a part of the wedding invitation tradition for hundreds of years. It is a thin, delicate, slightly translucent paper, usually white or cream, that serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it is practical. The tissue paper is placed over the invitation card and sometimes between each card in the ensemble. Its primary purpose is to prevent ink smudging during the mailing process. In the past, invitations were written by hand, and tissue was used to blot excess ink. Today, some printing methods and designs are still prone to smudging, scratching, or damage during mailing, so tissue paper provides a layer of protection.

Secondly, tissue paper adds to the aesthetics of the invitation. It offers a nice, organised, and formal presentation. The soft, cloudy appearance of the tissue, separating the layers and cards, keeps the invitation neat and elegant. It is cut to standard sizes, just enough to cover the wording on the invite.

Thirdly, the use of tissue paper is rooted in tradition. While it may not be necessary to prevent smudging with modern printing techniques, the tradition has endured. Brides continued to include tissue paper in their invitations, unaware of its original purpose, thus making it "proper". Today, it is a matter of choice whether to include tissue paper or not. Some brides may prefer to uphold the tradition, while others may opt for a more contemporary look.

If you decide to use tissue paper, it is typically placed over the invitation card, with any enclosure cards stacked on top. The tissue paper adds a subtle touch of elegance to your wedding invitations and ensures that they arrive in pristine condition.

When to Use Tissue Paper

Tissue paper is optional when assembling your wedding invitation suite. Traditionally, tissue paper was used to prevent ink from smearing or smudging. However, with modern printing techniques, smudging is no longer a concern for most invitations. Therefore, the use of tissue paper is now a matter of personal preference and style.

If you choose to include tissue paper, it should be placed between each layer of your invitation suite. Start by placing the tissue paper on top of the main invitation card, which is typically the largest card in the suite. Then, follow the standard assembly order by placing the reception card, response card, and any other enclosure cards on top of the tissue paper, with the printed side facing up.

It's important to note that if your invitation is a folded card, the tissue paper and enclosures will be placed within the folded invitation rather than on top. Additionally, if you are using a belly band, ribbon, or vellum wrap to secure your invitation suite, make sure to assemble this after placing the tissue paper and before inserting the suite into the envelope.

When using tissue paper, it is recommended to assemble your invitations on a clean surface to avoid any smudges or stains. Take your time and handle each piece with care to ensure that your invitations look elegant and refined.

How to Place Tissue Paper

If you choose to include tissue paper in your wedding invitation, it's important to place it correctly. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to place the tissue paper:

• Start with the wedding invitation itself. Place it face up on a table, as this will be the base of your assembly.
• Layer the tissue paper on top of the invitation. Traditionally, tissue paper was used to prevent ink smudging, but it has become more of a stylistic choice today.
• Continue building your invitation suite by adding the reception card, any enclosure cards, and the RSVP card with its envelope.
• Once you have assembled all the components, place the stack into the inner envelope, if using one. The invitation should be facing the open flap of the envelope.
• Finally, insert the inner envelope into the outer envelope, making sure the guests' names are visible when the envelope is opened.

Remember, the key is to create a neat and organised stack, with the tissue paper adding a touch of elegance to your invitation suite.

Tissue Paper Alternatives

Tissue paper is a thin, delicate, slightly translucent paper that is placed over an invitation card and sometimes between each card in the ensemble. It is used for aesthetic reasons, separating layers and keeping the invitations neat and elegant.

If you are looking for an alternative to tissue paper, here are some options:

Vellum

A contemporary alternative to tissue paper is vellum. It is a thin, delicate sheet that offers more translucency and a more modern look. It is offered in a variety of colours and sizes and can be easily cut to custom sizes. Vellum can also be printed with custom text and designs, whereas tissue paper cannot. However, if your main concern is ink smudging, tissue paper is recommended over vellum as the latter's hardened, almost plastic-like feel may worsen smudging.

Belly Bands

Belly bands are narrow strips of paper that are designed to wrap around your wedding stationery suite. They can be customised with names, initials, dates, or messages. They are a great way to add a personal touch and secure your invitation suite without using tape or glue.

Wax Seals

Wax seals add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your wedding invitations. They can be used to hold the flaps of envelopes closed or to secure folded invitations.

Silk Ribbons

Silk ribbons are a charming and romantic way to tie your wedding invitations together. They come in various colours and widths and can be cut to the desired length. Tying your invitations with silk ribbons can be a bit challenging, but the result is definitely worth it.

Envelope Liners

Envelope liners are inserted into the envelope and give a nice surprise element when the recipient opens the envelope. They come in various colours and designs and can be easily assembled.

Tissue Paper and Belly Bands

Belly bands are a great way to add a finishing touch to your wedding invitation suite. They are strips of paper that wrap around your invitation suite, keeping all the cards together neatly. You can customise them with your names, initials, wedding date, or a meaningful message. They come in a variety of designs, paper stocks, and finishes to match your wedding stationery.

Step 1: Stack Your Invitation Suite

Place your invitation suite neatly in a stack, with the invitation card at the bottom, facing up. Then, add the remaining enclosure cards in size order, from largest to smallest. The reception card goes on top of the invitation card, followed by any other enclosure cards such as direction or detail cards, map cards, or hotel accommodation cards.

Step 2: Prepare the Belly Band

Place the belly band next to the stacked invitation suite, face down, on a flat surface. The belly band should have pre-scored flaps that fold easily.

Step 3: Centre the Belly Band

Carefully flip your stacked invitation suite over and centre it over the belly band. The printed side of the invitation suite should now be facing down.

Step 4: Fold and Secure the Belly Band

Once the invitation suite is centred and lying flat on the band, fold the scored flaps of the belly band over the suite. Secure the flaps with a small piece of invisible tape. You can also use the included clear stickers that come with some belly bands.

Step 5: Insert into Envelope

Finally, slip your wrapped invitation suite into the envelope with the top card facing up. This ensures that your guests will see the printed side of the invitation as soon as they open the envelope.

Additional Tips:

• If you are using tissue paper, place it between each layer of your invitation suite before wrapping the belly band around.
• If you are using a response card and envelope, place the envelope printed side down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the left. Insert the response card under the envelope flap, face up.
• For a cohesive look, consider using matching belly bands and envelope liners.
• Remember to weigh your fully assembled invitation suite at the post office to determine the correct amount of postage required.

Frequently asked questions