The Art Of Stuffing Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding invitations are a great way to set the tone for your big day. But assembling them can be a tricky task, especially if you have multiple enclosures to include. The general rule for putting wedding stationery together is to assemble your invitations in order of sizing, with the largest card on the bottom. The invitation should be placed at the bottom, print side up, followed by the reception card, and any other enclosure cards such as maps or accommodation details. Finally, add the RSVP card and envelope on top. Once your suite is assembled, simply insert it into your envelope with the printed side facing up.

Order of placement

The order of placement is important when it comes to wedding invites. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to place your wedding invites and their enclosures in the correct order:

Step 1: Get the Main Invitation Card

The wedding invitation card is the largest card in the packet and contains crucial information such as the wedding date and location. Place the invitation card at the bottom, with the print side facing up. This is the first thing your guests will see when they open the envelope.

Step 2: Add Vellum Liners (Optional)

If your invitations include a thin sheet of vellum, it's your choice whether to include it or not. Traditionally, this was used to prevent ink smudges. If you want to include it, place the vellum on top of the invitation card.

Step 3: Stack the Reception Card

If you are providing a separate reception card with details such as the time and location of the reception, place it face-up on top of the wedding invitation.

Step 4: Stack Other Enclosure Cards

Place any remaining 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, start with the largest and work your way down to the smallest.

Step 5: Add the RSVP Card and Envelope

Place the RSVP envelope vertically on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap opening to the right. Then, place the RSVP reply card under the envelope flap, face-up, so that the printed side is visible. Don't forget to pre-stamp the reply envelope.

Step 6: Add a Map or Accommodation Card

If you are providing a map or additional accommodation details, place this card on top of the RSVP card, with the wording facing up.

Step 7: Final Checks and Assembly

Before placing the invitation suite into the envelope, ensure that all the stationery is facing the same direction, with the wording facing up. Adjust any landscape-oriented cards so that they are vertical and centred on top of the other cards.

Now, you are ready to insert the invitation suite into the envelope. Place the envelope flat in front of you with the flap open. Turn the envelope 90 degrees clockwise, so the opening is on the right. Slide the invitation packet into the envelope from right to left, ensuring that the top edge of the invitation aligns with the left edge of the envelope. The invitation should be the only visible piece of the packet when closed.

Seal the envelope by licking the flap or using a bottled envelope moistener, being careful not to use too much liquid.

Repeat these steps for each invitation, and your invites will be ready to be mailed out!

Enclosure cards

Reception Card

This card lists the time, venue name, and address of your reception, especially if it is at a different location from your ceremony. You can also include parking and transportation details for getting to the reception.

Response Card

Also known as an RSVP card, this card asks your guests to respond and specify if they are attending. It usually includes a deadline to respond by and entree choices.

Accommodation Card

This card lists the hotel where you have reserved a wedding block. If you don't have a wedding block, you can list 2-3 recommended hotels in the area. Don't forget to include shuttle schedules and pick-up times to and from the hotel.

Attire Card

If you have any special dress code requirements or suggestions, you can use this card to give your guests more context. For example, for a beach wedding, you can mention beach-friendly attire.

Direction Card

Direction cards provide official instructions on how to get to your wedding from different directions.

Map Card

A map card is helpful if you have multiple wedding events at different locations. It allows guests to visualise where they are headed.

Wedding Website Card

This card can include a summary of what guests can find on your wedding website, such as how you met, how they can RSVP, and any group activities before the wedding.

Wedding Itinerary Card

This card can list all the wedding-related events that are open to all guests, such as a welcome brunch or a post-wedding gathering.

RSVP cards

When it comes to wedding invites, there are a few steps to follow to ensure you don't forget any elements and to make the process as efficient as possible. Here is a simple guide to assembling and stuffing your wedding invites, with a focus on the RSVP cards:

Preparation:

Before you begin, clear a table and give it a wipe to ensure your invitations stay pristine. It's also a good idea to create an assembly line with piles of all the necessary pieces. This includes the invitation itself, any enclosure cards, envelopes, and adornments like belly bands, ribbons, or wax seals.

Assembly:

Start by placing the wedding invitation face up on the table. This is usually the largest card, so it makes sense to build upon it.

If you're using tissue paper or a vellum overlay, place it on top of the invitation now. Traditionally, tissue paper was used to prevent ink smudges, but it's now more of a preference.

Adding Enclosure Cards:

Next, you'll want to add the reception card, which outlines the time, location, and any dress code information. Place this face-up on top of the invitation or tissue paper.

Now, add any remaining enclosure cards, such as maps, hotel accommodation details, or travel information. Place these face-up on top of the reception card, with the largest card first, followed by any smaller ones.

The placement of the RSVP card and its envelope depends on whether you're using a single envelope or an inner and outer envelope system.

Single Envelope System:

Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the stack of enclosure cards. Insert the RSVP card under the flap of its envelope, ensuring the printed side is visible (face-up). The stamped side of the card should be facing down.

Then, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the single envelope, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge first for a folded invitation. The printed side of the invitation should be visible when the envelope flap is opened.

Inner and Outer Envelope System:

If you're using two envelopes, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the inner envelope first. For a single-card invitation, insert the left edge into the envelope first, and for a folded invitation, insert the folded edge. The printed side of the invitation should be visible when the inner envelope flap is opened.

Then, place the unsealed inner envelope into the outer envelope so that the guests' names on the inner envelope are visible when they open it.

Final Steps:

Remember to stamp the RSVP card envelope, and if you're using two envelopes, stamp the outer envelope as well. It's also proper etiquette to address the RSVP card envelope, making it easier for your guests to respond.

Finally, if you have time, consider weighing a fully assembled invitation at the post office to ensure you have the correct postage.

Timing:

Plan to assemble your invitations about a week before you intend to mail them, as the process can be time-consuming, especially if you're adding extras like wax seals. It's recommended to send out your wedding invites with RSVP cards enclosed 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding. If you're hosting a destination wedding, give your guests more time to plan by mailing the invitations at least 3 months in advance.

Happy assembling, and congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Belly bands

Sizing and Printing

For a standard 5 x 7-inch invitation, the belly band should measure 11 x 2 inches. If you are creating custom-sized bands, double the width of your card and add an extra inch for overlap. You can print the bands yourself or use a print shop, depending on the ink heaviness and quantity you need. Printing at home is often more cost-effective for smaller quantities, but a local print shop may be more budget-friendly for larger orders of ink-heavy designs.

Assembly

To assemble the belly bands, cut out the individual bands using a paper cutter or X-acto knife. Ensure your printer settings are set to "No Scaling / 100%" and that the correct paper size is selected. Fold one flap of the band around the invitation, using a bone folder if needed, and apply glue to the end. Then, fold the other flap on top so the two ends overlap. Press and hold for a few seconds until the glue dries.

Design Options

You can design your belly bands with a custom monogram, couples' names and wedding date, or a crest or wreath design. You can also use specialty paper, like glitter, or add a pop of colour to make your invitations stand out. Another option is to personalise the bands with your guests' names, adding a formal touch to your invitations.

Alternative Options

If you prefer not to use belly bands, there are alternative ways to keep your invitations organised. Pockets are a popular choice, but they may not be within everyone's budget. Other options include using stickers, wax seals, lace, twine, or ribbon to secure the contents of your invitation.

Envelope liners

If you want to include envelope liners with your wedding invitations, you can either purchase them or make them yourself. Many online retailers, such as Etsy, offer a wide variety of envelope liners with different colours, patterns, and designs to choose from. You can also opt for custom envelope liners that match your wedding theme or include a photo or illustration.

If you're feeling crafty, you can create your own envelope liners by following these simple steps:

• Download and print an envelope liner template.
• Use the template to trace and cut your desired liner material.
• Insert the liner into the envelope and crease it at the flap.
• Secure the liner to the envelope with small strips of tape at both edges.

By adding envelope liners to your wedding invitations, you can enhance the aesthetic appeal and make a memorable first impression on your guests. It's a great way to showcase your attention to detail and create a cohesive and enchanting wedding experience.

Frequently asked questions