Tissue Paper In Wedding Invites: Necessary Or Not?

Wedding invitation tissue paper is a thin, delicate, slightly transparent paper that is placed over an invitation card to prevent ink smudging during mailing. It is also used for aesthetic reasons, to separate layers and cards, and to keep invitations neat and elegant. Traditionally, tissue paper was used to prevent handwritten invitations from smudging, but with modern printing methods, it is no longer necessary. However, some couples choose to include it as a nod to tradition or to add a touch of elegance to their invitations. Tissue paper can also serve a practical purpose, protecting invitations with raised prints, embellishments, or multiple layers during mailing. Ultimately, the decision to include tissue paper in wedding invitations comes down to personal preference and the desired tone and style of the wedding.

History of tissue paper in wedding invitations

Tissue paper in wedding invitations dates back hundreds of years to when invitations were handwritten. Quill pen and ink were used for writing, and tissue paper was placed over the invitation wording to prevent smudging. The tissue would blot excess ink and protect the invitation from smudging during transport to the recipient. This was especially important if the ink was not completely dry or if the invitation got damp.

Today, with modern inks, smudging is less of a concern, and the use of tissue paper in invitations has declined. However, it is still considered a standard in formal wedding invitations and is seen as proper wedding stationery etiquette. The tissue paper adds a layer of protection and a touch of elegance to the invitation suite. It is usually placed over the main invitation wording and, if necessary, over each card for protection.

Tissue paper for wedding invitations is typically thin, delicate, slightly translucent, and cut to standard sizes just enough to cover the wording on the invite. It is usually white or cream in colour and has a soft, cloudy appearance.

While tissue paper is traditional, some people may choose to use vellum instead, which is a more contemporary alternative. Vellum is thicker, offers more translucency, and can be printed with custom text and designs, whereas tissue paper cannot.

Practical uses of tissue paper

Tissue paper has been a part of wedding invitations for hundreds of years. While it may seem unnecessary today, it does serve some practical purposes. Here are some reasons why tissue paper is still useful in wedding invitations:

Tradition:

The use of tissue paper in wedding invitations dates back to the time when invitations were handwritten. Tissue paper was placed over the invitation wording to prevent smudging and absorb excess ink. While modern printing methods have made this less of a concern, the tradition of including tissue paper has persisted.

Protection:

Tissue paper can provide a layer of protection for your wedding invitations, especially if you have multiple cards, embellishments, or pocket invitations. It can help prevent smudging, scratching, and other types of damage that may occur during mailing or handling.

Aesthetics:

Tissue paper adds a nice, formal presentation to your wedding invitations. It gives a soft, cloudy appearance and can help separate layers and cards, keeping your invitations neat and elegant.

Ink Absorption:

In some cases, such as with inkjet printing, there is still a risk of smudging. Tissue paper can be useful in absorbing any excess ink and preventing it from transferring to other parts of the invitation or envelope.

Customisation:

While traditional tissue paper is usually white or cream, you can now find it in various colours. It can also be custom-cut to fit your specific invitation size. This allows you to add a personal touch and make your invitations stand out.

In conclusion, while tissue paper may not be essential for wedding invitations in the modern era, it can still serve practical purposes. It provides protection, enhances aesthetics, and pays homage to the long-standing tradition of formal wedding invitations.

Tissue paper vs vellum

The use of tissue paper in wedding invitations dates back hundreds of years. Back then, invitations were handwritten, and tissue paper was used to prevent smudging. Today, tissue paper is used for tradition, aesthetics, and practicality. It is usually placed over the invitation card and sometimes between each card in the ensemble. Tissue paper is typically thin, delicate, slightly translucent, and comes in white or cream. It is often cut to standard sizes, just enough to cover the wording on the invite.

Vellum, on the other hand, is a contemporary alternative to tissue paper. It is also thin and delicate but offers more translucency and a more modern look. Vellum is available in various colours and sizes and can be printed with custom text and designs, unlike tissue paper.

If you want to add a layer of protection to your wedding invitations, tissue paper is a good option. It is especially useful if you have used ink jet printing, as these are more likely to smudge in the mail. Tissue paper can also help prevent scratches and damage to your invitations, making it ideal if you have multiple cards or embellishments such as crystals, ribbons, or string.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more contemporary look and want to add a creative touch to your invitations, vellum is a better choice. However, if smudging is a concern, vellum may not be the best option as it does not work well for ink absorption. In fact, due to its hardened, almost plastic-like feel, it may even make smudging worse.

Both tissue paper and vellum can enhance the presentation of your wedding invitations, but they serve different purposes. Tissue paper is more traditional and practical, while vellum offers a modern and creative alternative. Ultimately, the choice between tissue paper and vellum depends on the style and tone of your wedding, as well as your personal preferences.

How to arrange wedding invitations with tissue paper

Wedding invitation tissue paper is a thin, delicate, slightly transparent paper designed to cover the wording of an invitation card. It is usually white or cream and is placed over the main invitation wording and, if necessary, over each card for protection.

• Place the tissue paper over the invitation card: Take the tissue paper and gently lay it over the invitation card, ensuring it covers the wording. The tissue paper should be slightly larger than the invitation card, just enough to cover the text.
• Prepare your inserts: Gather all the additional inserts you want to include, such as maps, reception cards, or special instructions. If you are concerned about smudging or damage, you can place a sheet of tissue paper between each layer of the invitation suite.
• Assemble the stack: Start with the largest piece, typically the invitation card with the tissue paper on top, and then add the other inserts in descending order of size. Place the smallest piece, usually the reply card with its envelope, on top.
• Insert into the inner envelope: Once you have your stack ready, carefully slide the entire ensemble into the inner envelope, ensuring the text on the invitation card faces upwards. Do not seal the inner envelope, but instead, handwrite the recipient's name(s) on the front.
• Slide into the outer envelope: Finally, take the outer envelope and slide the inner envelope inside, again ensuring the recipient's name faces upwards towards the back flap. Seal the outer envelope and your invitation is ready to be mailed!

Remember to include a stamped and addressed RSVP envelope inside, and always double-check that the names on the inner and outer envelopes match!

Wedding invitation etiquette

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your style and give your guests a glimpse of what to expect from your big day. While there are no hard and fast rules, here are some guidelines to ensure your invitations are both elegant and informative:

Tradition and Aesthetics:

The use of tissue paper in wedding invitations dates back to the time when invitations were handwritten. Tissue paper was placed over the invitation to prevent ink from smudging and to protect the invitation during transport. Today, with modern printing methods, tissue paper is not necessary to prevent smudging, but it has become a tradition to include it as a nod to the past. It adds a touch of elegance and formality to your invitation suite.

Practicality and Protection:

Tissue paper can also serve a practical purpose. If you have chosen a printing method that is prone to smudging, such as inkjet printing, tissue paper can help protect your invitations during mailing and handling. It is especially useful if you have multiple cards or embellishments such as crystals, ribbons, or string that could rub against each other and cause damage. In these cases, a layer of tissue paper is recommended to keep your invitations neat and pristine.

Format and Assembly:

When assembling your invitations, the tissue paper goes on top of the invitation card, covering the wording. If necessary, you can also place tissue paper between each card for added protection. Stack your invitation ensemble from largest to smallest, with the invitation card at the bottom and the reply card and envelope on top. Place this stack into the inner envelope, unsealed and with the recipient's name handwritten on the front. Finally, slide the entire package into the outer envelope, with the recipient's name facing up, and seal it before mailing.

Alternative Options:

While tissue paper is traditional, you may also consider using translucent vellum as an alternative. Vellum is a contemporary option that offers more colours, sizes, and customisation options. Unlike tissue paper, vellum can be printed on and works well to protect invitations with raised embellishments. However, it is important to note that vellum may not be as effective in ink absorption and smudge prevention as tissue paper.

In conclusion, the use of tissue paper in wedding invitations is a matter of personal preference. It can add a traditional and elegant touch to your invitations, while also serving a practical purpose in certain cases. Ultimately, the decision to include tissue paper or not depends on the style and format of your invitations, as well as the level of formality you wish to convey.

Frequently asked questions