Invitation Etiquette: 'Me To You' Wedding Cards

Wedding invitations are an essential part of planning a wedding. They set the tone for the event and are often cherished keepsakes for the couple and their guests. There are many options available to suit different preferences and budgets, from rustic and minimalist designs to more luxurious and ornate styles. Couples can choose to create their own invitations or select from a range of customizable templates, with the option to include personal photos. Online services offer free and premium invitation templates, with additional printing services available.

Wording

When it comes to the wording of your wedding invitation cards, there are some essential details that you should include. Here is a guide to help you with the wording and what to include:

The Host's Name

It is customary to begin the invitation by mentioning the host of the wedding, whether it is the couple's parents or the couple themselves. This can be done in a variety of ways, depending on who is hosting. For instance:

• "Mr. and Mrs. Smith request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Emily Smith, to Mr. John Doe"
• "Together with their families, Emily Smith and John Doe invite you to celebrate their wedding"

The Couple's Names

The full names of the couple getting married should be included in the invitation. This is a crucial element that cannot be missed.

Date and Time

Be sure to include the date and time of both the wedding ceremony and the reception, if applicable. This helps guests plan their attendance accordingly.

Location

Provide the names and addresses of the venues for the wedding ceremony and reception. If the ceremony and reception are held at the same location, you can simply mention this once, followed by the time of each event.

RSVP Details

It is important to include instructions on how to RSVP for the event, along with the deadline date for responses. This helps in finalizing numbers for catering and other arrangements.

Additional Information

You may also want to include other relevant details, such as the wedding's dress code or any specific instructions for guests, such as "adults-only reception" or "no gifts, please."

Examples of Wording

• "Mr. and Mrs. Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter, Emily Smith, to Mr. John Doe on Saturday, June 15, 2024, at 4:00 pm. The ceremony will be held at St. Paul's Cathedral, followed by a reception at the Country Club. Please RSVP by May 31st."
• "The joy of your presence is requested at the wedding of Emily Smith and John Doe on Saturday, the fifteenth of June, two thousand and twenty-four, at four o'clock in the afternoon. Ceremony: Gardenia Park, 123 Main Street, Springville. Reception to follow at the same location. Kindly respond by the first of June."

Design

When it comes to designing "me to you" wedding invitation cards, there are numerous options to choose from, ranging from classic and traditional to modern and minimalist. Here are some design ideas to consider:

Classic and Vintage Designs:

• Floral themes are a popular choice for wedding invitations, with options such as the Timeless Floral Wedding Invitation or the Classic Vintage Floral Frame design.
• The Elegant Antique Toile Frame design by Bridgerton evokes a sense of vintage elegance.
• For a rustic charm, consider the Brown and Orange Typography design, or opt for recycled brown paper with a simple printed invite.

Modern and Minimalist:

• Minimalist designs are all about simplicity and elegance. Choose from a range of colour palettes, such as the Pink Minimalist, Blue Minimalist, or White Minimalist invitations.
• Monochrome designs offer a modern twist, like the Monochrome Minimalist Rustic Wedding Invitation.
• Abstract designs, such as the Abstract Organic Wedding Invitation, offer a unique and contemporary feel.

Premium and Luxury:

• Acrylic invitations with clear or golden mirror finishes offer a premium look and feel. These can be paired with jacket-style covers, plastic seals, or premium boxes.
• Hardbound invitation cards with golden foil work and floral designs exude luxury and elegance.
• Laser-cut designs, such as the MDF laser-cut frame with a couple design or the Acrylic invitation card with a digital floral print, add a unique and sophisticated touch.

Personalised Touches:

• Include uploaded photos of the happy couple, featured or overlaid with text, for an extra special touch.
• Opt for invitations with the names of the bride and groom engraved, ensuring a personalised and memorable invitation.

With so many design options available, "me to you" wedding invitation cards can be tailored to reflect the theme and style of your special day.

Cost

The cost of wedding invitations can vary depending on various factors, including the design, materials, printing method, and quantity. Here is a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with "Me to You" wedding invitation cards:

Design Costs:

The design of the wedding invitation can significantly impact the overall cost. Couples can choose from various design options, including pre-made templates, custom designs, or hiring a professional designer. Pre-made templates are usually more affordable, while custom designs or hiring a designer may incur additional charges. "Me to You" cards offer a range of customizable templates with different colour schemes and font options to choose from.

Material Costs:

The choice of materials for the wedding invitation cards and envelopes can affect the cost. Premium materials such as cotton or linen paper are typically more expensive than standard options like cardstock or matte paper. "Me to You" cards offer a selection of paper types, including premium options with a jacket-style cover, plastic film, or hardbound invitations with golden foil work.

Printing Costs:

Printing methods such as letterpress, foil stamping, or digital printing can vary in price. Letterpress printing, which creates a textured, debossed effect, is often more costly than digital printing. Foil stamping, which adds a luxurious touch, also increases the price. "Me to You" cards provide digital printing services, ensuring a balance of quality and cost-efficiency, with options for glossy or matte finishes.

Quantity Costs:

The number of invitations required will also affect the overall cost. Most printing services offer discounted rates for larger quantities. For example, "Me to You" cards provide packages ranging from 10 to 400 invitations, with the cost per invitation decreasing as the quantity increases.

Additional Costs:

There may be additional costs for extras such as envelope liners, ribbons, wax seals, or other embellishments. Postage costs should also be considered, as they can add a significant expense, especially for heavier invitations or those requiring special stamps.

To summarise, the cost of "Me to You" wedding invitation cards can range from a few dollars per invitation to premium options costing $20 or more. The average cost for 100 wedding invitations typically falls between $400 and $600. It is important to consider all the factors mentioned above and choose the options that fit within your budget while creating elegant and personalised invitations for your special day.

Printing

• Choosing a Printing Service: Depending on your preferences and budget, you can opt for a professional printing service or choose to print your invitations at home. Professional printing services offer convenience and high-quality results. Greetings Island, for example, provides free shipping and a range of printing options. Alternatively, you may want to explore local print shops or online services that specialize in wedding invitations.
• Paper Quality and Finish: The type of paper and finish you choose will impact the overall look and feel of your invitations. Options like premium paper, fancy paper, or recycled brown paper are available, each offering a distinct aesthetic. Consider the theme of your wedding and select a paper that complements it. For instance, recycled brown paper could be ideal for a rustic-themed wedding.
• Printing Techniques: Familiarize yourself with the different printing techniques available. This includes options such as digital printing, letterpress printing, foil stamping, or embossing. Each technique offers a unique appearance and texture to your invitations. For instance, foil stamping adds a touch of elegance with metallic finishes, while letterpress printing creates a subtle impression on the paper for a sophisticated look.
• Proofreading and Testing: Before finalizing the printing process, carefully proofread your invitation design for any errors or typos. Double-check all the information, including dates, times, locations, and spelling of names. Consider printing a single test copy to ensure that the colours, layout, and overall design meet your expectations. This extra step can save you from costly mistakes and delays.
• Timing and Quantity: Plan ahead and allow sufficient time for the printing process. Consider the turnaround time provided by your chosen printing service or the capabilities of your home printer if you opt for DIY printing. Additionally, determine the number of invitations you need. Account for your guest list, and don't forget to include a few extras in case of last-minute additions or as keepsakes for yourself and your partner.
• Envelopes and Packaging: Don't forget to organize envelopes for your invitations. Choose envelopes that complement the style and colour scheme of your invitations. You may also want to consider adding extras such as wax seals, ribbons, or custom stamps to enhance the presentation of your invitations.

By following these steps and considerations, you can ensure that the printing process for your "Me to You" wedding invitation cards runs smoothly and produces the desired outcome. Remember to pay attention to the details, from paper selection to proofreading, to create elegant and personalized invitations that set the tone for your special day.

Timing

The timing of sending out your "Me to You" wedding invitation cards is crucial to ensure your guests have enough notice and can plan accordingly. Here is a detailed guide on the timing for your wedding invitations:

Save-the-Date Cards:

It is recommended to send out Save-the-Date cards around four to six months before your wedding. This is especially important if your wedding is a destination wedding or if your guests need to travel or make extensive plans to attend. It gives your guests a heads-up to block their calendars and make any necessary travel arrangements.

The Invitation Suite:

Your formal wedding invitation suite, which typically includes the invitation card, response card, envelope, and return postage, should be sent out six to eight weeks before your wedding. This timeframe allows your guests ample time to respond and for you to get a final headcount for your vendors. It is essential to include clear instructions on how to RSVP and specify an RSVP deadline date, usually set three to four weeks before the wedding.

Other Pre-Wedding Events:

If you plan to host pre-wedding events such as engagement parties, bachelor or bachelorette parties, bridal showers, or rehearsal dinners, it's essential to send out invitations for these events separately and with their own timelines. For example, engagement party invites can be sent out a few weeks after the Save-the-Date cards, and bridal shower invites can follow a similar timeline as the wedding invitations, about six to eight weeks before the event.

Day-of Wedding Stationery:

On your wedding day, there may be additional stationery needs, such as menus, programs, place cards, or signage. The timing for these depends on your specific needs and can be coordinated with your stationer.

Post-Wedding Thank You Cards:

Lastly, don't forget to send out thank-you cards to your guests after the wedding. These should be sent out as soon as possible, ideally within a few weeks of returning from your honeymoon. It is a thoughtful way to express your gratitude for your guests' attendance and any gifts they may have given you.

Frequently asked questions