The Importance Of Backings In Wedding Invites

A backing layer for wedding invitations is a piece of cardstock adhered to the invitation itself. It is slightly larger than the invitation, creating a border with an additional touch of colour. This adds a luxurious feel to the invitation, making it seem thick and stiff. The backing layer is usually around 0.375 greater than the invitation. For example, a standard 5x7 invitation would have a backing layer of 5x7, with the invitation measuring 4.625x6.625, resulting in an 0.1875 border.

Backing layers to add luxury

A thick, stiff invitation is a surefire way to convey luxury and quality. Conversely, thin, flimsy invitations may suggest poor quality and that the event will be sub-par. A backing layer is a simple and effective way to achieve a luxurious feel.

A backing layer is a piece of cardstock adhered to the invitation, creating a border and an opportunity to add a touch of colour. It should be slightly larger than the invitation itself, typically by 0.375". For example, a standard 5"x7" invitation would have a backing layer of 5"x7", with the invitation measuring 4.625"x6.625", resulting in an 0.1875" border.

When selecting cardstock for a backing layer, Stardream metallic cardstock is a popular choice, with its 105 lb. stock available precut from several suppliers. For an elegant finish, pair a Stardream lapis lazuli (metallic navy blue) backing layer with Stardream Antique Gold envelopes.

In addition to cardstock, there are other options for backing layers to elevate your invitations.

Belly Bands

Belly bands are strips of ribbon, quality paper, or fabric that hold together the various components of your invitation suite. They are a practical and stylish way to keep your invitation and any additional cards neat and secure. Belly bands can be customised to coordinate with your invitation design and embellished with jewels or botanicals for added luxury.

Wax Seals

Wax seals add a touch of old-world glamour and are an increasingly popular way to secure your invitation suite. They can be used in conjunction with a belly band or inner envelope to hold everything together. A custom wax seal with a couple's monogram adds a unique and personalised touch.

Inner Envelopes

An inner envelope is a practical addition that further protects your invitation and keeps everything together. It also provides a convenient space to list the names of your invited guests, allowing you to specify any plus-ones or indicate an adults-only event.

Envelope Liners

Envelope liners add a touch of luxury and interest to the inside of your envelope. They are like a patterned pocket that makes the interior pop. You can choose a design that coordinates with your invitation to create a cohesive and stylish suite.

By incorporating backing layers and these additional elements, you can create luxurious and elegant wedding invitations that are sure to impress your guests.

RSVP cards and envelopes

When it comes to wedding RSVP cards and envelopes, there are two popular sizes: A1 and A2. A1 envelopes are the smallest size that can be mailed in the U.S., making them a classic choice for wedding invitations. A2 envelopes are slightly larger and provide a bit more room for additional details such as multiple events, meal choices, and song requests.

When choosing RSVP cards, consider the amount of information you need to include. A2 cards provide more space, while A1 cards are more compact. Additionally, A2 cards can be mailed as postcards without an envelope, saving you some money on postage.

You can also opt for RSVP postcards, which eliminate the need for envelopes altogether. These postcards are an economical and eco-friendly choice, requiring only a single postcard stamp. However, if you prefer a more traditional approach, you can choose RSVP cards with envelopes.

When designing your RSVP cards, consider including essential details such as the date, time, and location of the wedding, as well as any additional events or activities that guests may need to RSVP for. You may also want to include meal choices or any other relevant information that will help you plan the wedding accordingly.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the quality of the cardstock and envelopes. A thick and stiff invitation conveys luxury, while thin and flimsy invitations may give a poor impression. You can also add a backing layer to your invitations, which is a piece of cardstock adhered to the invitation, adding a border and an extra touch of colour.

Reception cards

A backing layer is a piece of cardstock adhered to the wedding invitation. It is slightly larger than the invitation, adding a border and an additional touch of colour. For a luxurious feel, a thick cardstock or a backing layer can be added to the invitation.

> "Reception immediately following the ceremony"

> "Cocktails, Dinner and Dancing to follow"

If the reception is at a different location, it is helpful to include a separate reception card. This can be a multi-purpose "Information" insert, including details such as:

• Reception specifics
• Helpful information like your wedding website
• Hotel accommodations

"Reception" is the standard heading, but alternatives like "Celebrate", "Dinner and Dancing", or "The celebration continues" are also popular.

A formal reception card contains a request line, for example:

> "The pleasure of your company" for receptions at secular locations

> "Following the ceremony" if the reception begins as soon as the ceremony ends

Include the full name of the reception venue, along with the street address, city, and state. It is also useful to include transportation arrangements and the dress code.

Direction cards

Not Everyone Has a GPS

It may be surprising, but not all your guests will have access to a GPS or know how to use one effectively. Direction cards ensure that all your guests, regardless of their technological skills, can find their way to your wedding without getting lost.

Insider Information

A GPS may provide a route, but it won't be able to account for specific circumstances, such as rush-hour traffic that could cause gridlock on certain streets. With direction cards, you can include this kind of insider information to suggest alternative routes that could save your guests a lot of time.

Additional Venue Information

Sometimes, your guests may need more than just the address. Direction cards can be used to provide extra details such as specific parking instructions, passcodes, or any other special requirements that your guests need to be aware of. This way, you can avoid cramming all the information onto the wedding invitation itself.

Creating a Luxurious Feel

A Memorable Keepsake

Inner envelopes

Traditionally, wedding invitations are sent with an inner and outer envelope. The inner envelope is more informal than the outer envelope, giving you the option to leave out one or two elements of the formal name format. For example, you could use personal titles and last names, or go for a more casual vibe with first names only.

If you're inviting a married couple, their names should be placed on the same line. If they have different last names, list each name with an "and" between them to indicate they are married. If the couple has the same last name, include both first and last names, placing the name of the person you are closest with first or using alphabetical order.

When addressing an unmarried couple living together, place their names on two separate lines, indicating that they are not legally married. For single individuals with a plus-one, write the guest's name on the inner envelope if known, or simply write "and Guest" or "& Guest".

If you are inviting a family with young children (under 18), the outer envelope is reserved for the name(s) of the parent(s) or guardian(s). You should list each child by name on the inner envelope. Boys don't need a title until they're 16, then they can be addressed as "Mr.". For girls under 18, you can use "Miss" if you wish.

Examples

Married Couple, Same Last Name:

• Outer envelope: Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Rivera
• Inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Rivera

Married Couple, Different Last Names:

• Outer envelope: Ms. Celine Elgin and Ms. Jacqueline Purcell
• Inner envelope: Ms. Elgin and Ms. Purcell

Single Friend with Known Plus-One:

• Outer envelope: Ms. Ali Johnson
• Inner envelope: Ms. Johnson and [name of plus-one]

Single Friend with Unknown Plus-One:

• Outer envelope: Mx. Sam Li
• Inner envelope: Sam Li and Guest

Family with Young Children:

• Outer envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham
• Inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham, Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany and Mx. Kelly

Frequently asked questions