The Anatomy Of A Formal Wedding Invitation Package

A formal wedding invitation is typically sent as a package or suite, including several matching stationery items. These items inform guests about the wedding and related events and help the couple to gather the necessary information from guests to plan the wedding. The suite may be sent in an outer envelope with additional inner envelopes for style and functionality.

Wording and etiquette

The wording of your wedding invitations gives your guests an idea of what to expect from your wedding, whether it's a formal, black-tie affair or a more casual celebration. The tone of your invitations should match the tone of your wedding.

The Host Line

The host line is where the name(s) of the event host(s) appear. This is usually the couple or the people paying for the wedding. If the couple is hosting, you can include a line such as "Together with their families".

The Request Line

The request line is where you invite your guests to join your wedding celebration. Traditionally, formal religious ceremonies use formal wording, while modern celebrations tend to be more casual. Common wording includes "invite you to join" and "the pleasure of your company".

The Couple's Names

The couple's names should be front and centre, with the bride's name traditionally coming before the groom's. For same-sex couples, this tradition is not applicable, so go with what sounds better or use alphabetical order.

Date, Time and Location

Include the date, start time and location of the ceremony. For formal invitations, spell out the date, time and address in full. For casual weddings, numerals are fine.

Reception Information

If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, you can include "reception to follow" or "and afterward at the reception". If the reception is elsewhere, include the address on a separate card.

Dress Code

The invitation itself will indicate the dress code. For example, a very fancy invitation suggests a formal, black-tie affair. You can also include the dress code in the lower right-hand corner of the invitation.

RSVP Information

Most couples include a separate response card for guests to fill out and return. You can also give guests the option to RSVP via your wedding website.

Enclosure cards

Response or RSVP Cards

Response cards are a must-have for wedding invitations. They allow guests to easily RSVP to your wedding and provide important information about their attendance. This card should include checkboxes for meal choices, if applicable, and be accompanied by a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for guests' convenience.

Reception Cards

If your wedding reception is at a different location from the ceremony, it is helpful to include a separate reception card with the invitation package. This card should include the reception location, address, and time. If you are hosting a breakfast reception before 1 pm, indicate this on the card. Otherwise, simply state "Reception" followed by the time.

Directions or Map Cards

Including a separate directions card ensures that your guests can easily find your wedding venue, even if they don't have access to a smartphone or reliable cell service. Consider including a custom map for a more personalised touch.

Weekend Events or Itinerary Cards

If your wedding spans multiple days and includes events such as welcome drinks, an after-party, or a day-after brunch, it's helpful to include an itinerary for your guests. This card should list all the events, along with hotel recommendations, transportation details, and any relevant deadlines.

Accommodations Cards

For guests travelling from out of town, an accommodations card with hotel options and booking information is a thoughtful addition. Include the hotel name, address, and any reservation deadlines or special codes. If you're covering guests' accommodations, be sure to indicate this on the card as well.

Design and printing options

When it comes to the design and printing options for a formal wedding invitation package, there are several key elements to consider. Firstly, the invitation card itself should be carefully designed to include all the essential information, such as the request to come to the wedding, the names of the couple, and reception information. The wording and format of the text should also be chosen carefully to reflect the desired tone and formality of the event.

In terms of printing options, it is essential to select a high-quality paper stock that complements the design of the invitation. The paper should be thick enough to give a luxurious feel and can be customised with special finishes such as embossing or foil stamping. The font style and colour should also be carefully chosen to match the overall aesthetic of the invitation.

In addition to the invitation card, there are several other printed components that can be included in a formal wedding invitation package. These may include an RSVP card, a details card with additional information about the wedding, and an outer envelope to hold all the components together. It is also common to include an inner envelope, which provides an extra layer of protection for the invitation suite and can be used to indicate the specific names of the invited guests.

When assembling the invitation package, it is important to consider the order and placement of each component. The largest card, typically the invitation, should be placed at the bottom, with other cards stacked on top in size order. Any vellum liners or belly bands should be added to secure the stack, followed by the RSVP card and envelope. Finally, the whole suite can be inserted into the outer envelope, taking care to ensure the text is print-side up when the envelope is opened.

Assembly and addressing

Once you have selected your invitation suite and chosen your envelope lining and any other embellishments, it is time to assemble your invitations. This process involves carefully putting together each element of your invitation package. Start by laying out all the components in front of you. Take each invitation and place your chosen envelope lining inside the envelope, ensuring it is smooth and free of creases. Then, take your invitation card and any additional cards, such as RSVP cards, and carefully insert them into the envelope. If you have chosen a pocketfold or folio style invitation, your cards will be tucked into the designated pockets.

For a cohesive look, consider adding a wax seal, either on the outside of the envelope or as a decorative touch to your inner cards. You can also add a ribbon or twine to tie your invitation suite together. If you are including any loose items, such as confetti or a small gift, make sure they are securely attached or enclosed within the invitation package. Once the assembly is complete, it's time to address your invitations.

Using your guest list, carefully handwrite the names and addresses of your guests on the outer envelope. The outer envelope is typically more formal and includes titles and full names. The inner envelope, if you are using one, can be addressed more informally, such as using first names only. If you are concerned about legibility or consistency in handwriting, consider hiring a calligrapher or using a printing service that offers custom fonts or calligraphy. This will ensure a polished and elegant look for your formal wedding invitations.

Finally, weigh your assembled invitation package at the post office to ensure you have the correct postage. You may need additional postage for heavier invitations or those with unusual dimensions or embellishments. By taking your time and paying attention to the details, your formal wedding invitations will be a beautiful and impressive introduction to your special day.

Timing and postage considerations

Timing is key when it comes to sending out your wedding invitations. You'll want to give your guests enough notice to clear their schedules and, if necessary, make travel arrangements. Sending out your invitations six to eight weeks before the ceremony is a good rule of thumb. But if you're planning a destination wedding or have a large number of out-of-town guests, consider sending out your invitations three months in advance.

When it comes to postage, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, weigh your fully assembled invitation suite at your local post office to ensure you're using the correct amount of postage. The weight of your invitations will depend on the number of enclosure cards and embellishments included. For example, if you're including a belly band, ribbon, or wax seal, your invitations will likely require additional postage.

Additionally, request that your invitations be hand-cancelled rather than machine-cancelled. This will ensure that the stamps on your envelopes aren't ruined by unsightly wavy lines. Hand-cancellation is also necessary if you've placed the return address on the back of the envelope, as the machine might not be able to read which side is the front.

Finally, consider using a bottled envelope moistener to wet the adhesive edge of your envelopes, being careful not to use too much to avoid soggy, puckered edges. Or, if you prefer, you can use a wax seal to secure your envelopes shut.

Frequently asked questions