The Art Of Stuffing Wedding Invitations Elegantly

Wedding invitation assembly can be a confusing process for many couples, but it isn't rocket science. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to stuff your wedding invitations properly. First, create an assembly line to make the process faster and more efficient. Clear off a table and lay out all the necessary pieces in neat piles, including the invitation, enclosure cards, envelopes, and any adornments like belly bands or ribbons. Then, start with the invitation card, which should be placed face up on the table as it is usually the largest card in the packet. Next, add any tissue paper or vellum overlay, followed by the reception card, and then any remaining enclosure cards such as maps or accommodation details. Don't forget to include an RSVP card and envelope, with the envelope pre-addressed and stamped. Finally, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the envelope, ensuring that the text is print-side up so that guests can immediately read the invitation upon opening.

Invitation card first

When stuffing a wedding invitation, it is important to consider the order and placement of each element to ensure a neat and elegant presentation. The invitation card itself should always be the star of the show and therefore take center stage. Here is a guide to help you assemble your wedding invitations with the invitation card going in first:

Place the Invitation Card Face-Up: Start by laying the invitation card face-up, with the front side showing. This is the primary piece of your suite and should be the first thing your guests see when they open the envelope. Ensure the card is oriented correctly, with the top of the invitation facing the top of the envelope.

Insert Any Additional Cards: Depending on your wedding details and the information you are conveying, you may have additional cards, such as RSVP cards, reception cards, or accommodation cards. Place these smaller cards below the invitation card, face-up, and in order of size, with the largest card directly behind the invitation and the smallest card in front. Align all the cards at the bottom for a neat, uniform look.

Add Enclosures with Care: If you have chosen to include enclosures such as ribbons, paper bands, or wax seals, place them around the stacked invitation cards. Ensure that your enclosures are not too tight, allowing guests to easily remove the cards without damaging them. Also, be mindful of the thickness of your enclosures; you want to avoid making the envelope bulky, which could affect postage costs.

Stuff and Seal: Once you are happy with the placement and arrangement of the invitation card and any additional cards, carefully slide the suite into the envelope. The invitation card, being the largest piece, will act as a foundation and provide structure to the rest of the suite. Take care not to bend or crease the cards as you insert them into the envelope. Finally, seal the envelope, and you're ready to address and stamp your invitations!

Remember, the key to a beautifully stuffed wedding invitation is a thoughtful arrangement, ensuring that your guests can easily access and enjoy all the information you have provided. Starting with the invitation card first sets the tone for a well-organized and elegant presentation.

Face up, largest card on the bottom

Wedding invitations are traditionally assembled in a specific order, with each card placed face up and the largest card on the bottom. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to stuff your wedding invitations with the largest card, the invitation card, at the bottom and face up:

• Start with the invitation card: Place the invitation card face up on the table so that you can read the wording on the front. This is usually the largest card and acts as the base for the rest of the enclosure cards.
• Add tissue paper or a vellum overlay (optional): Traditionally, a thin sheet of tissue paper or vellum was used to prevent ink smudges. If you want to include this, place the tissue paper or vellum on top of the invitation card.
• Stack the reception card: If you have a separate reception card, place it face-up on top of the invitation card or tissue paper. The reception card usually includes details such as the time, location, and dress code of the wedding reception.
• Include other enclosure cards: Place any remaining enclosure cards, such as maps, accommodation cards, or travel information cards, face up on top of the reception card. If there are multiple enclosure cards, start with the largest and work your way to the smallest.
• Add the RSVP card and envelope: Place the RSVP envelope face down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap opening to the right. Then, insert the RSVP reply card under the envelope flap, face up, so that the printed side is visible. Don't forget to pre-address and pre-stamp the RSVP envelope to make it easier for your guests to respond.
• Final checks: Before placing the invitation suite into the envelope, ensure that all the cards are facing the same direction, with the text upright. If some cards are in landscape orientation and others are in portrait, turn the landscape cards 90 degrees clockwise so that they are all vertical and centred.
• Insert into the envelope: With the envelope laying flat, turn it 90 degrees clockwise so that 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 and subsequent inserts align with the left edge of the envelope. The invitation should be facing up so that when your guests open the envelope, they can immediately read the details.
• Seal and send: Lick the envelope or use a bottled envelope moistener to seal the flap. Now, your invitation is ready to be mailed!

Remember, it is essential to proofread your wedding invitations for any errors and confirm the spelling of your guests' names before assembling and stuffing the envelopes. Enjoy the process and don't be afraid to ask for help from your friends and family to make it a fun and memorable experience!

Add vellum or tissue paper

Vellum or tissue paper is a great way to add a protective layer to your wedding invitation, especially if you've used embellishments such as ribbons or rhinestones. It's also a nice way to add a formal touch to your invitations.

Vellum is a more contemporary alternative to tissue paper. It is slightly thicker and heavier, and it comes in a variety of colours and sizes. It can also be printed with custom text and designs, whereas tissue paper cannot. Tissue paper is the more traditional option, and it has a soft, cloudy appearance. It is usually white or cream and is placed over the invitation card and sometimes between each card.

If you want to include vellum or tissue paper, it should be placed on top of the invitation card. If you're using tissue paper, you can also place it between each card for added protection.

If you're creating a DIY invitation with embellishments, vellum is a great way to protect your hard work and ensure your invitation arrives intact. It will help to prevent any bows or ribbons from moving and cover any important text.

Vellum and tissue paper are both great options to add a special touch to your wedding invitations. They offer protection, a formal presentation, and a unique look.

Reception card next

Now that you've placed the wedding invitation at the bottom of the pile, it's time to add the reception card. The reception card is a crucial component of the invitation suite, providing guests with essential information about the time and location of the wedding reception. It also typically includes important details such as the requested dress code, giving guests a sense of what to expect and how to prepare for the event.

The reception card should be placed face-up on top of the invitation. If you're using tissue paper or vellum, place it on top of the invitation card before adding the reception card. This will ensure that the ink doesn't smudge during the mailing process, although modern printing techniques have made this concern less prevalent. Centering the reception card on top of the invitation is a good idea, as it gives the invitation suite a neat and tidy appearance.

If you have multiple reception cards of different sizes, it's important to place them in order from largest to smallest. This creates a cohesive package that is aesthetically pleasing and easy to handle. It also ensures that all the information is presented clearly and concisely, making it convenient for guests to find the details they need.

Once the reception card is in place, you can move on to adding any remaining enclosure cards, such as maps, hotel accommodations, and travel information. These cards provide guests with additional context and practical details that will enhance their overall experience.

RSVP card and envelope

The RSVP card and envelope are a crucial part of your wedding stationery suite. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to include them in your wedding invitation:

Preparing the RSVP Card and Envelope

First, ensure that the RSVP envelopes are pre-addressed and pre-stamped. The envelopes should have the name(s) and address of the person(s) handling the RSVPs on the front. This could be you, your fiancé(e), either of your parents, your wedding planner, or someone in the wedding party. If you are handling the RSVPs yourself, you may address the cards with both your full names or just one person's name if you and your partner live separately. A cute alternative is "The future [insert last name(s)]" if you choose to share a last name.

Assembling the Wedding Invitation with the RSVP Card and Envelope

Now, you are ready to assemble your wedding invitation with the RSVP card and envelope.

Place the invitation card at the bottom, print side up. If you are using tissue paper or a vellum overlay, place it on top of the invitation card. Then, add the reception card, followed by any other enclosure cards such as a map, hotel accommodations card, and travel information.

Next, place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards, with the envelope flap on the left. Insert the RSVP card under the envelope flap, face up, so that the printed side is visible. Remember to place the RSVP card under the envelope flap, not inside the envelope.

Inserting the Assembled Suite into the Main Envelope

Finally, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the main envelope. The left edge of the invitation should go in first for a single-card invitation, while the folded edge should go in first for a folded invitation. Ensure that the text on the invitation is print-side up, so your guests can immediately read the invitation upon opening the envelope.

Additional Tips

• If you are using an inner envelope and an outer envelope, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the inner envelope first, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge for a folded invitation. When the inner envelope flap is opened, the printed side of the invitation should be visible. Then, insert the inner envelope into the outer envelope so that the handwritten guests' names on the inner envelope are visible when opened.
• If you are using a belly band, ribbon, or vellum wrap, add it to the suite before inserting it into the main envelope.
• Seal the envelope using a bottled envelope moistener or a wax seal.
• Don't forget to add address labels or stamps to the main envelope.
• Before mailing your wedding invitations, bring a fully assembled set to the post office to ensure you have sufficient postage. Consider hand-cancelling the invitations to reduce the risk of damage during mailing.

Frequently asked questions