Tying The Knot: Wedding Invites With A Twist

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your signature style while keeping tradition in mind. The assembly process can be tricky, but the end result is worth it. The invitation is the most important piece of the suite, providing key details such as the names of the couple, hosts, date, time, and location of the wedding. Response cards, enclosure cards, and RSVP cards are also essential. Once assembled, the suite is placed in an envelope, sealed, and addressed. Tying the suite with a ribbon or belly band adds a charming touch. This can be done by crossing the left piece of ribbon over and under the right, creating a knot, and then pulling both ends tight. With careful preparation and attention to detail, your wedding invitations will be a beautiful introduction to your special day.

Belly bands

When creating your own belly bands, consider the following steps:

• Lay the belly band over your stacked invitation suite, centring any personalisation.
• Apply pressure with your thumbs to the top of the band and enclosures to hold everything in place.
• Wrap your index fingers around the back of the invite and flip the suite towards you so that all the information is face down.
• Carefully pull one end of the band over the back and crease it, then repeat with the other end.
• Pull both ends of the belly band tight, without bending the sides of your stationery.
• Adhere the band together with glue dots or a clear adhesive sticker.

Vellum wraps

• Order or purchase vellum wraps: You can find vellum wraps specifically designed for wedding invitations online or at stationery stores. They are usually available in standard sizes, such as 5" x 7", to fit your invitations.
• Assembly: Vellum wraps will typically arrive flat and will need to be folded. Look for pre-scored lines on the vellum and fold along those lines to create the wrap.
• Enclose the invitation suite: Place your assembled invitation suite, including all cards and enclosures, into the vellum wrap. Ensure that everything is facing the correct way and that the printed sides are visible.
• Secure the vellum wrap: There are several ways to secure the vellum wrap. You can use a wax seal, a ribbon, or a custom sticker. For a classic look, a wax seal adds a touch of elegance. Alternatively, you can tie a ribbon around the vellum wrap, creating a knot, bow, or wraparound band. You can also use custom stickers to close the wraps.
• Final touches: Once your vellum wrap is secured, you can add any final embellishments, such as a silk ribbon or a belly band, to complete the look.
• Mailing: When sending your invitations, it is recommended to use double envelopes to protect the vellum-wrapped invitation during mailing. Place the inner envelope, with the guests' names and the invitation suite, inside the outer envelope, which has the mailing address.

Silk ribbon

How to Tie Silk Ribbon on Wedding Invitations:

The process of tying silk ribbon on your wedding invitations is straightforward but may take a few tries to perfect due to the fineness of the fabric. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Cut your ribbon to the appropriate length. For portrait-oriented invitations, cut 22 inches of ribbon. For landscape-oriented invitations, cut 31 inches. Use fabric shears or scissors for a clean, straight cut.
• Place your cut ribbon on a table, matte side up.
• Position your invitation suite in the centre of the ribbon.
• Fold both ends of the ribbon across the front of the invitation, tucking the left end under the right.
• Pull both ends tight and place your right middle finger in the middle of the twist to secure the tie.
• While holding the twist, use your left hand to fold the bottom piece of ribbon upward, so it is parallel to the other end.
• Now, fold the left end over the right and tuck it through the hole in the middle, similar to tying a shoelace.
• Continue to hold the twist while pulling the two ends tight.

Additional Tips:

• Use double envelopes to protect your silk-ribbon-adorned invitations during mailing. Place the tied invitation inside the inner envelope, and then put the inner envelope inside the outer envelope.
• When cutting the ribbon, ensure you use fabric shears or scissors to prevent fraying and achieve a polished finish.
• Consider the orientation of your invitations when determining ribbon length. For portrait invitations, a ribbon band of 13 inches is recommended, while for landscape invitations, 16 inches is suggested.
• If you opt for a simple ribbon knot, cut 22 inches for portrait invitations and 31 inches for landscape. For a ribbon bow, cut 30 inches for portrait and 39 inches for landscape.
• To attach a ribbon band neatly, use double-sided tape instead of glue to avoid messiness and ensure a flat finish.
• Remember that adding ribbon to your invitations will require additional postage, so take a fully assembled invitation to the post office to determine the correct amount.
• If you plan to use ribbon, consider ordering double envelopes to provide extra protection for your invitations during mailing.

Double envelopes

The inner envelope is placed inside the outer envelope, with the informal address facing out. The inner envelope is then opened and the invitation, response items, and direction cards are placed inside. The inner envelope is closed and then placed inside the outer envelope, ready for mailing.

Wax seals

Choosing Your Wax Seal Design

First, you'll need to choose the design of your wax seal. You can opt for a simple initial or monogram wax seal, or go for a more intricate design such as a floral or peony pattern. You can also customise your wax seal with your own artwork or initials. There are various colours and size options available, so you can match your wedding theme and colour palette.

Applying the Wax Seal

Once you have your wax seal, it's time to apply it to your invitations. If you're using a vellum jacket, slide your assembled invitation suite into the folded area and pinch it with your left hand. Then, fold the right side of the vellum over and place your wax seal to hold the flaps closed. Remember to expose the adhesive on the back of the wax seal before placing it on your invitation.

Using Self-Adhesive Wax Seals

Alternatively, you can opt for self-adhesive wax seals, which are easy to use and require no assembly. Simply remove the paper backing and position the seal on your envelope, vellum jacket, invitation, or place card. This option is convenient and mess-free, and you can find various designs and colours to match your wedding theme.

Mailing Wax Seals

When mailing your invitations with wax seals, it's important to take some precautions to ensure the seals remain intact. Use a bottled envelope moistener to wet the gummed edge of the envelope, being careful not to use too much liquid. Place a heavy book on top of the sealed envelopes to ensure they are securely closed. Additionally, consider hand-cancelling your invitations at the post office to reduce the risk of damage during mailing.

Frequently asked questions