Timelines for Ordering Your Wedding Stationery: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted by Katie O'Donovan on May 30, 2023

Planning a wedding involves meticulous attention to detail, and one crucial aspect is ordering your wedding stationery. From save-the-dates to invitations, each piece requires careful planning and timing to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the timelines for ordering your wedding stationery, allowing you to stay organized and create beautiful designs that set the perfect tone for your special day.

Save-the-Date Cards: (9-12 Months Before the Wedding): Save-the-dates are typically sent out 9 to 12 months before your wedding to give guests ample time to mark their calendars. Start designing your save-the-dates early, considering your wedding theme and colors. Order them around 9 to 12 months prior to your wedding date to allow for design, printing, and mailing.
Wedding Invitations: (4-6 Months Before the Wedding): Wedding invitations are the centerpiece of your stationery suite and should be ordered 4 to 6 months before your wedding. Begin by selecting a design that matches your theme and reflects your style. Allow sufficient time for customization, proofing, printing, and addressing envelopes. Aim to send out your invitations around 2 to 3 months before the wedding, ensuring guests have ample time to RSVP.
RSVP Cards: (If Including with Invitations): Order your RSVP cards at the same time as your invitations. These cards are crucial for guest responses, allowing you to plan for seating, meals, and other logistics. Ensure you have enough time for design, printing, and assembly before mailing your invitations.
Ceremony Programs: (2-6 Weeks Before the Wedding): Ceremony programs outline the order of events and provide important information for guests. Order them approximately 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding to allow time for design, printing, and assembling. Consider including personal touches, such as meaningful quotes or details about your wedding party.
Table Plan & Place Cards (2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding): Table Plan and place cards help guide guests to their assigned seats. Order them around 2 to 4 weeks before the wedding to allow for design, printing, and organizing. Personalize each card with guest names and table assignments, ensuring a seamless seating arrangement.
Table Numbers or Names: (2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding): Table numbers or names add charm and functionality to your reception. Order them around 2 to 4 weeks before the wedding, considering your theme and overall design. Ensure they are clearly visible and coordinate with your table decor.
Menu Cards: (2-4 Weeks Before the Wedding): Menu cards showcase the culinary delights awaiting your guests. Order them approximately 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding to finalize the menu details and allow time for design, printing, and assembly. Incorporate your wedding theme and style into the design, enhancing your tablescape.
Thank-You Cards: (Any time after the wedding): Thank-you cards are a thoughtful way to express gratitude to your guests. Consider ordering more than you think you'll need to account for unexpected guests or additional thank-you notes post-wedding. Use photos from your wedding to add the extra personalised touch.

Ordering your wedding stationery requires careful planning and adherence to timelines. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that each piece, from save-the-dates to thank-you cards, is beautifully designed and delivered on time. Remember to consider your wedding theme, personalize your stationery, and allow ample time for design, printing, and mailing. With attention to detail and proper organization, your wedding stationery will be a reflection of your unique love story and set the tone for an unforgettable celebration.