A COMPLETE GUIDE TO WEDDING STATIONERY

May 20

When it comes to wedding planning, your wedding stationery is so much more than just paper — it sets the tone for your entire celebration. From the moment your save the date cards land in the hands of your loved ones to the final thank-you note sent after your big day, each piece helps tell your love story. It’s one of the first chances you have to share a glimpse of your wedding day, and one of the last details that ties everything together.

Photography by Kurtz Orpia, Stationery by Cody Calligraphy

Whether you're dreaming of luxury wedding invitations for a black-tie affair or looking for eco-friendly options to match your values, our wedding stationery guide will walk you through everything you need to consider — timelines, design choices, and day-of details — to ensure your stationery suite speaks to your wedding theme with both elegance and clarity.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN WEDDING STATIONERY?

When we talk about a wedding invitation suite, we’re referring to each of the components that get sent to your guests (and a few that show up on the wedding day itself). While your stationery can be as simple or as detailed as you’d like, here are the most common pieces to consider.

Save the Date Cards: These let your guests know to mark their calendars. Send them 6–8 months before your wedding date (or 8–12 months for a destination wedding). This gives your wedding guests ample time to make arrangements for travel and accommodations.
Formal Wedding Invitations: Typically mailed out 6–8 weeks before your big day, your invitation may include:
- The wedding invitation card itself
- An RSVP card (or response card) — a separate card with a stamped return envelope or QR code
- A reception card or insert cards with additional important information like the location of the ceremony, dress code, timing, or your wedding website URL.
Wedding Envelope Details: Don’t overlook your outer envelope, envelope liners, and envelope colour — they're small elements that can make a big impact.
Finishing Touches: Add personality with details like wax seals, belly bands, or a custom monogram.

And if you’re leaning toward more eco-friendly options like online wedding invitations or a digital wedding invitation, just be sure to include all the same key details in a clear, user-friendly format.

Photography by Kayla Potter, Stationery by Statue Rue

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOOK AND FEEL: PAPER TYPES AND COLOUR PALETTES

Let your wedding theme, venue, and colour palette guide your design. Your stationery is a chance to reflect your personal style, whether that's classic and timeless or something a little more modern and fun.

Paper Type: Luxe letterpress, vellum, recycled or plantable paper — no matter what you choose, the material can set the tone for your celebration and even reduce your carbon footprint.
Custom Design vs. Templates: If you're looking for something truly unique, consider a custom wedding invitation created by a designer with years of experience, while wedding invitation templates are great for couples looking for beautiful, budget-conscious solutions.
Color Options and Exact Matches: Work with a professional stationer or utilize free designer assistance to ensure your stationery suite matches your colour palette and theme seamlessly.
Wedding Invitation Wording: Your wording sets the tone — formal, classic, whimsical, or modern. Whether you're going traditional for a formal invitation and using middle and last names or opting for a more casual affair, clarity and etiquette matter.

Photography by Alexandra del Bello Photography, Stationery by Cecile Lau Calligraphy

Photography by Emily Michelson, Letterpress Stationery by Blanche Heirloom Co.

Photography by Danielle Cargill Photograpy

DAY-OF WEDDING STATIONERY DETAILS

Once the big day arrives, there are a few pieces of stationery that help your wedding run smoothly and feel complete. These thoughtful additions go a long way in making your guests feel taken care of and in making your day feel cohesive from start to finish.

Ceremony Programs: A lovely way to guide guests through your celebration and highlight key members of your wedding party or a meaningful family member participating in the ceremony.
Seating Charts, Escort Cards, and Place Cards: Help guests find their seats with ease and in style. (Tip: An escort card tells guests which table they’re at, while a wedding place card designates their exact seat.)
Table Numbers and Menu Cards: These add a polished touch to your reception tables and are a great way to communicate food allergies or menu choices.
Welcome Signs and Wedding Signs: These pieces help direct guests, especially if you have a different venue for the ceremony and reception.

Photography by Kayla Yestal, Stationery by Flourish Calligraphy

Photography by Will Reid, Stationery by All That’s Lovely Paper Co.

Photography by Leydon Photography, Stationery by Statue Rue

From elegant luxury wedding invitations to charming DIY wedding invites, there’s no one right way to do your stationery. The best wedding stationery reflects who you are as a couple. Whether you're drawing overall inspiration from your own wedding invitations, browsing wedding invitation ideas from a community of independent artists, or working through design challenges with a trusted stationer, lean into your vision.

Looking for the perfect stationer to bring your vision to life? Explore our curated Swish List for a collection of local creatives ready to help you craft the best wedding invites for your special day.