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Wedding Invitation Suite: What to Include and When to Send

Stationary by: Papira

Planning your dream wedding starts with setting the tone, and your wedding invitations are the perfect way to do just that. At Lausch Events, we understand the importance of every detail in creating a memorable experience for your guests. In this comprehensive guide to wedding invitations, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make a lasting impression—from what to include and wording etiquette, to design tips and timeline management.

Why Wedding Invitations Matter

Wedding invitations are more than just an announcement. They are your guests’ first glimpse into the style, theme, and formality of your big day. Whether you’re hosting an intimate garden ceremony or a black-tie gala, your invitations set the stage.

For couples aiming to be eco-conscious or sending invitations to areas with unreliable postal systems, digital invitations can be just as impactful. They offer a sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective alternative, ensuring everyone gets the necessary details without compromising on style.

By investing in quality materials and thoughtful design, whether physical or digital, you’re creating keepsakes that your guests will cherish long after the event.

What is a Wedding Invitation Suite?

A wedding invitation suite refers to the full collection of stationery pieces that accompany your main invitation. A typical suite might include the invitation itself, RSVP cards, details cards (with accommodation or schedule information), envelopes, and sometimes even custom additions like maps or menu cards. These components work together to convey all the necessary information your guests need for your special day, while also reflecting the tone and theme of your wedding.

Any other wedding paper (e.g. save-the-dates, thank-you notes, wedding programs etc.) is not part of the wedding invitation suite, but rather part of the wedding stationery suite.

Essential vs. Optional

Stationary by: Shasta Bell Calligraphy

When designing your wedding invitations, it’s helpful to know what’s necessary versus what can be considered optional. Here’s a breakdown:

Essential Elements in a Wedding Invitation

  1. Wedding Invitation
  2. RSVP (or Response Card)
  3. Addressed/Postmarked Envelope
  4. Details Card
  5. Outer or Mailing Envelope
  6. Postage

Essential

Wedding Invitation

Your wedding invitation suite should include the actual invitation, and information such as:

The Host Names:
Traditionally, the hosts are mentioned first.

The Couple’s Names: Clearly state your names to avoid any confusion.

Date & Time: Specify the day, month, year, and time of your ceremony.

The Venue: Include the full address of the ceremony location. If the reception is at a different venue, be sure to include that information as well.

If the reception is at the same location, include this information at the bottom, to avoid confusion.

Stationary by: Lily & Roe Co.

ESSENTIAL

RSVP or Response Card

Your RSVP Card should include the following:

  • A blank line for guests to write their names.
  • An attendance line for guests to accept or decline your invite. This could be formatted as checkboxes, circling or fill-in-the-blank lines.
  • A RSVP deadline (featured in a prominent place).

If you're offering meal options, include checkboxes for guests to select from choices. Also provide a fill-in-the-blank line for guests to detail dietary restrictions.

Note: Deadlines should be at least 4-6 weeks prior to the wedding.

Stationary by: Paper / Paper

ESSENTIAL

Addressed/Postmarked Envelope for RSVP Card

This is a small envelope meant to hold just the RSVP card. It should be provided empty, with a stamp and your return address, making it easy for guests to send back their responses.

OR, if you have chosen digital RSVPs via your wedding website, this may still be essential to ensure that all guests, especially elders or those who may have difficulty navigating online responses, can easily respond.

Stationary by: Shine Wedding Invitations

ESSENTIAL

Details Card

A details card is a great way to share extra information about the wedding without cluttering the main invitation:

  • Itinerary
  • URL for your wedding website
  • QR code to RSVP online
  • Accommodation information
  • Transportation information
  • Special requests (e.g. unplugged ceremony)
  • Registry information
  • Dress Code

Stationary by: Lily & Roe Co.

ESSENTIAL

Outer or Mailing Envelope

You will require an envelope to mail the invitation and contents.

If you do not admire your own handwriting, opt to have it elegantly written by a calligrapher. Otherwise, many stationary companies offer addressing services.

Calligraphy by: Pretty Written Things

ESSENTIAL

Postage

With all the stationery in your invitation suite, determine the correct postage by getting it weighed at the post office. This is also a great opportunity to explore stamp options that compliment the theme of your wedding.

Tip: When you're ready to mail the invitations, ask for hand-cancellation of the stamps instead of machine cancellation. While all stamps need to be canceled to prevent reuse, machine cancellations can leave unsightly, wavy lines on your envelopes.

Vintage Postage from: Flourish Fine Writing


Optional Elements in a Wedding Invitation

1. Inner Envelope

2. Enclosure Cards

  • Reception Card
  • Wedding Website Card
  • Directions or Map Card
  • Accommodations Card
  • Weekend Events Card

3. Invitation Wrapper


Optional elements are where creativity truly thrives, allowing couples to infuse their personalities and wedding theme into the invitation suite. From unique enclosures to unexpected presentation styles, these details can elevate the guest experience.

This is the perfect opportunity to think outside the box—literally. For example, rather than a traditional envelope, couples might opt for an invitation box, which can include all stationery elements along with small keepsakes that match the wedding theme. Destination weddings might feature invitations styled like plane tickets, or a resort-themed wedding could include an elegant key card invitation to resemble a luxury resort check-in experience. A ski resort wedding could come with an invitation styled like a miniature ski gondola made from stationery, enhancing the immersive theme of the celebration. These creative details not only make a memorable impression but also set the tone for an unforgettable wedding celebration.


1. Inner Envelope

Stationary by: Creative Line & Co.

The inner envelope, which is slightly smaller than the outer mailing envelope, holds the invitation and specifies who is (and isn’t) invited to the wedding. This is where you’ll write the names of each guest. If someone has a plus-one, include both names. If they can bring a guest, list their name along with "and Guest." If there's no plus-one, just write the guest’s name.

This is also how you can indicate whether or not children are invited. For instance, if you’re inviting a family, address the envelope to "The Lassos." If it’s an adults-only event, address it to "Ted and Rebecca Lasso."

2. Enclosure Cards

Stationary by: Anticipate Invitations

Enclosure cards are additional cards included in a wedding invitation suite to provide guests with important details beyond the main invitation. These can include:

  • Reception Card - If your wedding reception will take place at a different venue than your ceremony, be sure to include a separate card with the reception details. The wording should reflect the event’s formality and style.
  • Wedding Website Card - Direct guests to your wedding website for additional details.
  • Directions or Maps Card - Help guests navigate to the venue, especially if it's in a remote location.
  • Accommodations Card - List nearby hotels and booking information for out-of-town guests.
  • Weekend Events Card - If you’re planning a multi-day celebration, this card can outline the schedule of events, such as a welcome dinner, brunch, or excursions for guests traveling for the wedding. All extra events can be included on one card, or separate cards can be created for each added event, allowing for a more detailed and organized presentation.

3. Invitation Wrapper

A decorative element such as a belly band, silk ribbon, or vellum wrap can add a sophisticated touch to your suite. While not essential, it helps keep all enclosure cards together and enhances the overall presentation.


Wedding Invitation Etiquette & Wording Tips

While modern weddings allow for flexibility, some etiquette rules are still important to follow:

Who's Hosting?

Traditionally, the bride’s parents hosted the wedding, and their names appeared on the invitation.

“[Host Names] request the honor of your presence at the wedding of [Your Names] on [Date] at [Time], [Venue Address]. Reception to follow.”

However, if the couple is hosting or both families are contributing, the invitation wording can reflect that.

If you need assistance with invitation wording, Shine Wedding Invitations provides an interactive diagram and various wording examples to suit various circumstances.

RSVP Card

For formal RSVPs, add an "M" at the beginning of the line for guests to use the appropriate honorific (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss or Mx) before their name. This ensures you know who's attending and how to spell everyone's name correctly for the seating chart.

PLUS-ONES

Be clear about who’s invited by addressing the invitation properly. On the RSVP card, there are a few options to determine the plus-ones:

  • Option 1 - Provide a line stating, 'We have reserved __ seats in your honor,' allowing the guest to see the number of people invited.
  • Option 2 - Include a checkbox option for the guest to indicate if they are bringing a plus-one.
  • Option 3 - Offer a space for guests to write the name of their plus-one, ensuring you have accurate seating and meal preferences.

If you are not allowing plus-ones, only the invited guests's name should appear on the envelope. In addition, write the invited guest's name on the RSVP card and include a line confirming the number of guests attending (e.g. 1).

NO-GIFT POLICIES

If you prefer not to receive gifts, you can include this information on your wedding website. Avoid mentioning it on the invitation itself to keep the tone focused on the celebration.

Stationary by: Papira

Common Wedding Invitation Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing Key Information: Double-check that all essential details are included.
  • Sending Too Late: Aim to send invitations early enough to accommodate your guests’ schedules.
  • Overcomplicating the Design: Keep it elegant and easy to read.
  • Neglecting Proofreads: Have multiple people review the text to catch any errors.

When to Send Your Invitations

Timing is everything when it comes to wedding invitations. Follow this timeline to ensure your guests have ample notice:

  • Save-the-Dates: Send or e-send these 6-9 months before the wedding
  • Formal Invitations: Mail or e-send them 6-8 weeks before the wedding
  • RSVP Deadline: Set the deadline 4-6 weeks before the wedding

If you’re hosting a destination wedding, give guests even more time by sending invitations 3-6 months in advance.


Designing Your Wedding Invitations

Your invitations should reflect the theme and tone of your wedding. Here are some key tips to consider:

Choose a Cohesive Design

Stick to a consistent color palette, typography, and motif that matches your overall wedding theme.

Fine Art Stationary by: Still Waters Paperie

Quality Matters

Invest in premium paper, such as cotton or vellum, for a luxurious feel.

Choose a Printing Method

(1) Digital printing - creates a flat, smooth image on paper (quickest and most budget-friendly method)

(2) Letterpress printing - requires a custom metal plate which is inked and then pressed into each card, leaving an impression of the design against your fingertips

(3) Foil stamping - requires a custom metal plate that presses the design into each card using metallic foil in lieu of ink (considered the most expensive method)

Hire a Professional Designer

A professional invitation designer can help bring your vision to life by creating a custom suite that reflects your wedding theme and personality. They ensure that every element, from typography to color schemes and embellishments, aligns seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of your wedding. Whether you prefer elegant calligraphy, minimalist designs, or intricate illustrations, a professional can craft an invitation suite that leaves a lasting impression while maintaining functionality and clarity.

Below is an example of a custom invitation suite designed for a wedding in Nantucket:

Stationary by: Anticipate Invitations

Design Your Own

There are many websites which you may use to design your own wedding invitations; such as Minted Weddings, The Knot, Zazzle, Zola, Etsy, and more.

Eco-Friendly Options

Consider using recycled materials, sustainable inks or digital invitations for a sustainable touch. Read our related article: The ultimate guide to eco-friendly weddings.

Personal Touches

Add unique details like custom illustrations, wax seals, or gold foil accents. Below are examples of the different ways to personalize your wedding invitations, fulfilled by professional artists.

Custom Wax Seals

Incorporating wax seals provides an elegant finishing touch that elevates the tactile experience of receiving a wedding invitation. They can be created in various colors and shapes, and can feature monograms, initials, or custom-designed emblems. They can also secure invitation wraps, belly bands, or envelopes.

Custom Hand Painted Illustrations

Pay homage and artistically document all that is enchanting about your chosen wedding destination. Meticulously rendered watercolor illustrations of ocean scenes, countrysides, or bustling cities around the world have inspired some of their most incredible invitations suites.

Photographed by: Olivier Neuville

Blind Embossed Details

Blind embossing is a printing technique where a design, text, or pattern is pressed into the paper without using ink or foil, creating a subtle raised effect. This elegant and tactile feature enhances wedding invitations by adding depth, sophistication, and a luxurious feel while maintaining a minimalist and refined look.

Illustrated Envelope Liner

Envelope liners are decorative inserts placed inside the envelope to add an elegant and luxurious touch. They can Introduce colors, patterns, or motifs that match the wedding theme. They can also feature monograms, custom illustrations, or floral designs for a personalized effect.

Custom Vellum

The semi-translucent material adds a delicate layering effect, subtly revealing the invitation beneath while adding texture and depth. Here, the vellum wrap features the couple's chosen wedding flowers.

Silk Ribbon Wrapping

Silk ribbons are a luxurious and elegant addition to wedding invitations, adding texture and refinement. They can be used to secure enclose cards in a stylish way or complement the colour scheme and them of the wedding.

Creative Belly Band

Belly bands are stylish paper or fabric wraps that encircle the wedding invitation suite, securing all enclosure cards neatly together. They can be customized with monograms or initials, printed patterns or textures, wax seals, ribbons or embellishments. Here, a band is creatively used for multi-press wedding invite packets.

Custom Inner Envelope

"A good invitation (to me) has a story to tell and is visually layered. As it's taken apart, the invitee is given the opportunity to make their own discoveries through the suite's revealed components." - Michael Musser

Leather Inner Envelope

The inner envelope provides an additional layer of presentation and protection for your wedding invitation suite. Be creative with materials like these leather half-moon enclosures contain the handmade paper invitation suites.

Custom Heraldry

Custom heraldry adds a regal and personalized element to invitations. Incorporating a family crest, monogram, or custom-designed emblem can elevate the sophistication of your wedding stationery. This bespoke detail adds a sense of tradition and uniqueness, making your invitations truly one-of-a-kind.

Decorate the Outer Envelope

In addition to the custom stamps, and handwritten addresses on the outer envelope, consider adding swirls and flourishes in calligraphy to enhance the elegance and provide a vintage or romantic aesthetic.

Ornate Postage Frame

The outer envelope is the first thing guests see, making it an opportunity to set the tone for your wedding. These particular rubber stamps resemble picture frames and are perfectly sized to frame your postage stamps.

Bold Colours & Shapes

Couples may also choose to make bold design choices within their suite, such as using vibrant colors or unique card shapes like scalloped edges. These elements can add personality and make the invitation stand out while still keeping it elegant and cohesive with the wedding theme.

Varied Card Shapes

Alongside the invitations, crafted with a wave die-cut, there are half-moon detail cards, adding a dynamic visual appeal.

Colour-Blocked Sections

The mix of warm hues in asymmetrical sections creates a visually engaging design. In addition, the layered insert cards stacked together with a gold paperclip creates an organized yet stylish presentation.

FAQs About Wedding Invitations

1. What is the typical cost of wedding invitations?

The typical cost of wedding invitations varies widely depending on several factors, including the type of paper, printing method, number of inserts, number of guests, postage services, and level of customization.

On average, couples spend between $400 and $1,000.

Couples interested in a custom designed invitation suite should set aside $3,000 - $8,000.

2. Can I include registry information on my invitation?

It’s considered more polite to include registry details on your wedding website, not the invitation itself.

3. Do I need to send invitations to people I know won’t attend?

Yes, it’s a courteous gesture to send an invitation to close family and friends, even if they can’t make it.

4. How Many Invitations Should I Order?

Order about 10-15% more invitations than your guest list requires. This accounts for last-minute guests and any mistakes during the addressing process.

5. Do We Need to Include an RSVP Card?

If you’re sending traditional paper invitations, yes. However, many couples are opting for digital RSVPs via their wedding website, which can streamline the process.


Conclusion: Make It Memorable

Wedding invitations are your chance to build excitement and anticipation for your big day. By putting thought and care into the design, wording, and timing, you’ll create an unforgettable first impression. At Lausch Events, we specialize in crafting weddings that are as unique as the couples we celebrate.

Ready to start planning your wedding? Contact us today for more inspiration and expert guidance.

Stationary by: Lily & Roe Co.