CONFESSION: I am a paper and design freak. I love invitation suites so much. It is one of the first details I photograph, party because I love them so much but also because they are an important part of your day. It is one of the first things your friends and family will see about your wedding, and if it isn’t done correctly, misinformation can occur (which leads to stressful situations…which we definitely do not want).

So what all do you need to have a solid invitation game and live the suite life? There are five major parts of any invitation suite for which you will want to plan:

1.) SAVE THE DATE

One of the first pieces of stationery you will send upon engagement is your save the date card, which will share with your future guest the date you intend to say “I do.”  This card is generally sent out at least six months before your wedding.

2.) THE INVITATION

The star of the stationery show, this is where all the vital information goes, such as the couples’ names, host/parents’ names, date, time, and venue. Typically, these are sized A7 (5×7 inches).

3.) RSVP CARD

Also known as a reply card, this piece is used so your guests can let you know if they are attending your wedding. This should include a “reply by” date, which tends to be about 3 weeks before the event. This would also be the spot to have them specify dinner choice, if applicable. The standard size is A2 (4.25×5.5 inches) or a 4×6 postcard.

4.) INFORMATION CARD

Sometimes the invitation gets a little tight with all the information that goes onto it. This is why it is nice to include an information card as well. Accommodations, registries, and additional contact information for the venue are all example of the sorts of details you can place on an information card. Additionally, a map is also included with this piece of the suite.

5.) THANK YOU CARDS

By the time it is all said and done, you are going to have a ton of people to thank stocking up on thank you cards will be wise. They don’t have to match the rest of your stationery (but it sure is fun if they do).

There are so many places where you can purchase templates or have design work done for you to ensure each one of these elements are included in your wedding invitations, or you can totally piece a suite together yourself; it’s all good so long as your are sending something out to say “We’re saying I DO!” 

On Mondays we educate! Check out the blog every Monday for a new post to help you plan your wedding your way! Find past posts here!