Today, we’re diving into something that often gets overlooked but is SO important: your wedding stationery timeline. From save-the-dates to thank you cards, we’re talking about how to manage all the paper pieces that will make your wedding experience complete—and stress-free! And if you’re planning a wedding here in Ireland or across Europe, I’ve got some tips that are especially relevant to your needs.
So, grab a cuppa (or whatever you’re sipping on today), and let’s get into it.
Episode breakdown
Why Wedding Stationery is Important
Now, before we dive into the timeline itself, let’s take a moment to talk about why wedding stationery is so important. Stationery is often the first glimpse your guests will have into your wedding day. The style and design set the tone for your entire celebration. And let’s not forget, there’s some serious practicality involved! You need to communicate all the key details, from the date to the dress code, and that’s where your stationery comes in.
But the question is: When should you actually get started with this? That’s what we’re talking about today—timing your stationery pieces so you don’t feel rushed or behind.
Step-by-Step Wedding Stationery Timeline
- 12 months before the wedding: The Save-the-Dates
When you get engaged, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of it all. But one of the first things you should do is think about sending out save-the-dates. Now, I know this can feel early, but trust me, especially in Ireland, wedding venues can book up fast. So, it’s a good idea to send these out about 12 months in advance, particularly if you’re planning a peak season wedding, like summer or around the holidays.
Save-the-dates don’t need to be overly formal. In fact, many couples opt for something more casual or creative, especially if you’re using your wedding website. Just make sure it includes the key details—date and location—so your guests can mark their calendars early.
- 9-12 months before: Wedding Invitations (Design & Order)
Okay, now that the save-the-dates are out, the next big stationery task is the wedding invitation. Ideally, you should start designing and ordering your wedding invitations 9 to 12 months before your big day. This gives you time to consider the design, pick your paper, and sort out any customisation options. Keep in mind that shipping can take a bit of time, so leave a little wiggle room.
Also, consider what you want to include in the invitation suite. Apart from the actual invite, couples often include an RSVP card, directions to the venue, accommodation details, and perhaps a little information on your gift registry or wedding website.
- 6-8 weeks before: The RSVP Deadline and Additional Stationery
Now, once the invitations are in the post and you’ve got your RSVPs rolling in, it’s time to think about the next phase of your stationery. You’ll want to make sure your RSVP deadline is set for about 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to finalise seating arrangements, meal choices, and other logistics.
A Few Weeks Before: Final Touches
3-4 weeks before: Wedding Day Stationery
Here, we’re talking about things like your mass booklets, place cards, menus, and signage. These are the last details to consider, and it’s all about making your day run smoothly. I always recommend having a ‘day-of’ stationery plan in place—especially if you’re going to have a wedding planner or coordinator helping you manage things.
You can either DIY these or order them from your stationery designer, but whatever you decide, aim to have everything printed and organised well ahead of time so you’re not scrambling last minute.
Post-Wedding Stationery
And finally, we come to the last bit of your stationery journey—thank you cards. These are often the last items you’ll need to think about, and while they’re not as time-sensitive as your invitations, I recommend getting them ordered and written soon after the wedding so you don’t lose momentum.
- 1-2 months after: Thank You Cards
You want to send your thank you cards as soon as possible after the wedding—ideally within 2 months. These cards should express your gratitude for your guests’ presence, gifts, and support. If you’re doing thank you cards yourself, you can include a personalised note about a specific gift or moment that stood out during the day.
Wrap-Up: Tips for Staying On Track
- Start Early: Planning your stationery early, especially your save-the-dates and invitations, gives you plenty of time to deal with any unexpected delays or changes.
- Be Organised: Keep a wedding planning binder or digital file for all your stationery-related documents. This way, you won’t lose track of any important details.
- Consider Local Designers: If you’re in Ireland or elsewhere in Europe, consider supporting local stationery designers who can help you incorporate regional flair into your wedding invitations and other stationery.
- Don’t Overcomplicate: While it’s fun to have themed, custom stationery, don’t get bogged down by trying to have too many pieces. Keep it simple and true to your style.
And finally, remember—stationery is more than just paper. It’s a reflection of you, your partner, and the celebration you’re creating. So, make sure to enjoy the process!
