Wedding Invitations: The Basics

By Lei Lydle Founder and Editor Last Updated: 1/1/2000

It seems like choosing invitations might be something simple - but it is not. There are so many options in paper and typeface. The wording has to be just right. There are numerous inserts that you must decide upon, etc. Trust me choosing invitations can be difficult if you are not prepared.

Style and Formality

Generally, the style of wedding invitations varies depending upon the style of the wedding. If the wedding is formal you should choose a more formal invitation. If the wedding is less formal, you might choose something with a picture of the bride and groom or something more personal and creative.

The Paper

Wedding invitations are usually printed or engraved on ivory, cream, off-white or white paper. For the most part, heavier paper looks a better than thinner paper, so buy the heaviest paper that you can afford.

Single Card or Folded?

You will find that some invitations are folded and others are not. Either is perfectly acceptable.

Invitation Liners

You can choose to have tissue liners in your invitations. The purpose of these liners in the past was to protect the invitations from blotting or smudging. This is not really necessary today and so these inserts may be omitted.

Where To Find A Good Stationer

As with any other wedding professional, the key to finding a good stationer is to ask family and friends for recommendations. Or you can always choose from our list of excellent Preferred Professionals.

Another good source of information is to attend local bridal shows. There are usually several stationers at these shows and they will often have sample books for you to preview.

You may also call the Discount Bridal Service to find out what options are available through their service.

When To Shop For Invitations

You should start shopping around for invitations and stationery as soon as possible, especially if you are having a short engagement. Don't try to got to more than one stationer in a day. They have so many books for you to look through - it can be very overwhelming.

Just keep in mind that it can take anywhere from two weeks to two months to receive your invitations depending on the stationer. You will also need to give yourself a couple of weeks in case the invitations come in with a mistake on them.

Addressing & Stuffing

If you are going to address the invitations by hand and you are having a large wedding, I suggest having a shower or bridesmaids party to accomplish this activity. It could be fun to sip on mimosas while talking and writing. Just make sure that you are very organized before you start this activity by assigning a specific list to each person. Have each bridesmaid check off each envelope she has addressed and stuffed.

If you are short on time there are services that will assemble, address, stuff, stamp and mail your invitations for you. Check our Preferred Professionals for more information.

When To Mail

You should mail the invitations to out-of-town guests at least six weeks in advance so that they can make travel arrangements. Mail invitations to local guests at least four weeks in advance.

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