From 'I Will' to 'I Do': A Timeline for Ordering Wedding Stationery
Hello, happy couples!
Hey there, newly-engaged couples! Congratulations on taking the plunge into wedding planning – it's an exciting journey ahead! As you start envisioning your dream day, one of the first tasks on your checklist is likely ordering your wedding stationery. But with so many details to consider, it can feel overwhelming to know where to begin. That's where we come in! In this blog, we'll walk you through a timeline for ordering your wedding stationery, ensuring everything is ready to go from the moment you say "I will" to the magical moment you say "I do."
Begin Early:
First things first, give yourself plenty of time to navigate the world of wedding stationery. While you don't need to have every detail finalised at this stage, having a rough idea of your wedding theme and colour scheme will help guide your stationery decisions. And don't forget to account for design time – this isn't an Amazon Prime delivery situation!
Save-the-Dates (12-18 Months Before):
Once you've locked in your wedding date and venue, it's time to spread the word to your nearest and dearest! In my experience, sending out save-the-dates about 12 to 18 months before your wedding day hits the sweet spot. (especially if you're planning a destination wedding or getting married during peak season.) This gives your guests plenty of time to make travel arrangements and ensure they can celebrate with you.
Invitations (2-6 Months Before):
As your wedding day approaches, it's time to make it official with your formal wedding invitations. I recommend sending these out approximately 2 to 6 months before your big day. However, keep in mind that the timing might vary depending on factors like destination weddings or whole weekend celebrations, which may require more advanced notice. Your invitations should include all the vital details: the date, time, and locations of your ceremony and reception, along with RSVP information and any additional event details you'd like to share.
Day-Of Stationery (2 Month Before):
Don't forget about the little details that will make your wedding day extra special! There's no general rule of thumb here; simply ensure you order in plenty of time to receive them for your big day. I would suggest ordering at least 2 months before your wedding to finalise and order any day-of stationery you'll need, such as ceremony programs, menu cards, place cards, and signage. These small touches will tie everything together and ensure your day runs smoothly. However, if you do want to order earlier, that's okay too! You can lock in your dream stationery and have it delivered nearer the time.
5. Thank-You Cards (After the Honeymoon):
Last but certainly not least, don't forget to show your gratitude to all those who celebrated with you! Once you've returned from your honeymoon and had a chance to catch your breath, it's time to tackle those thank-you cards. Aim to send these out within a few weeks of your wedding day, expressing your heartfelt appreciation for each guest's presence and any thoughtful gifts they may have given.
And there you have it – a complete timeline for ordering your wedding stationery, from the early stages of planning to the post-wedding thank-yous. By staying organised and giving yourself plenty of time, you'll ensure that every detail is perfect and that your wedding day is a true reflection of your love story. Happy planning!