Overwhelmed by wedding invitations? Wondering when to send your Save-the-Dates? Completely confused by seating charts, table numbers and place names?
I’m sure you’re not alone! Finalising your wedding stationery can feel like a huge undertaking. As well as selecting a design, there’s the correct wording to consider. Then, once you’ve picked out an invitation, you also need to identify what stationery you’ll need on-the-day.
Of course, a good designer will guide you through this process, but it doesn’t hurt to be prepared. What follows is an introductory overview of all things wedding invitations and on-the-day stationery.
Wedding stationery can be divided into three categories: items you’ll need before your wedding, on-the-day stationery, and stationery you’ll need after your wedding. Let’s look at these categories in more detail…
These are sent well in advance to notify guests of your wedding date and help them plan accordingly.
Your formal or full invitation should include specific venue details, timings and RSVP information (don’t forget to give people a deadline). You can also add inserts with details about travel, accommodation and gifting.
Invitations should generally be sent 8-12 weeks before your wedding. The exact timing depends on the location of your event and whether you’ve previously sent Save the Dates.
If you’re wondering when to order your invitations, take a look at this post by artisanal print and stationery studio, Rose Press.
Not everything on this list is essential. What you need will depend on things like the type of wedding you’re having, the layout of your venue, and your plans for the day.
Wedding signage can be used in a number of ways throughout your celebration. For example, greet your guests with a dedicated welcome sign. Use signs or way markers to guide people from one part of your venue to another. They’re also handy for communicating important information such as your desire for an unplugged ceremony.
Usually presented in the form of a booklet, this explains the sequence of the ceremony and outlines any religious/cultural customs. It’s also common to include details of any readings and music.
This is a chronological timeline of your wedding’s key events. Whether it takes the form of a large sign or a single sheet given to each guest, it’s designed to ensure everyone knows what’s happening and when.
This guides guests to their assigned table and a specific seat. It’s usually placed at or near the entrance to your wedding breakfast.
Escort cards direct guests to a specific table, but not a particular seat. Usually, escort cards are grouped together in a visible display and used instead of or alongside a seating chart.
Wedding place cards are positioned on the tables themselves, informing guests of their exact seat. This approach can be helpful if you need to ensure people receive a specific meal.
These are used to identify each table and help guests locate their seats. Couples often choose table names that are meaningful to them or to reflect a broader theme.
Menus
These are sent to express your gratitude to friends and family for attending or participating in your wedding as well as any gifts they may have given. Most people aim to mail these within three months of their wedding date.
Paper isn’t the only option for your wedding stationery. Clear or frosted acrylic can be used for modern, minimalist invitations, menus and signage. Engraved wood is perfect for a luxe, organic vibe. Ribbons, silk, velvet or linen can be used for menus, place names, and unique invitations. I’ve even seen slate, marble and mirrored glass used for seating charts and welcome signs.
In most situations, I believe the best way to approach wedding traditions is to view them as optional rather than a necessity. You can pick and choose the ones that feel right and leave anything that doesn’t. At Benessamy, we’ll always encourage you to own your choices and be confident in your vision! Read Wedding Traditions - Ditch or Keep? for more on this.
However, wedding invitations serve a very important practical purpose. Skipping them could make life more difficult for both you and your guests. If your friends and family don’t have all the information they need, you’re also more likely to be inundated with questions in the run-up to your wedding.
I need the postcode for my satnav. Can you remind me when the ceremony starts? Just wondering where we should park? Are there any nice hotels nearby? Do you have the number for a taxi? Etc.
A physical invitation is usually the first touchpoint your guests encounter. It sets the tone and establishes the look and feel of your wedding, sparking excitement and anticipation. For sentimental souls like me, it also becomes a beautiful keepsake of an important event.
If you’re really not keen, digital options exist. Just make sure you include the following:
I believe Save the Dates are an optional extra, although I tend to recommend them for destination weddings as there’s usually more for your guests to organise in advance (flights, accommodation, time off work etc).
If overseas travel isn’t a consideration, you can decide how much notice to give your guests. In some situations, sending the full invitation early enough eliminates the need for Save the Dates.
Here’s what I want you to know about wedding invitations and on-the-day stationery:
At Benessamy, we specialise in guiding couples through the wedding planning process with clarity, calm, and attention to detail. Wherever you are in the world, and wherever you’d like to get married, we can help. Discover our full range of Wedding Planning Services and get in touch to discuss your options. You’ll also find more inspiration via the links below:
Photography Credits:
Val Mattinson is the founder and Head Planner at Benessamy, specialising in luxury weddings and beautifully curated celebrations across the UK and the Caribbean. With over 15 years of experience, Val is known for her calm, reassuring approach and meticulous attention to detail — supporting couples and hosts who want an unforgettable experience without the overwhelm.
If you’re beginning your planning journey and would like expert guidance, get in touch to arrange an introductory call. Val would love to help you create a celebration that feels thoughtful, joyful and effortlessly seamless.
edit_calendar Book an introductory call
call +44 (0)7787 422451
mail events@benessamy.co.uk
Planning a destination wedding in the UK is an exciting prospect, but there’s also much to consider.
When it comes to planning parties, there’s one thing I always suggest clients invest in – professional photos.