Feeling lost regarding stationery? Here’s a complete list.
The Ultimate Wedding Stationery Checklist: Because Every Detail Matters
Can I be honest? Planning a wedding is like being thrown into the deep end of the pool. Have you ever planned an event for over 50 people before? One moment you’re curating the perfect color palette, and the next, you find yourself overwhelmed by the myriad of decisions that need to be made. Let’s clear up one of the wedding mysteries— what stationery do you really need?
From the first "Save the Date" to your final "Thank You" card, wedding stationery communicates details to your guests and sets the tone of your celebration. If you have ever wondered, "Do I really need all of these stationery pieces?"—the answer is, in most cases, is it depends. To ensure nothing is overlooked, we have curated a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the essentials of wedding stationery so you know exactly what you need for your event.
Before the Big Day: Setting the Stage
1. Save the Dates
The first glimpse into your wedding, Save the Dates inform your guests of your special day well in advance. Whether you opt for a classic card, a photo magnet, or a minimalist design, ensure it includes key details: your names, the wedding date, location (or a note that it will be announced later), and a gentle reminder for guests to mark their calendars. These are typically sent 6–12 months in advance, giving guests ample time to make arrangements. If you’re getting married in less than 6 months, scrap these.
2. Wedding Invitations
The wedding invitation suite serves as the primary source of information for your guests. Depending on formality and budget, it may include:
The Wedding Card – Featuring the essential details of your celebration.
A Couple’s Photo – Aunt Judy’s husband wants to know what your fiance looks like.
RSVP & Meal Card – Allowing guests to confirm attendance and select their meal preference.
Directions Card – Assisting those who may need additional guidance to the venue.
Wedding invitations are sent approximately 6–8 weeks before the event. If you forgo Save the Dates, consider sending invitations up to 3 months in advance to ensure guests have sufficient time to prepare. You can choose to send only the wedding card, with maybe a photo on the back. If you opt for this, make sure you have all the other information cards listed clearly on a wedding website. Make sure to list the website on your invite!
3. Bridal Shower Invitations
A pre-wedding celebration, the bridal shower is an occasion for loved ones to honor the bride. Invitations should convey the details while setting your desired tone for the event.
4. Bachelor/Bachelorette Party Invitations
Whether you are planning an extravagant weekend getaway or an intimate gathering, a formal invitation adds a special touch to the occasion. If you’re on a budget, just send a group text.
5. Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Reserved for the wedding party and close family, rehearsal dinner invitations should be sent at least one week before the wedding. Keep them simple yet informative, ensuring guests know where and when to gather for this special pre-wedding celebration. These can also be digital invitations, but ensure that the same information is sent out with plenty of notice.
Wedding Day Essentials: Ensuring a Seamless Experience
6. Welcome Sign
A beautifully designed welcome sign immediately sets the tone for your event, offering guests a warm greeting upon arrival. It can also include helpful information, such as where to go for the ceremony.
7. Wedding Programs
Providing guests with an outline of the ceremony, programs introduce the wedding party and offer insights into the order of events. A thoughtful touch includes personal anecdotes or fun facts about the couple. Programs are usually the only reception stationery that will be printed if a tight budget is in play, many like the information and to remember them as keepsakes.
8. Reserved Seating Signs
For immediate family members and honored guests, designated seating signs ensure comfort and organization. These can be as elegant as placards, or as simple as a printed 8x11 that says “Reserved”.
9. Seating Chart or Escort Cards
To prevent confusion and streamline guest seating, a seating chart or escort cards guide attendees to their assigned tables. If you don’t want to do assigned seating, or it’s a casual affair then toss these.
10. Place Cards
An elegant addition to any reception, place cards ensure guests find their designated seats with ease. See above note.
11. Table Numbers
A necessity for organized seating, table numbers allow guests to locate their places effortlessly. Again, if you aren’t doing assigned seating, these are unnecessary.
12. Menu Cards
A beautifully printed menu lets guests know what culinary delights await them while providing necessary information for those with dietary restrictions. For potlucks or buffet tables, simple item descriptions at each dish is sufficient.
13. Bar Menu
A chic bar menu informs guests of available beverage selections, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable bar service experience. This is obviously void if you are not having a bar or drink service.
14. Guest Book
A treasured keepsake, the guest book provides loved ones the opportunity to leave heartfelt messages and well-wishes. While this is a tradition that is going out of style, it is still a sweet touch to look back on. Guest books don’t have to be boring, there are many creative ways to have a fun guest book.
The Final Touches: Expressing Gratitude
15. Favor Labels
A thoughtful “thank you” tag attached to wedding favors adds a personal touch, making your tokens of appreciation even more memorable.
16. Thank You Cards
Perhaps the most important stationery of all, thank you cards allow you to express heartfelt gratitude to your guests for their presence, gifts, and support. These should be sent within three months of the wedding.
Why Wedding Stationery Matters
While some items on this list may be optional depending on your personal style and wedding format, having a well-thought-out stationery plan ensures a seamless and polished event. More than just paper, these pieces help organize your day, convey essential information, and provide cherished keepsakes for you and your guests.
To make your planning process even smoother, we have created a FREE wedding stationery checklist, ensuring you never miss a detail. This printable PDF can be saved on your phone or kept in your wedding binder for quick reference.
As an added bonus, your freebie also includes: 💍 Two wedding timeline options—one for meticulous planners, another for last-minute preparations.
📋 A complete vendor checklist—ensuring every crucial booking is covered.
💰 A 50% off code for our Complete Wedding Guide, packed with expert insights to simplify your planning experience.
Eliminate second-guessing and stress—download your free guide now and plan with confidence! ⬇️