When to Order Wedding Invitations (and Everything Else) So You’re Right on Time

Wedding planning can feel like juggling a thousand details—some big, some small, and all important. When it comes to ordering wedding invitations and other stationery, it’s easy to feel unsure about timing. Too early? Too late? Don’t worry—I’m here to help you get it just right. With this guide, you’ll know exactly when to place your order, so you can cross “invitations” off your list with plenty of time to spare. Bonus: scroll to the end of the post for a free checklist to stay on top of your wedding stationery timeline!

 

Photo  © Kristin Weaver Photography

How Early Is Too Early? The Wedding Invitation Timeline Essentials

While it can be tempting to tackle stationery as soon as you’re engaged, ordering too early isn’t always necessary (unless you’re ready to go fully custom, which takes extra time). For most couples, six to nine months before the wedding is the sweet spot to start planning your invitations. (Trying to count months backward? Here’s a quick reference for you.)

 

If you plan to mail your invites two months before your wedding, ordering them six months in advance leaves us with four months for design and production. If you’re not utilizing Banter & Charm’s envelope printing services (or you’re sending the envelopes to a calligrapher), make sure to allow extra time to address the envelopes. That may sound like a long time, but keep in mind that it can take up to six weeks for just the printing portion. Are you ordering a custom design? Planning a destination wedding? You’ll want to start your order about a month earlier.

Occasionally we can hurry the process along, but it’s best to take your time. You don’t want to be rushed when you’re reviewing proofs. I know from experience that the quicker you try to do something, the more likely you are to overlook an important detail, miss a typo, or even approve the wrong quantity!

Now that you know when to order, how about when to mail?

•When to Send: Plan to send invitations about 8-10 weeks before the wedding. For destination weddings or holiday weekends, consider mailing invitations 10-12 weeks in advance.

•Pro Tip: If you’re worried about late RSVPs (and honestly, who isn’t?), set your RSVP date at least three to four weeks before the wedding. This gives you time to follow up with any stragglers and finalize your headcount for catering and seating.

What about all your other wedding stationery? Here’s a handy breakdown to guide you through ordering each key piece of wedding stationery—save-the-dates, invitations, and day-of items.

Save the Dates: 8-12 Months Before the Wedding

•When to Order: Ideally, order save the dates about 8-12 months before your wedding, especially if you’re hosting a destination wedding or marrying during peak season. This gives guests time to clear their schedules, book flights, and make accommodations.

•When to Send: Aim to mail save the dates around 6-8 months before the wedding. For destination weddings, send them as early as 9-12 months in advance.

•Pro Tip: Only send save the dates to people you’re 100% sure will be on the guest list! Once it’s mailed, there’s no going back.

Day-of Stationery: Order 2-3 Months Before the Wedding

Often overlooked until the last minute, but still just as essential as your other wedding stationery, day of paper includes the widest variety of options. From ceremony programs that guide guests through the day’s events to menus, place cards, and signage that add style and organization to your reception, these pieces play an important role in creating a seamless, memorable experience for your guests.

Even if you don’t have all your RSVPs back or the menu isn’t confirmed, go ahead and order. We can get started on the overall design and add in your details and guest list when they’re confirmed.

•Pro Tip: Keep a checklist of everything you want for the big day! If you’re adding custom designs or unique touches, order earlier to allow for printing or shipping delays.

Thank You Cards: Order with Your Invitations or Right After the Wedding

•When to Order: For ultimate peace of mind, order thank you cards along with your invitations or day-of stationery. This way, you’ll have them ready to go as soon as gifts start arriving. If you wait until after the wedding, aim to order within a month so you can send them promptly.

•When to Send: Send thank you cards within 2-3 weeks for pre-wedding gifts and within 2-3 months after the honeymoon for wedding-day gifts.

•Pro Tip: Keep a record of who gave what, so you can personalize your messages. Guests will appreciate the extra thought!

Planning your wedding stationery doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you follow these timelines, you can order everything at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed or stressed. And if you have questions or need help deciding what’s right for you, I’m just a message away!

Stationery is one of the few wedding elements you can physically keep as a memento. By planning ahead, you ensure that each piece—from the save the dates to the thank you cards—is crafted with care and reflects your love story. So take a deep breath, mark your calendar, and let’s get started on creating beautiful, timeless stationery you’ll love as much as your wedding day.

Who doesn’t love a good checklist?

Looking for a way to keep on top of what stationery you need and when to order it? Sign up below to download my Wedding Stationery Checklist!