In an era of evites and facebook events, your wedding invitations might be the first formal, printed stationery you’ve sent. So when it comes time to assemble your wedding invitations, it’s easy to feel lost! Assembling your invitations can be as simple as stacking the pieces and stuffing the envelope or involve a glue gun and bow-tying skills. I do offer full or partial assembly services if any of this is more than you want to handle!
Make your mailbox debut flawless and avoid common wedding etiquette mistakes with these wedding invitation assembly tips!
Some of this advice may seem old-fashioned, but if you’re a bride who embraces traditions, be sure to follow these tips. When in doubt, I refer to Emily Post and Crane’s Blue Book for all things etiquette. That being said, it’s your wedding so make sure to do what makes sense for you!
gather your supplies
Double-check that you have all the pieces of your invitation order, addressed envelopes, postage, envelope moistener, and any adhesives or supplies you need to assemble the invitation suite.
use clean hands
Since the smallest amount of dirt or oil from your hands can show up on paper, make sure to wash and dry your hands before you begin. Nail polish may rub off on cotton paper, so be mindful of your manicure when handling your stationery.
postage
The amount of postage required for your invitation suite will vary based on the weight. Embellishments like wax seals, ribbon, and thick paper can also affect your postage rate – if they make your envelopes bumpy or too stiff, there is a “non-machinable” charge.
Take one assembled invitation (including the RSVP card and any enclosures or embellishments) to your local post office so they can weigh it and let you know the exact postage you need.
Make sure to buy stamps for the RSVP card envelopes as well. Standard 1st class postage is normally used for your RSVP envelopes.
stacking the enclosures
These are instructions for the traditional way to stack your enclosures, but you may want to do things differently depending on the pieces in your invitation suite and your preferences.
Stuffing the envelope
sealing the envelope
Inner envelopes should be left unsealed and often don’t even have adhesive on the flap.
Use envelope moistener to activate the glue on the mailing envelope flap. You can use a damp sponge or saliva, but whatever you use, don’t over-wet the adhesive- use just enough to activate the glue.
Press down firmly to seal or place the envelope under a heavy book. If your envelopes don’t want to stay closed, try using double-sided tape or a glue stick.
And now your invitations are assembled, stuffed, sealed, and ready to mail! Still have questions? Get in touch – I’m happy to share my advice!
