Wedding Invitation Components | What goes in a wedding stationery suite?
The bride’s guide to wedding paper
Your wedding invitation suite is the first glimpse your guests will have of your big day, and it does more than just share the date. But beyond the main invitation, there are several other pieces that can help provide important details, keep things organized, and add a thoughtful touch to your stationery. From RSVP cards to details inserts and envelope embellishments, each element plays a role in making sure your guests know exactly what to expect so they feel informed and excited for your big day.
Not sure what to include? I’ve got you! This guide breaks down the different pieces that go into a wedding stationery suite so you can feel confident knowing you’ve got everything covered.
And if you want to make sure nothing slips through the cracks? Download my free Wedding Stationery Checklist at the bottom of this post.
This post is part of the Wedding Stationery Guide: a series of helpful articles covering everything you need to know about wedding paper. From wording tips and etiquette advice to addressing know-how and assembly tips, it’s all here to make the invitation process feel a whole lot easier.
The Essential Pieces of a Wedding Stationery Suite
The following pieces are the most common items you’ll find in a wedding invitation suite. You may need all these pieces (and more), or just a few of them – it depends on your wedding! If you’re having a casual wedding in your home town, chances are you can skip the accommodations and directions cards. But if you’re planning an elaborate destination wedding you may want to provide your guests with lots of information (or maybe just direct them to your wedding website).
1. INVITATION
The invitation is the main component of your stationery suite. It contains the who, what, where, and when of the wedding. It is generally the largest piece.
5˝x 7˝ is standard, or upgrade to 5.5˝x 8.5˝
2. REPLY CARD
Whether you opt for the traditional mail-in RSVP or provide an online option, this is how guests let you know if they’re attending. If you’re doing a mail-in card, your suite will include a self-addressed reply envelope.
3½˝x 4⅞˝is standard
3. ENVELOPES
The return address is generally printed on the back flap of the mailing envelope. Use the host’s address; names are optional.
The guest’s mailing address is handwritten or printed on the front of the mailing envelope.
RSVP envelopes are printed with your address on the front.
3½˝x 4⅞˝ or 4¼˝x 5½˝
4. INSERT CARDS
These are the supporting players of your suite. They help share more information with guests in a neat, organized way. Provide details about the reception, your wedding website, or a schedule for the day. You can combine these into a larger “multi-purpose” insert or use separate cards for each.
2˝x 3½˝, 3½˝x 4⅞˝, 4¼˝x 5½˝, and 4½˝x 6¼˝
5. INSERTS FOR OTHER EVENTS
Use an insert to share information about other weekend events, like a welcome party or farewell brunch.
6. INNER ENVELOPE
An inner envelope is an optional second envelope goes inside the mailing envelope and lists the names of everyone invited. Also referred to as a “double envelope set”
Finishing Touches to Elevate Your Stationery Suite
Embellishments like envelope liners, silk ribbons, belly bands, vellum wraps, and wax seals add an extra layer of personalization and elegance to your wedding invitation suite. All these items are optional – add as many or as few as you like.
1. Belly Band
A thin piece of paper that’s folded around the invitation. It’s available plain or printed in your choice of paper color or translucent vellum. Pairs perfectly with a wax seal.
2. Envelope Liner
Placed on the inside of the envelope, this paper adds a pop of color and weight to the envelope.
3. VELLUM FOLDERS
Vellum adds a delicate, airy feel to your invitations and allows for creative layering, making your suite feel even more luxurious. You can leave the vellum blank or add custom printing like your monogram or a decorative element.
Beyond the Invitations: Additional Wedding Paper
Now that we’ve covered the pieces that are mailed with your invitation, there are a few other things you might need to round out your wedding stationery.
Save the date cards
Save the dates are typically mailed 6–9 months before the wedding (or earlier for destination weddings).
While it’s not part of your invitation suite, it is your wedding stationery debut. You don’t need every detail nailed down: if you know the date and location, that’s enough to help guests block off the weekend.
Wedding Day Stationery
Once your invitations are in the mail, it’s time to start thinking about your wedding day paper. These are the pieces that tie everything together on the day, keeping guests informed and elevating the overall look of your ceremony and reception.
Here are a few day-of items to consider:
- Ceremony Programs Share the order of events, wedding party names, or a note of thanks
- Escort Cards or Seating Charts Help guests find their seats with style
- Place Cards Especially helpful if you’re offering meal choices
- Menus A pretty (and practical) touch for the reception table
- Signage Welcome signs, bar menus, favors tags, and more
- Thank You Notes Often overlooked, but so nice to have ready post-wedding
Your day-of stationery can match your invitation suite for a cohesive look, or take on its own style if you’re switching up the vibe between ceremony and reception. See more wedding day stationery
Your wedding stationery suites are more than just an invitation: it’s a beautifully curated collection of details that sets the stage for your big day. From the main invitation to RSVP cards, details inserts, and envelope embellishments, each piece plays a role in making sure your guests feel informed, excited, and ready to celebrate with you.
Whether you choose a classic, minimalist approach or a fully customized suite with luxurious finishes, the key is to create something that reflects your wedding style and makes a lasting impression. If you’re ready to craft an invitation suite that feels as special as the day it represents, I’d love to help bring your vision to life! Order a sample pack and schedule a complimentary consultation to get started.
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