When you’re planning your wedding, it can be tough to keep everything on schedule. But when it comes to wedding invitations and stationery, timing is everything. If you order invitations too early, your details or venue info may change, requiring a reprint. On the other hand, if you order at the last minute, you may end up mailing them too late. Yikes! Many couples think that the 6 to 8 week timeline mailing invites is the same as ordering them, but it is important to see the distinction. If you wait to order them until it’s time to mail them, you’re going to be way too late.
When you order invitations, it takes time to customize, proof, print, pack, and mail them. Then you’ll need to assemble, address, and mail them out. Oof. You’re already busy as it is! But don’t worry, in this blog post, we’ll help you find the best time to purchase wedding stationery.
These tips will help with timing of wedding invitations as well as other stationery needs, like save the dates, signs, programs, menus, table numbers, and place cards. We’ll also answer a question from bride-to-be, Kim, who wants to know: “What wedding stationery do I need?”
Let’s discuss it!
What Wedding Stationery Do I Need?
“Hi Emmaline, I’m planning out my wedding budget and need to know, what wedding stationery do I need? I know I need save the dates and invitations, but what else is there to include? When is the best time to order wedding invitations and stationery? Thanks for your help.”
Great questions, Kim! Most couples need to order these wedding stationery items:
► Save the Dates
► Wedding Invitations (with RSVP card or QR code for digital RSVPs)
► Programs
► Menus
► Place Cards
► Escort Cards / Seating Chart
► Table Numbers
► Welcome Sign
► Favors Sign
► Guest Book Sign
► Drink Menu (Optional)
However, not all of these items are mandatory. Here’s a guide:
MUST HAVE: Save the dates, wedding invitations, table numbers, and escort cards (or seating chart).
OPTIONAL: Programs, menus, a welcome sign, and signage is all nice to have (but optional).
Now that you know what wedding stationery items you should have, let’s talk about when to buy them.
How to Choose the Timing for Purchasing Wedding Stationery
If you have your color palette and theme nailed down, you’re in luck: you can order wedding invitations and stationery as soon as possible so you have more than enough time. This is the ideal target range of 6 to 9 months before the wedding.
However, if you’re still not sure what invitation to select, you’re stuck on the guest list, or you’re struggling with budget, don’t worry. There is some wiggle room there. I highly recommend ordering no later than 2 to 3 months before the wedding.
How to Maximize Savings
If possible, order everything at once – and from the same retailer. When shopping for invitations, look for a stationer that offers all wedding day-of stationery, too, so you won’t need to order from multiple stores. This way, your stationery will be cohesive and coordinated for proper organization, as well. Minted is one resource that offers save the dates, invitations, programs, menus, signage, and more – all in one place. You can customize the items to match, so it really is a one-stop shop!
If you order everything at once, you may be able to cut shipping costs and you’ll save time from multiple orders later on.
When is the Best Time to Buy Wedding Stationery?
According to experts, the best time to order wedding invitations is: 6 to 9 months before the wedding or no later than 2 to 3 months before the wedding. So, what does that mean to you? Here’s an ordering calendar we created to help you decide when to order invitations based on your wedding date.
Now, in an ideal world, you could order everything the second you decide where you’re getting married. But that’s not always the case, as you may still be stuck on color palettes or guest list numbers, seating charts, and the ceremony’s order of events. Here are some suggestions on timing out other stationery pieces properly.
• Save the dates are typically sent out 6 to 9 months before the wedding
• Invitations are mailed 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding
• Programs require your full ceremony layout before you can order them, so plan your Order of Events first
• Seating charts, escort cards, or place cards require final seating arrangements in place
This is usually confirmed 2 weeks before the wedding to coincide with your RSVP due date, so you may need to wait until then to order.
• Table numbers and signage can be ordered anytime
The Benefits of Proper Timing When Buying Wedding Stationery
Timing matters! When you purchase wedding stationery at the recommended time, you’ll save time, money, and stress in the wedding planning process. You won’t be worried about the invites arriving on time, because you ordered early. You won’t be rushed when assembling them because you have plenty of time. And you’ll save money by bundling your stationery order together for efficiency – and shipping savings.
When You May Need to Buy Wedding Stationery Earlier or Later
In wedding planning, it’s important to consider timing, but also realize that flexibility is required. Perhaps you don’t have your theme just yet, or you are taking longer than you thought to pick out an invitation you like, or you need more time to plan out the budget. It’s OK! Just adjust the timing of ordering wedding stationery using the best practices outlined above.
If you can’t follow this timeline to the T, that’s fine, it’ll be OK. Just try to follow proper timing for purchasing wedding stationery when possible to eliminate stress. Remember, sometimes rush shipping is available; however, I don’t recommend relying on it during peak season. Make sure you order save the dates first, then order wedding invitations and stationery together when possible. Let me know if you have any questions on purchasing or timing in the comment box below.
