Wedding Invitations 101: Everything You Need to Know Before You Send That First Stamp

Photo By: East End Photo Film

Your wedding invitation is so much more than just paper in the mail — it’s the first peek your guests get into your big day. It sets the tone, builds anticipation, and gives everyone the all-important info they need. And while it may seem like a small detail in the grand scheme of planning… trust us, it’s one you want to get just right.

Whether you're dreaming of custom letterpress or a sleek digital suite, here's everything you need to know about wedding invitations — from style to etiquette to when to send them.

1. Start with Your Style

   Your invites are the first impression of your wedding vibe — think of them like a sneak preview. Are you planning something classic and elegant? Coastal and breezy? Modern and minimal? Let your invitation reflect the overall look and feel of your day.

   Elements to consider:

   • Color palette (coordinate with your wedding tones)

   • Typography (script fonts for romantic, serif fonts for timeless)

   • Paper quality (matte, textured, vellum, cotton — it all matters!)

   • Print method (digital, foil, letterpress, engraving)

   Working with a stationer? Amazing — they'll help bring your vision to life. Going semi-custom or DIY? Choose a cohesive template that matches your aesthetic.

Photo by: Annie Laura Photos

2. What Goes in the Envelope?

   A traditional wedding invitation suite includes:

   • Main invitation (with date, time, and location)

   • Details card (accommodations, dress code, transportation)

   • RSVP card + envelope (or RSVP website info)

   • Outer envelope (and sometimes an inner one)

   Modern twist: Many couples are going green or digital with online RSVPs and QR codes — totally acceptable (and convenient!).

3. When to Send Them

   Save the Dates: 7–9 months before the wedding (earlier if it’s destination)

   Invitations:

   
   

    8–12 weeks before the wedding

   
   

    RSVP deadline: 3–4 weeks before

4. How Many to Order?

   You don’t need one invite per guest — you need one per household/couple. Always order 10–15 extras for last-minute guests, keepsakes, flat lays, and inevitable addressing mistakes.

   Pro tip: If you're doing calligraphy or hand-addressing, order your envelopes early and separately so your stationer has plenty of time.

Photo by: Jennifer Mary Photography

5. Addressing & Etiquette

   • Use full names, no nicknames

   • Spell out “Street,” “Avenue,” “Apartment,” etc.

   • “Mr. & Mrs.” for married couples, “Ms.” for single women

   • Include titles if applicable (Dr., Judge, etc.)

6. Add Some Personality

   Your invitations can be classic and still have you written all over them. Some ways to add your signature style:

   • Custom crest or monogram

   • Venue illustration or watercolor

   • Wax seals or vellum wraps

   • Personalized stamps

   • Envelope liners that match your wedding palette or theme

   And don’t forget: your day-of paper goods (like programs, menus, signage) can match your invitation suite for a cohesive and elevated look.

7. Budgeting for Invitations

   As a rule of thumb, expect to spend around 2% of your total wedding budget on invitations and stationery — more for custom designs with specialty printing or calligraphy.

   Ask us — we’re happy to recommend talented stationers who fit your budget and your vision.

Photo by: Justin and Lauren

Final Thoughts: The Invite Is Just the Beginning

At Goldbug Events, we believe every wedding detail should tell your story — and your invitations are the prologue. Whether you go timeless and formal or modern and playful, the most important thing is that your guests feel invited into something meaningful.

So pick your paper, polish your guest list, and let’s send some love out into the world.