The Ultimate Guide to Creating Your Perfect Wedding Invitation
We love anything wedding invitation related around here! From traditional to modern, vintage to one-of-a-kind, your wedding invitations are one of the very first glimpses your guests will have of your big day. They set the tone, showcase your style as a couple, and build excitement for the celebration ahead.
But once you’ve chosen your dream invitation suite, the next step can feel a bit overwhelming: wording, formatting, etiquette, and timing. With invitations continually evolving, modern couples are balancing creative freedom with traditional etiquette. That’s where we come in! Whether you’re planning a wedding in Orange County, Los Angeles, or even a destination wedding, here’s our ultimate guide to creating the perfect wedding invitations.
Timing Is Everything
Your invitations should be thoughtful—not rushed. Here’s a simple timeline to follow:
4-5 months before: Begin designing and finalizing your invitation suite.
3 months before: Place your order to allow time for printing, assembly, and addressing.
Addressing: If you’re hiring a calligrapher, allow at least 2 weeks for envelope addressing. While printed labels aren’t considered proper etiquette, printed calligraphy (computer-generated) is now widely accepted.
Mailing invitations:
Local weddings: Send 8–12 weeks prior.
Destination weddings: Send 12–14 weeks prior.
This timeline ensures your guests have plenty of time to RSVP, while you can finalize headcounts 2–3 weeks before the big day.
Choose Your Words Wisely
The wording of your invitations can range from timelessly traditional to creatively modern, depending on your style and ceremony setting.
Host line: Traditionally, the bride’s parents host, but many modern couples include both sets of parents—or use “Together with their families.”
Request line:
For a church ceremony: “Request the honor of your presence…”
For a non-church ceremony: “Request the pleasure of your company…”
Names: The couple’s names are highlighted on separate lines, often in a standout font.
Date & time: Traditionally spelled out (e.g., “Saturday, the fifteenth of June, two thousand twenty-five”), though numerals are acceptable for a modern look.
Location: Spell out the state, and skip commas at the end of each line.
It’s All About the Details
For weddings with multiple events, guest accommodations, or special notes, include a Details card within your suite. This is also the place to share your wedding website.
A few reminders:
Never list your registry information directly on your invitation—only on your wedding website.
If your ceremony and reception are in different locations, consider a map insert or clear directions on your Details card.
Dress code notes (e.g., “Black Tie Optional” or “Cocktail Attire”) and guest guidelines (“Adult Only Celebration”) also belong here.
How Guests Respond
The RSVP card is one of the most important pieces in your suite. Make it easy on your guests (and yourself) by including:
A pre-addressed, stamped envelope.
RSVP deadline: At least 3 weeks before the wedding.
Meal selections (if applicable).
A line for dietary restrictions or allergies.
This not only ensures a smoother guest count but also saves you from last-minute stress with your caterer or venue.
Put Your Own Stamp on It
Once all the important details are in place, it’s time to add your personal flair. Custom envelopes, wax seals, unique paper textures, and even personalized postage stamps can elevate your invitations into true keepsakes.
At the end of the day, your wedding invitations should reflect you as a couple and offer guests an exciting sneak peek into your celebration. Whether you stick to timeless traditions or infuse your suite with modern creativity, the right invitations will set the perfect tone for your big day.
WE Design Invitations…
Please don’t forget to reach out to us if you’d like a quote for Invitations we can design for you! Check out our some of custom designs by clicking below.