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From Save-the-Dates to Thank You Cards: Complete Wedding Stationery Packages Explained

12/8/2025

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Choosing your wedding stationery is one of the first design decisions you’ll make as a couple—and one of the most meaningful. Each piece tells part of your story, guiding guests from the moment they open your save-the-date to the final thank-you card after the celebration has ended.
Luxury wedding stationery is more than paper. It’s cohesive, intentional, and designed to elevate your wedding experience from beginning to end. If you’re beginning to plan your wedding stationery package, this guide will help you understand exactly what you need for a seamless and beautifully coordinated suite.

Why Invest in a Complete Wedding Stationery Package?
A full stationery suite ensures:
  • Every piece matches in tone, aesthetic, and style
  • Your guests receive clear, timely information
  • Your stationery feels elevated, polished, and cohesive
  • You don’t have to scramble last-minute for missing pieces
At Blue Bonsai Printing, we design stationery that carries your visual story through every touchpoint—from first impression to final gratitude.

THE FULL WEDDING STATIONERY TIMELINE & WHAT’S INCLUDED

1. Save-the-Dates (Sent 9–12 Months Before the Wedding)

Save-the-dates are the first official announcement your guests receive. They set the tone for your wedding and give guests time to plan, especially for destination or holiday celebrations.
Save-the-dates may include:
  • Engagement photo or monogram
  • Wedding date
  • City + state (or destination)
  • Wedding website

2. Formal Wedding Invitation Suite (Sent 6–10 Weeks Before)
This is the heart of your wedding stationery package and the part couples get most excited about.
A luxury invitation suite typically includes:
✔ The Invitation Card
The main piece featuring your ceremony details, design elements, and the aesthetic foundation of your suite.
✔ Details Card
Provides accommodation info, dress code, transportation, and timeline notes.
✔ RSVP Card + Envelope
For traditional mailed RSVPs, often including entrée selections for plated dinners.
✔ Outer & Inner Envelopes
Optional for modern weddings, classic for formal events.
✔ Envelope Addressing
Printed addressing for a cohesive, high-end look using the same fonts as the invitation.
✔ Add-On Luxury Elements 
  • Wax seals
  • Ribbon wraps
  • Vellum overlays
  • Custom monograms
  • Handmade or deckled-edge paper
  • Envelope liners
These tactile details elevate the entire suite.

3. Day-Of Wedding Stationery (The Hidden Must-Haves)
Many couples forget these essential pieces until the last minute. A complete stationery package ensures they’re perfectly matched to your invitation aesthetic.
Day-of stationery often includes:
  • Ceremony programs
  • Welcome signs
  • Seating charts
  • Place cards or escort cards
  • Table numbers
  • Menus
  • Bar signage
  • Favor tags
  • Reserved seating signage
Day-of pieces extend your design into the guest experience, tying everything together beautifully.

4. Post-Wedding Thank You Cards
This final piece completes your stationery journey. Personalized thank-you cards leave a lasting impression and give you a polished, gracious way to close out your celebration.
Thank you cards may feature:
  • A wedding photo
  • Initials or monogram
  • Coordinating design elements
  • Blank or pre-written message inside

What’s Included in a Blue Bonsai Printing Full Stationery Package
Every wedding’s needs are different, but luxury stationery clients typically choose packages that include:
Before the Wedding
✔ Save-the-Dates
✔ Envelope Addressing
✔ Matching Return Addressing
Invitation Suite
✔ Custom-designed wedding invitation
✔ RSVP card + envelope
✔ Details card
✔ High-quality envelopes with liners
✔ Envelope Addressing
Day-Of Paper Goods
✔ Menus
✔ Programs
✔ Seating chart
✔ Place/escort cards
✔ Signage
✔ Table numbers
After the Wedding
✔ Coordinated thank-you cards
✔ Optional photo thank-you prints

Everything is intentionally designed to feel like one cohesive visual story.

How to Choose the Right Wedding Stationery Package
When selecting your package, consider:
Your guest count
More guests = more pieces, especially for RSVP cards and day-of stationery.
Your wedding’s formality
Luxury weddings often require more traditional elements.
Your aesthetic vision
Luxury details like silk ribbon, monograms, and wax seals elevate the entire experience.
Your timeline
Custom stationery requires lead time—ordering early ensures a stress-free process.

Final Thoughts
A full wedding stationery package keeps your entire celebration cohesive, elevated, and beautifully designed from start to finish. Your guests will appreciate the clarity, intention, and luxury that only a professionally crafted stationery suite can offer.
At Blue Bonsai Printing, we walk with you from save-the-date to thank-you card, ensuring every detail reflects your love story with elegance and artistry.

✨ Ready to design a complete, custom wedding stationery package?
Inquire today to begin your luxury stationery experience.

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The Complete Guide to Wedding Invitation Wording Etiquette

11/25/2025

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Everything You Need to Know About Formal, Modern, and Traditional Wedding Invitation Wording

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When it comes to luxury wedding invitations, the design may be the first thing guests notice—but the wording is what truly sets the tone for your celebration. Whether you're hosting a black-tie affair, a modern coastal ceremony, or an intimate garden wedding, the language you choose communicates formality, hospitality, and the heart behind your celebration.
This complete guide to wedding invitation wording etiquette will help you confidently craft wording that’s elegant, clear, and true to your wedding style.

Why Wedding Invitation Wording Matters
Your wedding invitation does more than announce a date—it reflects the energy and tone of your event. Thoughtful wording ensures:
  • Guests understand who is hosting
  • The formality of your event is immediately clear
  • All essential details are communicated effortlessly
  • Your stationery feels cohesive, polished, and intentional
As experts in luxury wedding stationery, we guide couples through this process every day. Here’s everything you need to know.

1. Start With the Host Line
Traditionally, the wedding invitation is issued by the hosts—often the bride’s parents or both families.
Traditional hosting example:“Mr. and Mrs. Michael Anderson
request the honor of your presence…”

Modern/co-hosting example:“Together with their families
Ella and James
joyfully invite you to their wedding celebration…”

Couple hosting their own wedding:“Ella Anderson and James Carter
invite you to celebrate their marriage…”


2. Include a Clear Request Line

The request line is where you formally invite guests.
Formal wording (church or traditional ceremony):“Request the honor of your presence”
Semi-formal or non-religious ceremony:“Request the pleasure of your company”
Modern, warm wording:“Would love for you to join them”
Your choice here directly affects how formal the entire suite will feel.

3. Spell Out Names in Full
For luxury and formality, avoid abbreviations.
  • Use full names (middle names optional)
  • Avoid initials
  • List the bride’s name first in traditional heterosexual wedding etiquette
Example:“Ella Grace Anderson
and
James Alexander Carter”

If you prefer modern or casual, you can keep names simplified but still elegant.

4. Provide Ceremony Details Clearly
Essential elements include:
  • Date
  • Time
  • Location (venue + city/state)
  • Reception details
Formal example (spelled out):Saturday, the twenty-fourth of May
Two thousand twenty-six
at four o’clock in the afternoon
The Orchard Estate
Napa Valley, California

Modern example:May 24, 2026
4:00 PM
The Orchard Estate · Napa Valley

Spelling out numbers is still the gold standard for high-end wedding invitations.

5. Reception Line Wording
If your reception is at the same venue:
  • “Reception to follow”
If it’s elsewhere:
  • “Dinner and dancing to follow at The Reserve”
  • “Reception immediately following ceremony”
Overflowing with elegance doesn’t mean it must be overly formal—clarity is key.

6. Addressing Sensitive Scenarios
Divorced or remarried parents 
You may list parents separately on different lines.
Example:
“Together with their parents
Maria Thompson
daughter of
Mr. Robert Thompson
and
Ms. Elaine Carter
and
Andrew Miller…”


Deceased parents
Traditionally you do not list deceased parents as hosts but can be addressed as:
Example:
“Together with their parents
Maria Thompson
daughter of
the late Mr. Robert Thompson
and
Mrs. Elaine Thompson”


No parents included

Use couple-centric wording:
“With joyful hearts
Emma and Ryan invite you…”


7. Wording for Destination Weddings
Destination wedding invitations often include additional clarity:

  • Travel notes
  • Weekend itinerary
  • Suggested attire
  • Welcome party mention
Example:
“Please join us for a weekend of celebration in Santorini, Greece…”
This is often paired with an additional details card for international guests.

8. Final Touch: RSVP Etiquette
Traditional RSVP wording:
  • “Kindly reply by the twenty-first of April”
Modern RSVP wording:
  • “Please RSVP by April 21”
If hosting a formal seated dinner, include:
  • Entrée selections
  • Number attending
  • Dietary restrictions

Wedding Invitation Wording Template (Copy & Use)
Here is a timeless, luxury-friendly template:
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Anderson
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Ella Grace
to
James Alexander Carter
Saturday, the twenty-fourth of May
Two thousand twenty-six
at four o’clock in the afternoon
The Orchard Estate
Napa Valley, California
Reception to follow

Final Thoughts
Wording your wedding invitations is an art—one that blends tradition, clarity, and personal meaning. The right wording elevates your entire stationery suite and sets the tone for an unforgettable experience.

If you want wedding invitation wording crafted with precision, elegance, and intention, Blue Bonsai Printing offers fully custom stationery design with expert guidance every step of the way.

✨ Ready to design your perfect wedding invitation suite?
Inquire today to begin your custom stationery experience.

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How to Use USPS Dungeons & Dragons Stamps for Your Wedding Invitations

10/2/2025

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When couples think about their wedding invitations, they often focus on the design, printing, and wording—but one detail that shouldn’t be overlooked is the postage stamp. The stamp is the very first thing your guests see when your invitation suite arrives in the mail, and it sets the tone for what’s inside. With the release of the new USPS Dungeons & Dragons stamps, couples now have a creative and meaningful way to make their wedding stationery feel even more personal.

Why Your Wedding Invitation Stamps Matter
Every element of your wedding stationery tells a piece of your love story. Choosing a stamp that reflects your personality shows guests that you’ve thought of every detail. From save the dates to wedding invitations and day-of items, even your envelopes can showcase your unique style. Using themed or collectible stamps is also a growing wedding trend for couples who want their invitations to feel timeless, thoughtful, and fun.

The Magic of Dungeons & Dragons Stamps
If you and your partner are longtime fans of Dungeons & Dragons, or fantasy, these stamps are more than just postage—they’re a nod to your shared adventures and storytelling. Featuring bold artwork and iconic fantasy imagery, the stamps immediately capture attention and hint at the celebration to come.

Here are some creative ways to use them for your wedding stationery suite:
A Subtle Personal Touch
Even if your wedding aesthetic is elegant and classic, Dungeons & Dragons stamps can be a playful nod to your personality. Guests who know you’ll smile at the detail, while others simply enjoy the striking artwork.

Perfect for Fantasy-Themed Weddings
If your wedding includes whimsical or magical elements—think enchanted forest florals, castle-inspired venues, or candlelit feasts—these stamps tie the theme together beautifully. They become part of the storytelling from the moment the invitation arrives.

Create a Collectible Keepsake
Many guests save wedding invitations as keepsakes. Adding collectible stamps makes the envelope just as meaningful as the invitation inside. You might even order extra sheets of stamps to frame or tuck into your wedding album.

Designing Invitations to Match Your Stamps
If you’d like to use USPS’s Dungeons & Dragons stamps, we can design an invitation suite that complements them—whether that means rich jewel tones, metallic foiling, romantic calligraphy, or subtle nods to fantasy.

Your stationery should feel cohesive, and pairing your postage with your design ensures every detail tells the same story.

Your wedding invitations are your guests’ very first glimpse into your celebration. Choosing the right stamp—whether classic, romantic, or playful—turns even the envelope into a meaningful part of your wedding stationery. With the new USPS Dungeons & Dragons stamps, couples can infuse their invitations with magic, creativity, and personality.

At Blue Bonsai Printing, we love helping couples design wedding stationery that feels timeless, personal, and unforgettable. If you’re ready to start designing your invitation suite (with or without themed postage!), we’d be honored to bring your vision to life.

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10 Unique Wedding Invitation Trends

9/25/2025

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Your wedding invitation is more than just a piece of paper—it’s the first glimpse your guests will have of your big day. As we look ahead in wedding planning, couples are seeking ways to make their invitations as unforgettable as their celebrations. At Blue Bonsai Printing, we’re passionate about helping you set the tone for your wedding with designs that inspire, excite, and truly reflect your story. Discover the top 10 wedding invitation trends that will elevate your stationery and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Sustainable Materials Take Center Stage
Eco-conscious couples are making sustainability a priority in their wedding planning. Invitations crafted from recycled paper, seed paper, and even upcycled fabrics are gaining popularity. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also add a unique texture and story to each invitation. At Blue Bonsai Printing, we offer a curated selection of earth-friendly papers and inks that don’t compromise on style or quality—so you can celebrate love and the planet.

Bold Typography and Minimalist Layouts  
Simplicity meets sophistication with bold, modern typography paired with clean, minimalist layouts. Couples are moving away from ornate flourishes and embracing striking fonts that convey personality. Think oversized names, creative monograms, and playful use of negative space. This trend is perfect for those who want their invitation to make a statement, while keeping the overall design fresh and uncluttered.  The use of textured card stock can also allow for an additional element but still fitting within the theme.

Interactive Elements and Layered Designs  
Why settle for a flat card when you can create an experience? Layered invitations—featuring vellum overlays, pocket folds, or pop-up elements—invite guests to interact with your stationery. These tactile designs add dimension and intrigue, encouraging guests to explore every detail. Layered designs can also include cut outs or shapes to make for a truly unique invitation suite.

Hand-Drawn Illustrations and Bespoke Artwork  
Personalization is key in weddings, and nothing says “unique” like custom artwork. Couples are commissioning hand-drawn illustrations of their venue, pets, or even their love story. Watercolor florals, city skylines, and whimsical sketches bring a heartfelt, artistic touch to invitations. Our team collaborates with talented artists to turn your vision into a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Unexpected Color Palettes  
Traditional white and ivory are taking a backseat to bold, unconventional color schemes. Think rich terracottas, moody blues, olive greens, and metallic accents. These unexpected hues make invitations pop and set the mood for your celebration. Our color experts can help you select shades that reflect your wedding style and stand out from the crowd.  Colorful cardstock and envelopes make an impression from the moment the invitation is received by your guests.

Luxe Finishes—Foil, Embossing, and Letterpress  
For couples who crave a touch of luxury, elevated finishes are a must. Foil stamping, embossing, and letterpress printing add texture and shine, transforming simple invitations into elegant statements. Whether you prefer gold foil accents or deeply pressed letterforms, these antique methods of printing bring a modern and classic touch to your wedding stationery.

Translucent Vellum and Acrylic Invitations
Transparency is trending—literally. Vellum overlays and acrylic invitations create a sleek, modern look that’s both ethereal and eye-catching. These materials can be layered with printed cards, tied with ribbon, or paired with wax seals for a multidimensional effect. There are many options when it comes to vellum and acrylic and additional mailing guidelines that only the pros know and we guide you through the options to create a design that feels both fresh and timeless.

Statement Envelopes and Custom Liners
The invitation experience begins the moment your guests open the envelope. Envelopes are getting the star treatment with bold colors, patterned liners, and personalized wax seals. Custom calligraphy and unique shapes (think square or arch-shaped envelopes) add an extra dose of excitement. We always encourage the use of a colored envelope because of the uniqueness and WOW factor.  White addressing on dark colored envelopes is a specialty of ours.

Incorporating QR Codes and Digital Touches  
Tech-savvy couples are embracing QR codes and digital elements to streamline the RSVP process and share additional details. A discreet QR code can lead guests to your wedding website, digital RSVP form, or even a personalized video message. Integrate these modern touches, blending convenience with style.  Keep in mind that older guests can be frustrated by the technology.  Consider a traditional RSVP or information card for these guests.

Themed Suites and Cohesive Branding  
Your invitation suite is a chance to introduce your wedding theme and set expectations. Couples are opting for cohesive branding—carrying motifs, colors, and fonts from the invitation through to day-of stationery like menus, programs, and signage. This approach creates a unified, polished look that guests will remember long after the last dance.

Your wedding invitation is the opening chapter of your celebration. By embracing these unique trends you can create stationery that not only informs but also inspires and excites. At Blue Bonsai Printing, we’re dedicated to bringing your vision to life with quality, creativity, and care. Let us help you make your first impression truly unforgettable.
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Celebrate Love with Custom Two Grooms Pick a Seat Signage

3/8/2025

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In the world of wedding decor, every detail matters, especially when it comes to creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for all guests. For same-sex male couples, a "Two Grooms Pick a Seat" sign is not just a piece of decor—it's a statement of love and acceptance. This unique signage not only guides your ceremony guests but also adds a personalized touch to your special day. In this blog post, we’ll explore the significance of gay wedding seating signs, how to design custom signage, and why this display is a must-have for your ceremony.

The Importance of Inclusive Wedding Signage

​In recent years, weddings have become more than just a ceremony; they are a celebration of love, equality, and individuality. For LGBTQ couples, particularly same-sex men, the wedding day is an opportunity to openly express their love and commitment. Inclusive wedding signage, like a "Two Grooms Pick a Seat" sign, plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the event. It symbolizes acceptance and unity, encouraging guests to sit wherever they feel comfortable, thus breaking away from traditional seating norms. This approach not only makes everyone feel welcome but also emphasizes that love knows no boundaries.

​Designing Custom Signage for Your Wedding  

​Creating custom signage for your wedding offers a unique opportunity to reflect your personality and the theme of your event. When designing a "Two Grooms Pick a Seat" sign, consider incorporating elements that resonate with you and your partner. This could include your wedding colors, a favorite quote, or even symbols that hold special meaning. At Blue Bonsai Printing, we specialize in turning your vision into reality, ensuring that your signage complements your overall wedding decor. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more elaborate, our team is here to help you create a memorable piece that guests will admire.

​Practical Tips for Displaying Your Ceremony Signage  

​Once you have your custom sign, the next step is deciding how to display it effectively during your ceremony. Placement is key. Consider positioning the sign at the entrance of the ceremony space, where it can be easily seen by arriving guests. You might also want to place smaller versions of the sign at various points throughout the venue to reinforce the message. Additionally, using easels or decorative stands can enhance the visual appeal of your sign, making it an integral part of your wedding decor.

​Enhancing Guest Experience with Seating Guides 

​A well-thought-out seating guide not only helps guests find their place but also adds to their overall experience. For a "Two Grooms Pick a Seat" sign, the message is clear: guests are free to sit wherever they choose, promoting a sense of community and togetherness. This approach can be particularly beneficial for family members and friends who may not know each other well, as it encourages mingling and interaction. By removing the traditional "groom's side" and "bride's side" divisions, you create a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.

Why Choose Blue Bonsai Printing for Your Wedding Signage?  

At Blue Bonsai Printing, we understand the importance of every detail in your wedding planning. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets us apart as a trusted partner in creating beautiful, custom wedding signage. We offer a range of design options and materials to suit your needs, ensuring that your "Two Grooms Pick a Seat" sign is both durable and visually stunning. Let us help you celebrate your love story with signage that speaks to who you are as a couple.

A "Two Grooms Pick a Seat" sign is more than just a piece of decor; it's a celebration of love and inclusivity. By choosing custom signage that reflects your personality and values, you create a welcoming environment for all your guests. At Blue Bonsai Printing, we are dedicated to helping you make your wedding day as unique and special as your love story. Let us be a part of your journey in creating unforgettable memories.

For more details and to purchase your custom sign, visit our  https://www.etsy.com/listing/1859000913/gay-wedding-seating-sign-display-for
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Disney Wedding Invitations

11/22/2021

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(c) Walt Disney Pictures
I get this question a lot…. “Do you do Disney invitations?”  My answer is always “I do Disney inspired invitations but it is a tricky navigation with copyright.”

Let me start with some facts:
  1. Copyright and licensure laws in the United States are air tight.  They also include “throwing the book” at offenders as a standard.  This is to deter people from violating them.
  2. But people still do.  Look at Etsy and it is a very quick search to see how many people are not caring about copyright laws.  Whether that be ignorance or disregard, I cannot say.  But I am sure everyone fits into one of those categories.
  3. Disney does license their copyrighted material.  The price and limitations are very clear.  It is possible and expensive.
  4. I am not a lawyer and none of this should be seen as legal advice.  This is all from personal experience.

So in reference to copyright law…. I will not violate it.  If it is a question, my answer is no.  This goes for many things, not just Disney wedding invitations.  I have had couples contact me with a design and asked me to recreate it.  Nope.  Sorry.  Not that I can’t, just that I won’t.  I am happy to reach out and see if any of the stationers I know originally did the design and pass their information on to you.  I have done this on numerous occasions.

Etsy…. See my blog about my feelings towards Etsy.  It’s not all shade.  Just when it comes to the copyright violation that is rampantly allowed.  (Insert deep breath here).  The major problem I have is that people design illegal products, sell them, and then the customer is stuck with a useless product.  Let me tell you a scenario I have experienced more times than I can count.  Jane buys a digital design off Etsy and is told “You can print them anywhere” in the listing description.  Wrong.  They go to get their digital product printed and nowhere will print them.  Not Vistaprint. Not FedEx. Not Target, Walmart, Walgreens, Office Depot, Costco or any other printing place.  Everywhere tells Jane that it violates copyright for them to print it.  This is true.  It violates copyright because they cannot profit in any way from it.  Jane then comes to me because I am a small business thinking that I will do it.  Sorry.  I always feel bad for Jane because she was duped.

Now as I said, Disney does license their copyrighted things.  They have a very large licensure office and the people there are very nice.  I had a couple who wanted to use characters on their invitations and I reached out to Disney to see about licensing.  They were happy to give me a price and limitations (and there were many!).  But that is their right.  If I had a couple that wanted to do that I would happily do it again.

Now that we’ve gotten through all the Debbie Downer stuff, let’s talk about what is possible.  I can make a Disney inspired invitation. Options I have done are using colors and fonts that are similar and give the same feel.  Using a colored envelope, like a bright gold or lilac color, can fit well with a Disney theme.

So you can have invitations that can be very nice and fit a Disney themed wedding without actually having Disney characters or other copyrighted materials on them. 

Check out some of my other blogs for inspired invitations:
Beauty and the Beast
Wizard of Oz

Keyword: Disney, wedding, wedding invitations, Disney wedding invitations

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How to write parents' names on wedding invitations

2/22/2021

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For many years the bride’s parents paid for the wedding and were the hosts of the wedding.  You were not invited by the bride and groom, you were invited by her parents.  Times have changed and many couples are paying for their own weddings in part or all of it.  Couples today are older now than they ever have been before and are taking more control of their weddings, including paying themselves.

Some people still choose to include their parents’ names on the wedding invitations.  Whether it is one set of parents or both sets of parents.  While there are many ways to do this it is important to choose the best one for you and your situation.

Sometimes the situation is complicated.  If one or both sets of parents are divorced, or remarried, it can be confusing to know how to list them on the invitation.

Lets run through some ways to show how to use parents’ names on wedding invitations.  These would all be above the couple’s names on the invitations :

No parent’s names:  “Together with their families” or nothing at all above the couple’s names

Bride’s parents inviting:  

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith 

invite you to the wedding of their daughter

Bride’s parents inviting but they are divorced: 

Ms. Samantha Smith (in this case the mother’s name always goes first)

Mr. John Smith

Invite you to the wedding of their daughter

Bride’s parents inviting but are remarried:

Mr. and Mrs. Gavin Stewart (mother and current husband always go first)

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

Invite you to the wedding of their daughter

Including both sets of parents’ names:

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith 

invite you to the wedding of their daughter

Grace Smith to Liam Collins

The son of Mr. and Mrs. James Collins

As you can see, there are many options for how to list parent’s names on wedding invitations.  There is no “right” or ‘wrong” way to do it. There are more traditional ways to do it too but not required.   There are only preferences.  Your preferences may be your parents’ preferences.  Ultimately it is up to you how you want it worded though.

Keywords: Parents names, hosting the wedding, divorced parents, remarried parents, wedding, wedding invitations

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Invitations for Destination Weddings

2/8/2021

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Invitations for destination weddings have some additional things to consider and include in the invitations.  Here are some answers to common questions I get about destination weddings and invitations for them.

What is a destination wedding?  There are two ways to classify a “destination” wedding.  1) A wedding where more than half of your guests are traveling more than a three hour drive from home  is considered a destination wedding.  This could be because the venue you selected is far from your guests.  Or that you moved and are having your wedding in the new place you are living.  More than 3 hours from home means they will most likely need a hotel room for the night.  2) If you and all your guests are travelling and need accommodations.  Commonly these are international destinations, cruises, and Las Vegas. 

When should I send save the dates and invitations for my destination wedding?  Save the dates should be sent around the 1 year mark before the wedding.  This gives your guests extra time to save money for the trip as well as make sure they have the correct travel documents, if required.  Invitations should go out 5-6 months before the wedding.  Guests will need to start making their travel arrangements so giving them all the details earlier is better.

What details should I include about the wedding in the invitations?
  If you are having a room block reserved you will want to include the name of the hotel as well as how guests are to reserve the rooms.  Many hotels will give you a name for your guests to give when they call in to reserve their rooms.  Finding the right airport that your guests should fly into is nice to include on your invitations.  Airport name and abbreviation is very helpful for your guests (i.e. Portland International Airport (PDX)).

Keywords: destination wedding, destination wedding invitations, wedding, wedding website

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5 Facts about wedding invitations details

1/18/2021

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There is a lot of information and details that go into your wedding invitations.  There are also details that should not be included.  Here is a list of things you should keep in mind when it comes to invitation details.

Bride’s name traditionally goes first on the invitation:  This is because the parents of the bride were usually hosting because they were paying for the wedding.  Even though the “bride’s parents pay for the wedding” is not as common as it used to be it is still customary for the bride’s name to go first on the invitation (i.e. “Grace and Liam,” not “Liam and Grace”)

The year is a 4 digit number:  2020 is “two thousand twenty.”  Not “twenty twenty” even though that is how many people say it.  Officially years are 4 digit numbers and there is no “and” in them.  2021 is “two thousand twenty-one.”  


Is it “afternoon” or “evening?”:  Evening starts at 6:00pm.  So anything before 6:00pm is afternoon and 6:00pm and after is evening.  


Ceremony address does NOT go on the invitation:  The venue name and city, state go on the invitation but not the street address itself.  Because the invitation is a formal invitation the address is not included.  This information goes on an insert card.  Keep in mind that you can do just the address if the venue is easy to find or you can include directions if it is hard to find or cell reception can be spotty (i.e. Google Maps won’t work).  If your ceremony and reception are in different locations it is nice to put the directions from the ceremony location to the reception location on an insert card as well.  This information can go on the same card as the ceremony address/directions.


Registry information does not go anywhere in the invitation suite:  Including this in the invitation suite is considered rude by formal etiquette standards.  Your wedding website and shower invitations are great places for this.  Be sure to let your wedding party know where you are registered in case people ask them.  Word of mouth and your wedding website is the best way to convey registry information.  Some people choose to add it in their suite and it should definitely be on an insert card and not on the invitation itself.


Keywords: wedding, wedding invitation, invitation details, colored envelopes, colored text
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All about Envelope Addressing

1/4/2021

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There is a lot to know about addressing your envelopes.  You can be formal or informal with your addressing.  You can also get creative with your formatting, but don’t get too creative or the post office won’t deliver.

For save the dates you can choose to be formal or informal with the addressing, it is up to you.  Generally, save the dates are informal and invitations are formal.  But not in call cases.

When deciding the format of addressing- formal or more casual- should follow the theme of your wedding.  If you are having a black tie affair in a ballroom you should follow all addressing etiquette for a formal affair.  If you are having a more cocktail attire wedding you can choose to be more casual in your addressing.  If you are having a rustic wedding you can choose to be pretty casual.  Ultimately it is your choice but it is a good idea to be in line with the theme and style of your wedding.
Here are some examples:

Formal wording (Using formal names and spelling out all words. No nicknames for guests): 

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Smith
1234 Southwest Main Street
Anywhere, Oregon 97520


Informal/less casual than formal(Nicknames and abbreviations are ok):

Mr. & Mrs. Chris Smith
1234 SW Main St
Anywhere, OR 97520


Very casual (Just following basic addressing rules that the post office requires):

Chris & Jenny Smith
1234 SW Main St
Anywhere, OR 97520


You will notice that not only is the writing for the names different but also the addresses themselves.  A formal address will have everything spelled out.  There is no right or wrong choice.  There are just ones that may fit your wedding better than the others.  If you are working with a stationer that offers guest addressing they can help with which format to use.  Or you can always reach out and I can help with addressing or give you guidance.

Note about non-heterosexual couples: If you have guests that are members of the LGBTQ community you may have questions related to that. You would follow the same formality choice as your other invitations but there would be changes in the names.   Here are some examples of how to address the names:

Same-sex couple (whether they identify as male or female):

Mr. Christopher Smith and Mr. Jeffrey Davis
Mr. Chris Smith & Mr. Jeff Davis
Chris Smith & Jeff Davis

Gender fluid, queer, or does not identify as one gender
:


Mx. Jamie Barnes and Ms. Jennifer Evans
Mx. Jamie Barnes & Ms. Jenny Evans
Jamie Barnes & Jenny Evans

Envelope addressing can be a stressful part of wedding planning.  From the hand cramps to the etiquette to the formatting, it can all be a source of stress.  Most stationers offer guest addressing.  Discuss the options with your stationer or reach out to me for more guidance and options.

Keywords: wedding invitations, save the dates, guest addressing

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