Let’s be honest, sometimes the wedding planning process can seem a little stressful and overwhelming. I get it! Believe me. But, I truly want to make the “stationery” part of your wedding as pain free as possible. To avoid a lot of confusion that tends to come up during the designing and ordering process, I’ve put together a little glossary of the most used terms when dealing with stationery. Hopefully, this will help you navigate the paper waters with a little more ease.
Custom Invitations
Looking for something different or have a specific idea in mind? Then custom design is the way to go. From watercolor washes to printing on acrylics the options really are endless.
Semi-Custom Invitations
Semi-custom is the perfect way to get a quality invitation without breaking your budget. Choose from one of the designs and customize your colors and wording. Keep it simple or go for the upgrades to really set your invitation suite apart.
WEDDING INVITATION STRUCTURE
Invitation - This is the most important piece of your invitation suite. It includes all of the important details — the couple’s names, location, date, time and ceremony location. For more details on how to word this important item please visit the invitation wording page.
Insert Card - This is an optional piece that most couples include. The insert card houses all of the “other” information not included on the invitation such as accommodations, weekend events, directions, website info and more! Multiple insert cards can be included if preferred.
Response Card - The response card is mailed back to you indicating who is attending and their meal choice (if applicable). This card is coupled with the response envelope and is sometimes turned into a postcard for a simpler return process.
Response Envelope - This accompanies the response card and should be printed with your return address and adorned with proper postage, allowing your guests to reply with ease.
Inner Envelope - The most traditional way of addressing your envelopes. All of your guests names should be included on the envelope giving it a more personalized feel and indicating exactly who is invited. This would also be paired with an outer envelope that includes guest addressing.
Outer Envelope - This is the most standard envelope option. This should include the guest address and the names of all of the invited guests. Typically your return address goes on the back flap.
ADD ONS
Belly Band - A strip of paper that wraps around the invitation to bundle the invitation suite together. It comes in any color and can be customized or paired with a monogram tag for a little extra detail. This add on keeps the invitation flat and does not require any additional postage.
Silk Ribbon - Silk ribbon is another way to bundle your invitation together, while adding a touch of elegance. This is typically paired with a monogram tag. This add on does require additional postage.
Monogram Tag - Typically paired with a belly band or monogram tag, this is a great way to tie your invitation suite together using a customized monogram. Standard monogram tags are 2.5 inches square but can be customized to fit your needs.
Envelope Liner - The perfect way to add a pop of color or a nice floral element to any invitation suite. These pair well with any invitation suite and add an extra layer of protection.
Mat Backer - Typically used when mounting the invitation to a pocket folder, this adds an extra layer to the invitation giving it an extra pop of color and extra layer of thickness. Offered in a variety of colors and patterns. Can be used without the pocket folder as well.
Pocket Folder - Offered in a variety of shapes and sizes and perfect for keeping your invitation neatly packaged together. This is a super popular option and is available for both custom and semi-custom design.
Wax Seals - The old fashioned way of sealing a letter. Wax is heated, poured and then stamped with a custom stamp to seal your invitation together. Commonly paired with bellybands, envelopes, vellum wraps, etc. Modern day wax seals can also be converted into stickers for a more functional and resealable option.
Vellum Wrap - A semi-transparent sheet of paper wrapped around your invitation suite. Typically sealed with a wax seal or monogram sticker. Can be customized for an extra level of glam and offers another layer of protection when mailing.
Vellum/Tissue Insert - A single sheet of vellum or tissue inserted between your wedding invitation and the rest of the invitation suite. It offers a traditional elegance along with a bit of protection from smudging and scratching.
There are so many more terms that I could share in this post, but I think this will get you started. If you want to deep dive into ALL the stationery terms, then I suggest clicking HERE. I have included these and many more terms related to printing styles, upgrades and more.
And, please contact me if you have any questions. I’m here to help!