wedding paper timeline

you’re engaged! now what?

You're probably a little overwhelmed with the looming to-do list. My best bit of advice is to invest in a wedding planner or day-of coordinator as soon as possible. Seriously, no one ever regrets it, and they can stretch your budget while protecting your sanity like superheroes. 

Let's talk stationery! 

SAVE THE DATES

This is why it's important to start thinking about wedding paper early in the process. Save the Dates should go out anywhere from 6 months to 12 months in advance, depending on your guests (is it a destination wedding? a private affair with close friends?). A couple of additional things to consider: do you want to incorporate an engagement photo or two? When do you anticipate finalizing your guest list? 

START THINKIN': as soon as you get engaged!
SEND: 6-12 months in advance

INVITATIONS

If you decide to go the custom route, make sure you've budgeted enough time, or you may face rush fees. I recommend getting started as soon as possible, but 8 months before the big day is a good goal. Invitations are typically sent 10-12 weeks in advance, with exceptions for destination weddings or small affairs. 

START THINKIN': 8 months in advance
SEND: 10-12 weeks in advance

DAY-OF STATIONERY

This category includes menus, programs, escort cards, signage, favor tags, etc: anything that will be used on your wedding day. The benefit of getting a stationer/calligrapher on board early on is that all of these pieces will coordinate perfectly with the stationery your guests have already received from you. It's nice to have a beautiful AND cohesive message throughout the process. Printed items, like menus and programs, should be on your radar in the last three months of planning. This is when you'll be close to finalize guest counts, menu items, reception layout, and all the remaining important details.

START THINKIN': 3 months in advance
PRINT: 4 weeks in advance