Wedding Stationery: Essentials vs. Nice to Have, What Do You Really Need?

Planning your wedding stationery can feel overwhelming, there are so many options, and it’s easy to wonder what’s actually essential and what’s just a nice extra. To help you decide, I’ve put together this simple guide to break it all down.

Essentials – The Must Haves

These are the key stationery pieces that help your wedding day run smoothly and ensure your guests have all the important details.

✔️ Invitations – The heart of your wedding stationery! Your invitations set the tone for your big day and give guests all the key details.

✔️ RSVP Cards – If you're not collecting responses online, RSVP cards help guests respond easily and ensure you get an accurate guest count.

✔️ Save the Dates – Not always necessary, but ideal for destination weddings or peak seasons when guests need extra time to plan, save money and send digital ones.

✔️ Order of Service – If you're having a structured ceremony, an Order of Service helps guests follow along and adds a special touch.

✔️ Table Plan – A must have if you’re having assigned seating. A well designed table plan helps guests find their place easily.

✔️ Place Cards – If you have assigned seating, place cards add a personal touch and help with organisation.

✔️ Menus – Perfect for sit down meals with menu choices, giving guests a clear idea of what to expect.

Nice to Have Extras, Adding a Special Touch

These are beautiful details that can enhance your wedding but aren’t strictly necessary.

Welcome Sign – A lovely way to greet your guests and set the tone for your celebration.

Envelope Liners & Wax Seals – Small but impactful details that add a luxury feel to your invitations.

Vow Books – A keepsake for couples who are writing their own vows.

Signage – From bar menus to guestbook signs, extra signage can add personality and style to your venue.

Personalised Thank You Cards – A thoughtful post wedding touch to show appreciation to your guests.

Custom Venue Illustration – A unique and personal keepsake that can also be used in your invitation design and signage.

On the Day Guest Illustrations – A one of a kind favour for your guests that they’ll treasure forever.

What’s Worth Splurging On?

If you’re looking to elevate your wedding stationery, here are some areas where a little extra investment can make a big impact:

High Quality Printing & Paper – The feel of luxurious, thick cardstock or specialty printing like letterpress, foil, or embossing makes a statement.

Hand Lettered or Calligraphy Details – Whether it’s hand addressed envelopes or personalised place cards, these details add a unique, artisanal touch.

Bespoke Illustrations – Custom venue sketches, couple portraits, or pet illustrations can make your invitations stand out and double as keepsakes.

Envelope Liners & Wax Seals – Small details like custom printed envelope liners, ribbons, or wax seals can give your invitations a polished, elegant finish.

On the Day Stationery & Signage – A beautifully designed welcome sign, bar menu, or seating chart can bring everything together and create a cohesive look.

On the Day Guest Sketches – Live guest portraits are a unique experience for your guests and provide them with a keepsake from your wedding day.

What’s Right for You?

Every couple is different, some prefer a full stationery suite, while others take a more minimal approach. Whether you’re looking for just the essentials or want to add some beautiful finishing touches, I can help design something perfect for your wedding!

Want to chat about your wedding stationery? Get in touch today!