Wedding Invitation Vocabulary: Our Complete Guide
When planning your wedding, you’ll most likely encounter invitation-related terminology that might feel a bit overwhelming. In fact, many couples learn that there’s much more to wedding invitations than the invitation itself.
From save-the-dates to RSVP cards, each component plays a role in setting the tone of your special day and making sure that your guests have all the information they need to celebrate with you.
That’s why we created a guide to wedding invitation vocabulary, breaking down each element that you might need to consider or include in your stationery suite or day-of stationery package.
Save-the-Date
Save-the-date cards are your guests’ first introduction to your wedding plans. Sent out six to twelve months before the big day, these cards announce the date and location of your wedding, allowing your guests to mark their calendars well in advance. They don’t include detailed information— but information like the wedding date, location, and wedding website URL to make sure your loved ones are able to plan accordingly.
RSVP Card
The RSVP card, short for "Répondez S'il Vous Plaît," or "please respond" in French, is a component of your invitation suite that allows guests to confirm their attendance and often includes options for meal preferences or other specific details. It helps the couple get an accurate headcount to share with caterers and the venue, making sure everyone is accommodated well in advance.
Details Card
Details cards are the go-to insert for any additional information your guests might need. They can include information about additional events like welcome parties, maps, transportation options, parking instructions, or notes on local accommodations. This card is particularly helpful for destination weddings or events where logistics might be more complicated.
Accommodations Card
For weddings with many out-of-town guests, an accommodations card is a thoughtful addition. It lists nearby hotels, often with room blocks or special rates arranged ahead of time. Providing this information makes it easier for guests to plan their stay and make sure they’re close to the venue and other guests. Many couples opt to include this information on their details card instead.
Inner and Outer Envelopes
Traditionally, wedding invitations are sent in both an inner and an outer envelope (sometimes referred to as the “mailing envelope”). The outer envelope protects the contents during transit, while the inner envelope presents the invitation suite in a more formal, polished manner. Modern couples often opt for just the outer envelope to save paper and costs.
Envelope Liner
Envelope liners are decorative inserts that sit inside the envelope, adding color, pattern, or texture to the invitation’s overall presentation. They’re a simple way to elevate the design of your invitation suite, giving guests a hint of your wedding’s theme from the moment they open the envelope. Our Garden Rose Suite, for example, includes a rose print envelope liner that complements the floral theme of the invitation.
Belly Band
A belly band is a wrap, typically made from paper, ribbon, or fabric, that holds the elements of your invitation suite together. It keeps everything organized while adding an extra layer of style to your presentation. We offer printed belly bands with both our custom and semi-custom wedding invitation suites to add a cohesive and polished finishing touch that ties your entire suite together.
Wax Seals
Wax seals can be used to seal your envelopes and/or to add a personalized detail to your overall invitation suite. Available in a variety of colors and designs, we love how they completely personalize your invitations while making them stand out.
Calligraphy
Whether used for addressing envelopes, writing guest names, or even crafting your main invitation text, calligraphy adds an elegant feel to your invitation suite. Our calligraphy is hand-drawn by our owner and creative director, Rachel, to add a special touch to any custom design.
Day-of Stationery
Day-of stationery refers to all the printed materials used on your wedding day to guide your guests through your celebration. This includes items like small-scale signage (think: custom table numbers, cocktail signs, welcome signs, and more), seating charts, menus, and itineraries, and more. These pieces help create a cohesive experience for your entire celebration, from the initial save-the-date to the wedding day itself.
With questions about timing, the design process, and which style of invitation suite is best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out! Additionally, if you have an idea for your invitation suite or day-of stationery, we’d love to hear it. If you can dream it, our talented team can build it.
