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How to Get Started with Wedding Invitations: A Complete Guide for Newly Engaged Couples

Congratulations on your engagement! Now that you’ve said “yes” to forever, it’s time to start planning the celebration. As you embark on this exciting journey, one of the most important aspects of wedding planning is your wedding invitations. Your stationery sets the tone for the big day, providing a first glimpse into the style and theme of your wedding. If you’re wondering where to begin, don’t worry—Raspberry Creative is here to guide you through each step. Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to start your wedding invitation journey, from choosing your style to understanding timelines. Let’s dive in!

marielle crest bookmark save the date french blue classic

Step 1: Define Your Wedding Style and Theme

Your wedding invitation is the first impression guests will have of your big day, so it’s essential to choose a design that reflects your style. Are you planning a classic, elegant affair, a rustic outdoor celebration, or a modern, chic event? Knowing your theme will help guide your stationery choices.

  • Classic Elegance: Look for timeless elements like embossed details, calligraphy fonts, and neutral color palettes.
  • Rustic Charm: Opt for natural elements, deckled edges, or watercolor florals to evoke an outdoor vibe.
  • Modern Minimalist: Go with sleek lines, monochromatic palettes, and bold typography.


Tip: Don’t feel pressured to know exactly what you want immediately. Browsing online galleries or Pinterest boards can be a great way to find inspiration.

georgina line art floral wedding invitation

Step 2: Choose Your Wedding Stationery Suite

A wedding invitation suite is more than just the invitation; it often includes multiple pieces that together provide guests with essential details. Here’s a quick breakdown of typical stationery components:

  • Save the Dates: These are sent early to ensure guests reserve your date, especially if you’re planning a destination wedding.
  • Invitation: The main event! This is where you provide key details—date, time, and location.
  • RSVP Card: For guests to respond with their attendance. Some couples also include meal choices here.
  • Details Card: For additional information like directions, hotel accommodations, or dress code.
  • Day-Of Stationery:  Your wedding day stationery can not only enhance the look and feel of your day, these pieces can also function to help guide your guests and make them feel welcome.  From ceremony programs to signage, place cards and menu cards, you can select the pieces that will best fit your wedding.
  • Thank You Cards: A thoughtful way to express gratitude after the event.


Not every couple needs a full suite, so feel free to tailor it to fit your needs and budget. At Raspberry Creative, we offer both complete suites and customizable packages to suit every couple.

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Step 3: Set Your Budget

Your wedding stationery budget will depend on your guest count, the design complexity, and the types of materials you choose. Here are a few ways to make the most of your budget:

  • Prioritize Key Elements: If custom artwork is essential to you, consider simplifying other parts of the suite to stay within budget.
  • Opt for Semi-Custom Designs: Raspberry Creative offers semi-custom invitations that you can personalize to make your own without the full cost of custom design.
  • Choose Digital RSVP Options: Digital RSVPs (instead of physical RSVP cards) can save on printing and postage.


Tip: Your wedding stationery is an investment, but there are creative ways to make it both beautiful and budget-friendly.

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Step 4: Understand Your Timeline

Timing is everything! Here’s a general timeline to keep in mind for your wedding invitations:

  • 9-12 Months Before: Send out Save the Dates, especially if your wedding is during peak season or requires travel.
  • 4-6 Months Before: Send out the formal invitations. This gives guests enough time to make arrangements, and you’ll get RSVPs in time to finalize details.
  • 1-2 Months After: Send out Thank You cards. It’s a thoughtful way to express your gratitude and maintain that personal connection with your guests.

Starting early gives you plenty of time to design, print, and mail everything without stress. At Raspberry Creative, we’ll work closely with you to ensure everything goes out on time.

custom monogram wax seal stamp

Step 5: Add Personal Touches

This is where you can really make your invitations stand out! Some ways to add personal touches to your stationery include:

  • Custom Monograms or Crests: Incorporating your initials or a unique design element can add elegance and personalization.
  • Vellum and Wax Seals: Layering vellum or adding a wax seal can give your suite a luxurious feel.
  • Handwritten Calligraphy: This is an excellent option for addressing envelopes or personalizing each invitation.
  • Unique Embellishments: Think vintage stamps, ribbon, or even a photo of the couple to make your invitation unforgettable.


Tip: Adding just one or two unique elements is often enough to create a wow factor without overwhelming your design.

Step 6: Proofread and Print

It may sound simple, but this step is crucial! Before sending your invitations to print, triple-check every detail. Make sure names, dates, and locations are correct, and have someone else review everything too.  Here at Raspberry Creative, we have a solid proofing process that walks you through the review of each piece step-by-step so you feel confident that your wedding stationery will be perfect.

Tips for Mailing Your Wedding Invitations Ensuring They Arrive Perfectly

Step 7: Assemble and Mail Your Invitations

Once your invitations arrive, it’s time for the fun part: assembly! While RAspberry Creative doesn’t stuff your envelopes for you, we do send your invitations fully assembled as far as they can be.  If you have embellishments like wax seals or ribbons, those items will be assembled so you don’t have to.

Be sure to mail your invitations according to your timeline—sending them out too early or too late can impact RSVPs.

Planning your wedding invitations doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking it step-by-step and working with experts like Raspberry Creative, you can create a wedding stationery suite that feels uniquely yours. Whether you’re going for timeless elegance or modern minimalism, we’re here to make your vision come to life. Ready to get started? Contact us today to begin your wedding invitation journey!

How to Get Started with Wedding Invitations: A Complete Guide for Newly Engaged Couples