Your wedding day is one of the most important and special days of your life. As an Atlanta wedding photographer, I know that creating the perfect wedding invitation suite is an essential part of the planning process and sets the tone for your entire wedding. A wedding invitation suite is made up of several key components that provide your guests with all the necessary details about your big day. Wondering where to start when it comes to choosing the wedding invitation suite essentials? In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know, from the must-have basics to the nice-to-have extras. With these tips, you’ll be able to design a beautiful, cohesive wedding invitation suite that wows your guests and gets them excited for your special day.
Basic Wedding Invitation Must-haves
While there are dozens of extras you can include, your wedding invitation suite really only needs these core components:
1. The Invitation Card
The invitation card is the centrepiece of your wedding invitation suite. It should include the date, time, and location of the wedding ceremony, along with the names of the bride and groom. You should also include RSVP instructions and a deadline for RSVPs. The design of the invitation card should reflect the style and theme of your wedding.
2. The RSVP Card
The RSVP card is an important component of your wedding invitation suite. It should include a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for your guests to return their RSVP. The RSVP card should also include the deadline for RSVPs and the number of guests attending. Alternatively, it’s becoming increasingly popular for couples to opt to RSVP via a wedding website or dedicated email address instead of having a paper RSVP card and envelopes.
3. The Details Card
The details card is a useful addition to your wedding invitation suite. It can include information about the wedding reception, including the time and location, and any special instructions or requests. The details card can also include information about accommodations, parking, or transportation for out of town guests. This makes it easy for guests to book hotels and travel to the wedding.
Pro Tip: Learn more about planning a wedding weekend for out of town guests.
4. The Envelopes
The envelope is an important part of your wedding invitation suite, as it is the first thing your guests will see. You should choose a high-quality envelope that matches the style and theme of your wedding. Envelope liners, a printed sender address on the back of the envelope, and embossed monograms are all beautiful additional extras should the couple choose. The envelope should be addressed clearly in either a handwritten calligraphy script or a printed font that matches the overall design and aesthetic of the invitation suite and include the correct postage.
Pro Tip: Save two invitation suites for your detail photos on your wedding day. The second invitation suite is a backup in case the first gets damaged while traveling.
Optional Extras to Elevate Your Stationary Suite
While not essential, these extras add a special touch:
- Save the Date Cards: Send these 4-6 months in advance so guests can plan.
- Menu Cards: Share menu details if you’re having a plated dinner reception.
- Detailed Maps: Hand-drawn maps show venues and local attractions. Great for destination weddings!
- Wedding Programs: Provide the ceremony order of events and wedding party names.
Wedding Invitation Suite Essentials Checklist
Here are some quick bullet points for what each main component of a wedding invitation suite needs:
Invitation Card
- Names of bride & groom
- Date of wedding
- Time of wedding
- Location(s) and addresses
- RSVP information
- RSVP deadline
RSVP Card
- Space for number of guests attending
- Mailing address for RSVPs
- Pre-addressed, stamped envelope
Details Card
- Reception location, time, address
- Parking/transportation details
- Accommodation information
- Dress code
Envelopes
- High-quality paper
- Properly addressed
- Correct postage
- Coordinating liner (optional)
Bring It All Together Seamlessly
Your wedding invitation suite should feel cohesive. Make sure all elements use a consistent color scheme, font, and aesthetic. This gives guests a taste of your wedding style from the very first card they receive.
As an Atlanta wedding photographer, I’m happy to offer couples wedding stationery suite advice. Feel free to reach out if you need help designing your dream wedding invitations!
