Modern etiquette + expert guidance = a stress-free invitation process.
At Soirée Signatures, we know that invitations are more than just paper—they’re the emotional first impression of your wedding day. Below is our advice for what to do (and what to avoid), along with realistic timelines to help you plan ahead and enjoy the process.
WHEN TO START DESIGNING
Start planning your invitation suite at least 4–6 months before your wedding date.
Custom invitations require care, time, and creativity—especially when incorporating hand calligraphy, specialty print methods, or layered embellishments. For a seamless experience, we recommend:
Initial Design Consultation: 6–8 months out
Finalizing Designs + Approval: 4 months out
Allow Time for Printing + Calligraphy: 3–4 weeks
Mailing Your Invitations: 8–10 weeks before your event
💡 TIP: If you’re ordering save the dates, we recommend starting your stationery journey 8–12 months before the big day.
SAVE THE DATES
When to Send:
Traditional Weddings: 6–8 months in advance
Destination Weddings or Peak Seasons: 8–12 months in advance
Why Send Them:
Save the dates give your guests time to make travel arrangements and secure lodging—especially important for destination weddings or holiday weekends. They’re also the perfect place to share your wedding website, hotel blocks, and a preview of your style.
WEDDING INVITATIONS
When to Send:
We now recommend mailing your invitations 8–10 weeks before the wedding, regardless of whether you sent a save the date. Postal delivery times can vary, and this buffer ensures your guests receive their invitation with enough time to RSVP and prepare.
When to Order:
Place your invitation order at least 4 months in advance, especially if:
You’re using calligraphy or foil stamping
You need inner/outer envelopes
You want time to proof, revise, and print with care
ADDITIONAL PRINTED PIECES
Planning a full weekend celebration? You may need additional stationery like:
Ceremony Programs
Menus
Escort Cards or Seating Charts
Table Numbers
Welcome Notes
Itineraries or Activity Cards
Custom Signage
Monogrammed Napkins, Cups, or Details
Order these 6–8 weeks before your wedding to ensure timely delivery and styling consistency.
INVITATION DO’S & DON’TS
✅ DO order extras.
Always print at least 10 extra invitations and 20% extra envelopes. These come in handy for last-minute additions, address errors, photographers, and keepsakes.
❌ DON’T abbreviate addresses.
Spell out street names, cities, and states in full for formal wedding invitations. This is especially important for envelopes addressed by hand or in calligraphy.
✅ DO be clear about RSVP deadlines.
We recommend an RSVP deadline that’s 3–4 weeks before the wedding. This gives you enough time to finalize your guest count and prepare your seating chart and day-of stationery.
❌ DON’T forget to weigh your invitation suite.
If you’re including wax seals, thick paper, or layered cards, ask the post office to weigh a complete set before buying stamps.
✅ DO keep your design cohesive.
Your invitation suite sets the tone for your event. Carrying your fonts, colors, and monogram throughout your signage and day-of items ensures everything feels elevated and intentional.
Ready to begin your invitation journey?
Let us help you create a timeless suite that’s a joy to send—and even more exciting to receive.
📩 Contact us or book your consultation today.