Save the Dates
Production
Design and printing should start at least 8 months before your wedding. This process can take up to 2 months.
Send
The best time to send a save the date is 6 months before your wedding. This gives your guests plenty of time to mark their calendars and make any necessary arrangements.
If you’re planning a destination wedding, it’s courteous to give your guests as much notice as possible. In this case, send your save the dates at least one year in advance to allow for travel planning and accommodation booking.
Invitations
For all events such as, engagement party, bridal shower, bachelor(ette) party, rehearsal dinner, or wedding.
Production
Design and printing should start at least 5 months before your wedding. This process can take up to 2 months.
Send
The best time to send your invitations is 3 months before your wedding or event. This gives your guests ample time to prepare based on the details you provided, purchase gifts off your registry, RSVP, etc.
Make sure to set a deadline for RSVPs. Your venue will need a final guest count approximately one month before your wedding day.
Day-of Stationery or Signage
For all custom stationery or signs for the day of your event, whether your engagement party or your wedding day, etc.
Production
Design and printing should start at least 3 months before your wedding or event. This process can take up to 2 months.
Receive
You should receive your day-of stationery and signs 1 month before your wedding or event.
Thank You Cards
Production
Design and printing should start at least 2 months before your wedding or event. This process can take up to 2 months.
Send
The best time to send your thank you cards is up to 2 months after your wedding or event.
Wedding Stationery & Signage Timelines Overview
To simplify your planning, keep track of the wedding stationery & signage timelines given your specific wedding or event month in the table below.
Holiday Block*
Due to a high volume of mail and packages being sent during the November and December months, it is not recommended to send any invitations, save the dates, or thank you cards at this time. You’ll see the suggested months in the wedding stationery & signage timelines table above.
When to Book
Keep in mind that these timelines are estimates to guide your planning. The more pieces of stationery and signage you order, the longer it will take to design, provide approvals, print, and assemble. Therefore, you’ll want to start this process sooner than later to avoid losing your spot, running out of time, sacrificing your vision, rush fees, etc.
Book your consultation as early as one year to 10 months before your wedding to discuss as many details as possible. Secure your spot early so your items can go into production on time and be sent to your guests on time.
Conclusion
Custom wedding stationery and signage adds a unique and personal touch to your special day, but it also requires careful planning and a longer process to ensure everything is perfect. By securing your spot early and following these wedding stationery & signage timelines, you can focus on all the important details that will elevate your wedding or event.
Get started on your dream wedding stationery and signage!
