Planning a wedding is filled with countless decisions—but one of the most meaningful (and often overlooked) pieces is your wedding stationery. From the first Save the Date to the final thank you note, your paper details set the tone for your entire celebration and serve as cherished keepsakes for years to come.
To help you navigate every step, I’ve created a complete wedding stationery timeline and checklist so you can stay organized, on schedule, and enjoy the process.
9 to 12 Months Before the Wedding
Begin building your guest list and start gathering mailing addresses.
If you're planning a destination wedding, now is a great time to send Save the Dates.
Secure your stationer early, especially if you're envisioning custom artwork, letterpress, or specialty printing methods.
6 to 9 Months Before the Wedding
If you haven't already, send Save the Dates.
Begin initial design conversations and explore different printing methods such as digital, foil, embossing, or letterpress.
3 Months Before the Wedding
Mail your wedding invitations. While 8 weeks was once the norm, many couples now send invites earlier to allow guests ample time for travel and planning.
1 to 2 Months Before the Wedding
Begin collecting RSVPs and finalizing your headcount.
Confirm and place orders for day-of paper goods: menus, place cards, signage, programs, and any custom pieces like cocktail signs or welcome itineraries.
2 Months After the Wedding
Send thank you notes to your guests. Even if a guest didn’t bring a gift, it’s thoughtful to acknowledge their presence and support.
Wedding Stationery Checklist
Here’s a simple checklist to ensure no detail is overlooked:
Pre-Wedding Stationery:
Save the Dates
Bridal Shower Invitations
Rehearsal Dinner Invitations
Bachelorette/Bachelor Party Invitations
Bridesmaid Proposal Cards
Wedding Invitation Suite:
Main Invitation + Envelope
RSVP Card + Envelope
Details/Accommodations/Reception/Weekend Events Cards (as needed)
Postage
Day-Of Paper Goods:
Programs
Menus
Table Numbers
Place Cards / Escort Cards
Welcome Sign
Signature Cocktail Signs
Bar Menus
Seating Charts
Wedding Favor Tags
Post-Wedding:
Thank You Notes
Wedding Announcements
Personalized Stationery with New Name/Monogram
Return Address Stamp
Extra Resources to Help You Along the Way
What to Include (and What Not To) in Your Invitations
Every couple’s journey is unique, which is why I take great care to create custom paper goods that reflect your personal story and bring your vision to life. Whether it’s your wedding invitations, day-of signage, or meaningful keepsakes, your stationery is more than paper—it’s part of your love story.
If you’re ready to begin designing your dream wedding stationery, I’d love to work with you! Contact me at madison@madsstudioco.com or visit madsstudioco.com to get started.