Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, but one of the most enjoyable aspects is selecting your stationery. Every piece of wedding stationery serves a specific purpose, from providing key information to adding personal touches. This checklist will help you navigate through the essential items you need to make your wedding both organised and memorable.
1. Save the Date Cards: Mark the Occasion
Save the Date cards are an early announcement sent to guests to make sure they mark your wedding day in their calendars. These cards are typically sent 6 to 12 months before the wedding, especially if you’re hosting a destination wedding or getting married during peak wedding season.
The purpose of a Save the Date card is simple: it ensures your guests are aware of your wedding date long before they receive the formal invitation. At Tavern Creative we offer gorgeous options with rustic floral designs, perfect for setting a natural, romantic tone. You can even include your own photo, adding a personal touch and getting guests excited for your big day.
2. Wedding Invitations: Set the Tone
The wedding invitation is the most important piece of wedding stationery. It provides guests with all the essential details, such as the date, time, venue, and dress code. Invitations are usually sent out about 2-3 months before the wedding and offer a glimpse into the style and formality of the event.
Tavern Creative’s invitations come with beautifully illustrated venue designs, making your location part of the experience from the start. They also offer folding invitations adorned with illustrations of white roses, perfect for couples who want to include more information, like directions, accommodation, or even an RSVP card. Your invitations set the tone for your wedding, reflecting its theme and helping guests know what to expect.
3. Table Plans: Organise Your Guests
The table plan is a crucial tool for ensuring your reception runs smoothly. Displayed at the entrance of your reception venue, this chart shows each guest where they’ll be seated, preventing confusion and helping avoid any awkward seating mishaps.
Tavern Creative offers table plans in sizes A1 to A4 on 3mm foam board, durable enough to last the night while making a stylish statement. The table plan ensures guests know where to sit, avoiding a chaotic free-for-all. It’s also a great way to reflect your theme—whether you choose a floral design to match your decor or something minimalistic. Personal touches, such as table names inspired by places you’ve travelled together, can make the seating chart even more engaging.
4. Welcome Signs: A Warm First Impression
A welcome sign is the first thing your guests will see when they arrive at your ceremony or reception. It’s an elegant way to greet them and reinforce the theme of your wedding. It usually features the couple’s names, the wedding date, and a warm welcome message.
Tavern Creative offers welcome signs that match the table plan, available in sizes A1 to A4 on a sturdy foam board. Whether you choose a floral design to blend with the rest of your decor or a sleek, modern style, your welcome sign will help set the tone for the day. It also serves as a friendly visual cue to guide your guests to the right place.
5. Place Names: Add a Personal Touch
Place names (or name cards) are placed at each table setting to indicate where each guest will sit. These small but thoughtful cards help avoid confusion and make your guests feel welcomed and valued. They ensure your seating arrangement is respected, while also contributing to the overall aesthetic of the table.
Tavern Creative offers beautiful place names in a variety of styles, from delicate watercolours to minimalist designs, allowing you to match the cards to your wedding theme. Personalised place names add a special touch to each guest’s experience, letting them know you’ve thought of them individually.
6. Menus: A Taste of What’s to Come
Menus are often overlooked, but they play a key role in your reception. They inform guests about the food and drink that will be served, especially if you’re offering a multi-course meal or have different dietary options available. Having a menu at each place setting helps manage expectations, and guests can get excited about the meal ahead.
Tavern Creative offers bespoke custom menus that can be tailored to fit your wedding theme, whether you want something classic and formal or fun and modern. Including elegant descriptions of each dish and beverage adds an air of sophistication to your reception and gives guests something to look forward to between speeches and dances.
Final Thoughts
Every piece of wedding stationery has a distinct purpose, not just in terms of logistics but also in contributing to the overall aesthetic of your day. From the first Save the Date card to the final menu, each item is a reflection of your wedding theme and personal style. Take the time to choose designs that resonate with you as a couple, and enjoy the process of creating a day that’s organised, stylish, and uniquely yours. Happy planning!
