Wedding Stationery Timeline UK

If you are planning a wedding and feeling unsure about timings, a clear wedding stationery timeline can make everything feel far more manageable. This UK focused guide walks you through when to order and send each piece of stationery, helping you stay organised without rushing or over ordering.

Your Wedding Stationery Timeline at a Glance

Most UK couples follow a similar rhythm when it comes to stationery. While every wedding is different, this timeline works well for the majority of celebrations.

6 to 12 Months Before: Save the Dates

Save the dates are usually the first piece of stationery sent. They are most useful if your wedding falls during peak season, on a bank holiday weekend, or if guests need to travel.

You do not need to send save the dates to everyone. They are typically sent to close family, the wedding party and guests who will need to plan ahead.

3 to 4 Months Before: Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are usually sent 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding date. This gives guests enough notice while keeping details fresh in their minds.

If you have already sent save the dates, invitations can be sent slightly closer to the wedding without issue.

This is also the stage where you finalise wording, layouts and any additional details such as RSVP methods or wedding website information.

Setting Your RSVP Deadline

Most UK couples set their RSVP deadline around 3 to 4 weeks before the wedding. This allows time to confirm numbers with suppliers and plan seating arrangements.

Leaving a clear gap between the RSVP date and the wedding helps avoid last minute stress.

4 to 6 Weeks Before: Planning On the Day Stationery

Once RSVPs begin to come in, you can start planning on the day stationery. This includes items such as:

  • Place cards
  • Table plans
  • Menus
  • Order of service

You do not need to print everything at once, but having designs ready early makes the final weeks much calmer.

1 to 2 Weeks Before: Final Printing

On the day stationery is usually printed one to two weeks before the wedding, once guest numbers are confirmed.

Leaving this too late can feel stressful, especially if changes are needed, so it is best to allow a small buffer where possible.

How Digital RSVPs Affect the Timeline

Digital RSVPs often speed things up. Responses come in more quickly and are easier to manage, which can bring forward decisions around seating plans and menus.

This flexibility is one of the reasons many modern UK couples now choose digital response options.

Adjusting the Timeline for Different Weddings

Some weddings need slightly different timings.

  • Destination weddings often require earlier invitations
  • Small local weddings may not need save the dates
  • Registry office weddings often suit simpler timelines

The key is to plan around your guests rather than following strict rules.

A Calm Approach to Wedding Stationery

Your wedding stationery timeline should support your planning, not add pressure. Clear steps, realistic timings and early decisions make the whole process far more enjoyable.

If you know what is coming next and roughly when, everything else tends to fall into place.

Directional wedding sign reading “Wedding” attached to a stone wall, pointing towards an outdoor venue with greenery in the background.
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Matching Your Invitations to Your Wedding Style

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Once you’ve chosen your wording, selecting an invitation design that complements your tone helps create a cohesive first impression for your guests.

Explore Wedding Invitation Guides and Ideas

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Wedding Invitation FAQs

  • How many wedding invitations should we order?

    You only need one invitation per household or couple, rather than one per guest. It’s a good idea to order a few extra copies to allow for last minute additions or keepsakes.

  • What is the difference between day and evening wedding invitations?

    Day invitations are sent to guests attending the ceremony and wedding breakfast, while evening invitations are for guests invited to join you later for the reception. The wording and timings on each invitation should clearly reflect this.

  • When should wedding invitations be sent in the UK?

    Wedding invitations are typically sent 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding date. Evening invitations can often be sent slightly later, around 6 to 8 weeks before the day.

  • Can wedding invitations be personalised?

    Yes, most wedding invitations can be personalised with your names, wording, dates and venue details. Many couples also choose to personalise design elements such as colours, fonts or layouts to suit their wedding style.

  • What information should be included on a wedding invitation?

    A wedding invitation should include the names of the couple, the date and time, the venue details and RSVP information. Additional details such as dress code or accommodation are often included on an insert card or wedding website.

  • Do we need RSVP cards with our wedding invitations?

    RSVP cards are optional, but they are helpful for managing guest numbers. Some couples choose traditional RSVP cards, while others prefer online RSVPs through a wedding website.

  • Should wedding invitations match the rest of the stationery?

    Many couples choose to coordinate their invitations with the rest of their wedding stationery, including save the dates, order of service booklets and thank you cards, to create a consistent look throughout the day.

  • What style of wedding invitation should we choose?

    The style of your invitation should reflect the overall feel of your wedding. Classic designs suit formal celebrations, while modern or illustrated invitations work well for relaxed, contemporary or destination weddings.

Designed Wedding Invitations, Made Personal

At TavernCreative, we design wedding invitations that balance beautiful design with thoughtful wording. Every invitation is carefully considered to ensure it not only looks beautiful but also communicates the details of your day clearly and confidently. Many couples choose to personalise their wedding invitations to reflect their style, their story and the overall tone of their celebration, creating a first impression that feels both meaningful and memorable.

Written by TavernCreative – UK Wedding Stationery Designers