What’s in a Wedding Suite?

As a wedding invitation designer, I’m often thinking back to my own wedding years ago, before I entered the wedding industry. Recently, while going through my son’s closet, I found a box of my extra wedding invitations. A few questions came to mind: Why were these in my son’s closet and why did I pick a design with a tear off RSVP card?!? Well over a decade since my own wedding and through experience, I’ve learned so much more about what can go into a wedding suite to create a lasting impression on guests. Did we have an amazing wedding? Yes! But…honestly, it could have been more memorable with a beautiful wedding suite. Not to mention a linen keepsake memento box that all Heather Paperie couples receive!

Heather and I are often asked about what goes into a wedding suite. Gone are the days when wedding invitations consisted of a single piece of paper tucked into an envelope! Today, wedding invitations are often part of a larger ensemble known as a wedding suite. This invitation suite includes not only the invitation itself but also a variety of additional pieces that enhance and personalize the wedding experience for both the couple and their guests. Heather and I understand the importance of each element in a wedding suite and are here to guide you through the process of crafting an invitation suite that reflects your unique style and vision.

Traditional Wedding Suite Elements

Invitation: The heart of your wedding suite, the invitation serves as the official announcement of your special day. It typically includes essential details such as the date, time, and location of your wedding, as well as the names of the hosts and any important information regarding attire or theme.

Response/Reply Cards and Envelopes: These cards provide a convenient way for guests to RSVP to your invitation and indicate whether they will be attending your wedding. Including pre-addressed and stamped envelopes encourages prompt responses and streamlines the RSVP process. You don’t want to be chasing down guests to see if they’re attending!

Details Card: A details card in a wedding invitation suite is an additional piece of stationery that provides essential information about the wedding day, including directions to venues, accommodation options, dress code, and other logistical information. It ensures that guests have all necessary details to navigate the celebration smoothly.

Mailing Envelope: The outer envelope that holds all the pieces of your wedding suite. This envelope not only protects the contents but also presents the first opportunity to make a lasting impression on your guests. Customized addressing (such as printing and calligraphy) and postage stamps can all contribute to the overall design and set the tone for the event.

Postage: Don’t overlook the importance of postage when assembling your wedding suite. Ensure that each envelope is properly weighed and stamped to guarantee safe and timely delivery. You’ll also want to communicate with USPS postal workers to discuss if your invitations need to be hand-canceled so that it doesn’t go through a machine. 

Additional Customizable Items

Envelope Liner: Adding an envelope liner is one of our favorite ways to add elegance and sophistication to envelopes. This can include custom-designed liners featuring patterns, motifs, or monograms that complement your overall theme and wedding brand. Heather and I love to include custom venue watercolor artwork to create a lasting first impression when guests open your invitation!

Wax Seal: Make a statement with a wax seal featuring your initials, crest, or wedding logo. This timeless embellishment adds a touch of old-world charm and sophistication to your invitations. It’s a classic element that can make a statement when attached to a ribbon around your invitation suite! Talk about building anticipation for YOUR wedding!

Reception Card: Provide guests with additional information about the wedding reception, such as venue details, parking instructions, and meal options. This card ensures that guests are well-informed and prepared for the celebration.

Directions Card: Help guests find their way with a directions card containing clear and concise instructions to the ceremony and reception venues. Including a map or landmarks can further assist guests in navigating unfamiliar locations.

Weekend Event Cards: If your wedding festivities span multiple days or include additional events such as a welcome dinner or post-wedding brunch, consider including separate cards detailing each event’s schedule, location, and any other necessary information.

Accommodations Card: Provide out-of-town guests with recommendations for nearby hotels, transportation options, and booking instructions. This thoughtful gesture ensures that guests feel welcomed and well-cared for throughout their stay.

Wedding suites are usually sent to print around four months before your wedding date. This time frame allows plenty of time for printing, assembly, and addressing, ensuring that your invitations are ready to be sent out in a timely manner. Aim to mail your invitations about twelve weeks before your wedding date to give guests ample time to RSVP and make any necessary arrangements. Setting an RSVP deadline of four to six weeks before the wedding allows you to finalize guest counts, seating arrangements, and other details in a timely manner. Designing a wedding suite requires attention, creativity, and careful planning. From the invitation to the smallest embellishments, each element plays a role in setting the tone for your wedding celebration and conveying your unique style and personality. When you work with us as your designer, you can trust that every aspect of your wedding suite will be expertly coordinated and thoughtfully designed to create a cohesive and memorable ensemble. Ready to bring your vision and unique wedding brand to life? Contact us today to get started on designing your perfect wedding suite. Let’s make your wedding day truly unforgettable!