Why Waiting Until You Have RSVPs to Order Your Wedding Reception Stationery Is a Bad Idea
Why Waiting for RSVPs to Order Wedding Reception Stationery is a Bad Idea: Learn the pitfalls of delaying your wedding stationery order and discover tips to ensure your reception is flawless.
Planning a wedding is a whirlwind of decisions, but one thing you shouldn’t wait on is ordering your wedding reception stationery and products. Many couples think they can hold off until they receive all their RSVPs or finalize tastings and bar lists before placing their order—but this can lead to major stress down the line. Here’s why waiting could be a big mistake and what you should do instead to stay ahead of the game.
It’ll Be Too Late
By the time you have your RSVPs in hand, it’s already too late to start designing and ordering your wedding reception stationery. Why? Custom stationery design, production, and shipping take time—anywhere from 2 - 6 weeks, to be exact. This doesn’t even factor in potential delays with vendors or shipping. If you’re waiting until the last minute, you’re risking missing out on crucial pieces for your big day, like menus, signage, and seating charts.
The Hot Tip: Order and Start Design Now, Print Later 🙌
You don’t have to have all the details finalized to begin the design process. Here’s the trick: you can start working on your wedding reception stationery now using placeholder details. I can create the initial designs, and once your final RSVPs and other important details roll in, we’ll do a quick revision. Then, we’ll send it to print. This approach saves time, reduces stress, and ensures everything will be ready in time for your wedding.
Don't Wait for RSVPs, Tastings, or Bar Lists
Many couples delay ordering until they’ve confirmed exact guest numbers, food options, or drink lists. But these details can easily be swapped in later. What’s important is getting the design process started as early as possible. In fact, you should aim to have your wedding reception stationery in hand 1-2 weeks before the big day to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Custom Stationery Takes Time: Order 10-12 Weeks in Advance
When planning your custom stationery, always keep this timeline in mind: order a minimum of 10-12 weeks before your wedding day. This gives us ample time to create something truly special for you, whether it's a custom venue illustration, watercolor florals, or designs that reflect your love story. The more time we have to collaborate, the better your final pieces will be.
Here’s How I Can Help You Get Ahead
I’ll design your first round of art with placeholder details to kickstart the process.
Once your final details are ready, we’ll do an artwork revision to ensure everything’s perfect.
Unsure what style you want? Send me all your inspiration, even your cake and flower ideas—I’ll translate that into a cohesive design that will wow your guests.
Why You Need Reception Stationery
While invitations often take center stage, wedding reception stationery is just as important in pulling together the entire event. Here are some essential reception pieces you shouldn’t overlook:
Signage: Welcome signs, seating charts, and directional signs are not only functional but also set the tone for your wedding day.
Menus: Custom menus add a personal touch to the dining experience. They can match your wedding theme and offer guests a sneak peek of what’s to come.
Table Numbers & Place Cards: These help guests find their seats and can be designed to reflect your overall wedding aesthetic.
Bar Signs: Signature drink menus or “Cheers!” signs are a fun way to guide your guests toward the beverage options.
Each of these items can be designed to match your wedding's vibe, tying the whole day together and adding those finishing touches your guests will remember.
Custom Designs Take Time
Working on a completely custom invitation or stationery design is an intensive process. From initial concepts to final approval, the design process alone can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. During this time, we’ll collaborate closely to bring your vision to life, whether it’s a custom venue illustration, watercolor florals, or unique accents that reflect your love story.
Once your design is finalized, you’ll need to account for printing and shipping time, which varies depending on your location and the print method you choose. For this reason, it’s never too early to start planning. If you’re dreaming of hand-painted, bespoke stationery, the earlier we begin, the smoother everything will go.
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
It’s never too early to start planning your wedding reception stationery. Whether you’re dreaming of personalized menus, custom signage, or day-of details that reflect your love story, I’m here to help. My superpower is turning your inspirations into stunning, cohesive designs that will take your guests’ breath away.
For inquiries or to start planning your bespoke stationery, contact me today! Let’s make your wedding day extra special with custom, one-of-a-kind pieces that your guests will love.