Order invitations
First impressions matter. Make yours unforgettable
Your wedding invitation is more than just a date and a time. It’s your guests’ first glimpse into your celebration, setting the tone, style and energy of the big day. Whether you go formal, playful, modern or traditional, the key is making sure your invitations reflect you. The design and print process takes time, especially if you’re going custom. Order your invitations about six months before your wedding, and aim to send them out eight to 10 weeks before the big day (or earlier if you have many out-of-town guests). This gives your guests time to plan and RSVP and it gives you a buffer for delays, mistakes or reprints.
Pro tips
- Proofread everything (twice). Then have someone else do it again.
- Order extras. You’ll want keepsakes plus backups in case of last-minute guests or address mix-ups.
- Coordinate with your wedding website. If you’re including a link, make sure it’s active and updated before mailing anything.
- Confirm postage. Some invitations (especially boxed or oddly sized ones) require extra postage. Take a sample to the post office to be sure.
- Plan for calligraphy or addressing. If you’re hiring a calligrapher or hand-addressing envelopes, build that time into your schedule.
What to include
A traditional wedding invitation suite typically includes:
- The invitation card (who, what, where, when)
- A details or enclosure card (reception info, dress code, travel details)
- RSVP card and pre-stamped return envelope
- Optional extras: maps, weekend itineraries or personalized notes
Make sure your wording is clear, consistent and fits your tone: formal for a black-tie evening affair or casual for a beach wedding or backyard bash.
Use local sources
Before you order online, check out invitation, gift and stationery shops around the Lowcountry. Many carry beautiful paper options and custom printing services. Shopping local lets you feel the textures and colors in person, plus you’ll have an expert guide you through paper weights, envelope styles and finishing touches. Whether you want a classic suite, playful accents or eco-friendly paper, you’ll find options close to home.
Want to do something a little different? These creative ideas help your invitation stand out and double as keepsakes:
Acrylic or wood invitations: Modern and sleek or rustic and earthy, these materials bring serious texture and weight. Bonus: They’re practically indestructible in the mail.
Illustrated maps: Hand-drawn or painted maps that show your venue and favorite local spots are both helpful and beautiful.
Boxed invitations: Elevate the unboxing experience with a mini gift. Think custom cookies, pressed flowers or a tea sachet, tucked in with the invitation suite.
Fabric or vellum wraps: Soft overlays, silk ribbons or translucent printed wraps add a romantic and tactile touch.
Custom monograms or wax seals: Make it official with a signature emblem or initials pressed into wax. It’s traditional with a twist.
Storytelling invites: Tell the story of how you met or include a fun timeline of your relationship milestones. These are especially charming in trifold formats.
Minimalist chic: Clean typography, bold layouts and tonal palettes are perfect for couples who want something timeless and fresh.
Eco-friendly options: Seed paper invitations (guests can plant them!), recycled materials or digital invites with matching printed options are great for sustainability-conscious couples.
