YOUR WEDDING STATIONERY TIMELINE: WHAT TO ORDER AND WHEN

Wedding stationery isn’t just one decision, it’s a series of carefully timed steps which build the experience of your day from the very first impression. From save the dates to table plans, knowing what to order and when, makes the process feel seamless rather than overwhelming.

This timeline breaks down each stage of your wedding stationery, so you can plan ahead. From save the dates to table plans, following a simple timeline will help everything come together smoothly, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the process and ensuring your guests have all the information they need.

Laura Jayne Photographer

Why Your Stationery Timeline Matters

Wedding stationery is more than just invitations. It's the thread that ties your wedding together, creating a beautiful and consistent experience from the moment your guests receive your save the date. Planning ahead means less stress, more time to perfect the details and a smoother experience for everyone involved.

What to Order First: Save the Dates

Once you've booked your venue and chosen your date, it's time to think about save the dates.

Aim to send these 9–12 months before your wedding, especially if you're marrying during peak season or expecting guests to travel.

Katie Hamilton

When to Order Invitations

I advise sending out your invitations around 6 - 9 months before the wedding. This gives your guests plenty of time to RSVP, arrange travel and make plans to celebrate with you.

On the Day Stationery: What You'll Need

As your wedding day approaches, you'll start thinking about the finishing touches. Popular on-the-day stationery includes:

• Welcome sign

• Table plan

• Table names or numbers

• Place names

• Menus

• Small signage

Most couples begin planning these around 3–4 months before the wedding.

Jonny MP Photography

When to Finalise Details

Once your RSVPs are back and confirmed, it's time to finalise guest numbers, the table plan and menu choices. These details are usually confirmed around 8 weeks before the wedding, allowing your personalised stationery to be printed in time.

A Simple Month by Month Overview

9–12 months – Send save the dates

6–9 months – Send your invitations

3–4 months – Plan your on-the-day stationery

Around 8 weeks – Finalise guest numbers, table plan and menus

Memorable Wedding Stationery

At LouPaper, I'm here to guide you through each step, by designing wedding stationery that's as memorable as the day itself. I have a curated collection of wedding stationery designs which can be customised to suit the colour palette and style of your wedding day. Or I can design something truly bespoke to you as a couple.

If you need more inspiration then have a browse of LouPaper on Instagram or Pinterest. Once you know what you're looking for or would like to order, please contact me here.