Step-By-Step: How To Plan Your Wedding Stationery Timeline

When it comes to wedding planning, stationery often gets left until the last minute — but the truth is, it deserves a spot at the top of your list.

Your stationery sets the tone for your day, gives guests their first impression, and plays a key role in the guest experience. Planning it well means less stress, more intention, and a beautifully cohesive look from start to finish.

Here is your step-by-step guide to planning your wedding stationery timeline — the stress-free way.


Step 1: Book Your Stationer Early (9–12 Months Out)

If you’re dreaming of a custom design, it’s best to book your stationery designer as early as possible — especially if you’re working with someone who offers fully bespoke suites and signage.

Booking early ensures you have time to refine your vision, secure your place in their calendar, and explore paper stocks, embellishments, and design elements without feeling rushed.


Step 2: Design & Send Save-the-Dates (8–12 Months Out)

Once your venue is locked in, it’s time to send out your save the dates — especially if you're having a destination wedding or guests will need to travel - give them more notice.

These don’t need to include all the details, just the essentials: names, date, and location.

Pro tip: This is a great moment to introduce your wedding “branding” — your colours, fonts, or even a subtle motif.


Step 3: Begin Your Invitation Suite (5–6 Months Out)

Your invitation suite includes the main invitation, details, RSVP information, envelopes, and any special touches like an embossing stamp, wax seals or envelope liners.

The design process usually takes a few weeks, followed by printing, assembly, and addressing. Give yourself plenty of time to perfect every piece.


Step 4: Mail Invitations (3-4 Months Before Your Wedding)

Allow time for postage, especially if you have international guests. This is the moment where everything comes together — your invitation lands in their hands and sets the tone for your day.


Step 5: Start Planning Day-Of Stationery (2 Months Out)

Menus, signage, place cards, seating charts, vow booklets — these are the pieces that complete your celebration and help guide your guests throughout the day.

Design these early enough so everything is printed, prepped, and ready to go well before your wedding week.

Bonus: When you plan your stationery timeline properly, you can ensure your entire suite — from save-the-date to seating chart — feels cohesive and intentionally designed.


Step 6: Don’t Forget the Thank You Cards (After the Wedding)

A beautiful final touch. These can be printed in advance with space for handwritten notes, or customised after your wedding with a photo from your day. Aim to send these within 1–3 months post-wedding.


Need help bringing your stationery timeline to life?

At Avenue Studio Co, we guide you through every step — from initial concept to final delivery — to ensure your stationery is beautifully curated and timed to perfection.

Let’s create something meaningful, timeless, and perfectly you.