I’m commonly asked what a reception card is, followed by “Do I even need it?” The majority of the time, my answer depends on your specific wedding. Is your ceremony and reception being held at the same location? Other common questions, like, “Do I need a belly band?” boil down to personal preference.

To help you answer all of your questions, I’ve put together a comprehensive stationery guide. We’re kick starting our Stationery Guide week with a free download for you. Over the next week, we will review the most common stationery components, the ins and outs of your invitations, and discuss printing methods.

Today, we will begin with reviewing the most common stationery components and help you determine what pieces you’ll need to create the ultimate wedding package.

Save the Date
What is it?  The first official announcement of your wedding date, letting guests know that they’re invited and to “Save the Date”.   This announcement can be less information than your invitation and can include a photo.  Ideally, your save the date announcement would coordinate with your wedding style and color palette.
Do I need it? It’s a good idea to send an announcement if your wedding falls on a holiday or if you’re having a destination wedding.  It gives your guests time to make their travel and hotel arrangements.

Formal Wedding Invitation
What is it?  Your wedding invitation is the single most important piece of your stationery suite.  It tells your guests important details about your wedding date and sets the tone for your event.
Do I need it? Yes!  ALWAYS!

Response Card
What is it?  A response card accompanies your invitation.  Guests will fill out this card and mail it back to you to let you know if they can or cannot attend your wedding festivities.
Do I need it? Absolutely!  Your response card helps you finalize your guest list, making it a very important component in your invitation suite.

Directions Card or Map
What is it?  Lets your guests know the directions to your wedding ceremony location and/or to your reception site.
Do I need it? It’s certainly is a courtesy!  Are your guests familiar with the area?  Directions cards are especially helpful to out of town guests.

Accommodations Card
What is it?  This card will let your guests know where you’ve blocked off hotel rooms at a discounted rate.  It will help them make travel and hotel arrangements for your wedding.
Do I need it? This card is optional, but very helpful for out of town guests.  You can call hotels ahead of time and book a block of rooms at a discounted rate.

Belly Band
What is it?  A Belly Band is a paper embellishment that wraps around your invitation.  It’s meant to hold all of your stationery items in place.
Do I need it? Nope, but they are especially helpful if you have multiple inserts, as they help hold each item into place.

Menu
What is it?  A card that gives a detailed description of the food being served at your reception.
Do I need it? It’s a nice touch for your guests, especially if you’re having a buffet or a family style dinner.

Wedding Program
What is it?  Programs help your guests follow your wedding ceremony.  They’re particularly helpful if your wedding includes cultural or religious traditions.
Do I need it? Programs are recommended when you’re having a religious ceremony or are including cultural traditions.

Escort Card or Place Card
What is it?  Escort Cards tell your guests which table they will be seated at your reception.   Place cards tell your guests which seat at the table they’ll be sitting at.
Do I need it? Yes, unless your guests can choose to sit at any table they want.

Download our comprehensive Wedding Stationery Components Guide today!

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