From understanding the different printing techniques to knowing which day-of details you want to include, our comprehensive stationery vocabulary guide will ensure you know what you’re talking about.
There is more to wedding stationery than just the save-the-date and invitations. As you decide what elements you want, you may be hit with unknown verbiage (wth is a belly band?!).
That’s why we’re here. To help you navigate the world of wedding stationery, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the essential wedding stationery vocabulary you need to know as you work with your stationer or order from your favorite stationery site.
💌 New to wedding stationery? Start with our Ultimate Wedding Stationery Guide for a full roadmap from save-the-dates through thank-you notes.
The Invitation Suite (And What’s Inside It)
What is a wedding invitation suite? An invitation suite refers to the complete package of wedding invitations and accompanying cards, such as RSVP cards, information cards, and map cards.
What is an RSVP card? A RSVP (pulled from the French “Répondez s’il vous plaît”) card is included with the wedding invitation, allowing guests to confirm their attendance or decline the invitation. It typically includes a space for the guest’s name and response.
What is an information card? Information cards provide additional details about the wedding, such as directions to the venue, accommodations, and wedding website information.
What is a map card? A map card provides a visual representation of the wedding venue’s location and nearby landmarks to help guests find their way.
What is a save-the-date card? Save-the-date cards are sent well in advance of the wedding to inform guests of the date, allowing them to plan accordingly before receiving the formal invitation.
Printing & Paper Techniques
What is embossing? Embossing is a technique that raises a design or text on the paper’s surface by applying heat and pressure to a metal die.
What is letterpress printing? Letterpress is a traditional printing method that involves pressing ink into paper using raised metal type or plates, creating a tactile and elegant effect.
What is foil stamping? Foil stamping adds a metallic or colored foil to paper, creating a luxurious and shiny finish often used for monograms or decorative elements.
What is blind embossing? Blind embossing is a technique that raises a design or text on paper without adding color or foil, creating a subtle and elegant texture.
What is a deckled edge? Deckled edges are the rough, uneven edges of handmade paper, creating a natural and rustic look for wedding invitations.
What is vellum paper? Vellum is a translucent paper often used for overlays or inserts in wedding invitations to create a layered and ethereal effect.
What is a Z-fold invitation? Z-fold invitations feature a unique folded design, creating an interesting and dynamic presentation for wedding invitations.
✨ Want to see these techniques in action? Browse our wedding stationery inspiration for real-wedding examples.
Decorative Touches
What are envelope liners? Envelope liners are decorative inserts placed inside the envelope to add a pop of color or design when the envelope is opened.
What is a belly band? Belly bands are decorative paper bands that wrap around the invitation suite, holding all the cards together and adding an elegant touch.
What is a wax seal? Wax seals are decorative elements that can be used to seal the wedding invitation envelope. They often feature intricate designs or monograms.
What is envelope addressing? Envelope addressing includes the recipient’s name and address on the outer envelope. It can be done with calligraphy, custom labels, or printed directly on the envelope.
Design Elements
What is calligraphy? Calligraphy is the art of decorative handwriting, often used for addressing envelopes, creating elegant place cards, and adding a personal touch to wedding stationery.
What is a monogram? A monogram is a personalized design consisting of the couple’s initials or names, often used as a prominent element in wedding stationery.
What is a watercolor illustration? Watercolor illustrations are hand-painted designs that add a unique and artistic element to wedding invitations and other stationery.
What is a wedding color palette? The color palette refers to the chosen colors that unify the wedding stationery, from the invitations to the place cards, creating a cohesive look.
What is typography? Typography refers to the style and arrangement of fonts used in wedding stationery, influencing the overall aesthetic.
Day-Of Stationery
What are thank-you cards? Thank-you cards are sent to guests after the wedding to express gratitude for their attendance and any gifts they may have given.
What are escort cards? Escort cards are used to guide guests to their assigned tables at the reception. They often include the guest’s name and table number.
What are place cards? Place cards are similar to escort cards but are placed at each guest’s seat to indicate their specific place at the table.
What are menu cards? Menu cards are placed on dining tables to inform guests of the meal options and courses for the reception.
What is a ceremony program? Ceremony programs are handed out to guests attending the wedding ceremony. They outline the order of events, introduce the wedding party, and may include personal touches.
What is an order of service? The order of service is a booklet or card that outlines the entire wedding ceremony, from the processional to the recessional.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between escort cards and place cards?
Escort cards tell guests which table they’re sitting at, usually displayed at the reception entrance. Place cards tell guests where at the table to sit, set at each individual seat. Many weddings use both, but you can absolutely get away with just one.
When should save-the-dates go out versus invitations?
Save-the-dates should go out 6–8 months before the wedding (8–12 months for destination weddings). Formal invitations follow about 6–8 weeks before the big day.
Do I really need an RSVP card, or can guests just use my website?
A wedding website RSVP is totally acceptable and increasingly common. If you’re leaning digital, skip the RSVP card and direct guests to your site via the information card. If you love the classic paper reply, keep it.
What’s the most popular wedding invitation printing technique?
Digital (flat) printing is the most affordable and common, while letterpress and foil stamping are the most-requested luxury finishes. Embossing and blind embossing are having a moment for minimalist, texture-forward couples.
What’s included in a standard wedding invitation suite?
At minimum: the main invitation and an RSVP card. Most suites also include an information card (hotel blocks, wedding website, weekend schedule). Map cards, reception cards, and belly bands are optional extras.
💌 Ready to put this vocabulary to work? Our Ultimate Wedding Stationery Guide walks you through timelines, etiquette, budgets, and vendor selection, everything you need from save-the-date to thank-you note.
