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When Should You Order Invitations?

This is usually the first question I’m asked! You're eager to start Wedding or Quinceañera planning!

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If you order too early, there’s a chance of things changing (like the ceremony time or guest list) but if you order too late, you might get hit with a rush charge. There are so many moving parts to planning and sometimes invitations become an afterthought. Because they’re sent 6-8 weeks before the big day, it’s important to start considering them about six months before your event.

FINALIZING DETAILS​

When clients/couples reach out to me, I ask a few questions about their event – the date, the venue, and the overall theme. It’s important to have the big logistics and general vision nailed down before ordering invitations.

Along with then when and where, knowing the who will help get the invitation process started. Having a rough estimate of your guest list is necessary to get your invitation quote. You don’t have to have every name and address when you reach out, but you should have a good idea of the total number. Remember to count one per household, not per guest – or you’ll end up with a lot of extras!

SAVE THE DATES​

Need to send save the date cards to your guests? Save the dates are typically sent 9 to 12 months prior to your event. Destination weddings 12 to 18 months before. The answer to this question can determine when you’ll order and mail your invitations. My suggestion in mailing invitations is 6-9 weeks before the event if you did mail a save the date. If not, no worries – just make sure to send the invitations earlier. Without save the dates, mailing invitations about four months in advance should be safe!

TIMELINE

Here you will find a guide of when you should order and mail your invitations when working with me. Turnaround times for designs may vary. For example, if you’re wanting an artwork and calligraphy for envelopes you might need to start the process about a year in advance. After designing invitations for three years and working with hundreds of couples, I’ve found these timelines to be relatively appropriate!

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