JA.M SCRIPTS Knows INVITATIONS

by Jeri-Anne McKeon, Owner & Designer of JA.M Scripts

You're Invited...
Well…technically you're not but someone has to be. After all, there is a wedding to attend and you have to get them there somehow.  Whether you're planning a small, intimate affair or “My Big Fat Greek…” invitations are going to be necessary. Unless you're reading this with your fiancé on a plane to Vegas, then all you really need is a witness.

Even though your mother, sister, best friend, not-so-much best friend, co-workers and hairdresser have already started spreading the word, the invitation in the mailbox is the true announcement of what is to come. It should reflect your style, your personality, a peak inside the big day.  Invitations are your show-opener…make it remarkable, show them what's to come.

All the little things.. .
During the months of planning you'll be so focused on getting the “big things” taken care of; the church, reception location, photographer, DJ, back-up dancers… it will be easy to forget “the little things.” Coordinating engagement announcements, save-the-dates, invitations, programs, placecards, table number cards and thank you cards with corresponding colors, papers and fonts is a lovely way to pull everything together. Don't be fooled, the “little things” do get noticed.

What do I need?
Wedding invitations typically include:

   • The invitation with outer envelope (I personally think inner envelopes aren't necessary).

   • A response card and stamped response envelope.

   • Insert with reception information (optional).

   • Insert with accommodations information and  directions (optional).

   * Reception, accommodations and directions can also be combined into one insert.

Ok…When do I this?
8 – 12+ months

• Begin looking at invitation designs that complement your style. If you're planning on sending a save-the-date or wedding announcement, contact a designer to begin working on ideas.

• Start the tedious process of gathering the names and addresses of your guests (save time by verifying the correct spelling as you go, assume nothing). Keeping this list in some electronic format (an Excel spreadsheet works best) will keep you organized and will come in handy along the way.

• As soon as you've set your wedding date, save-the-date announcements can be sent.

6 – 8 months

• Contact a designer (if you haven't already for the above) to start discussing invitation options. This gives plenty of time to look at different ideas and put together sample designs.

• Finalize invite list and addresses. Forward to your designer for envelope printing.

8 – 10 weeks

• Invitations go out…phew. Breathe.

• Begin thinking about the text for your ceremony programs. Order of events? Parents? Attendants? Music? Readings? Readers? So many options…

4 – 6 weeks

• Replies should start coming in (the RSVP date is typically 3–4 weeks prior). Keep track of your attendance numbers on your trusty spreadsheet. Add a column for entrée selections if necessary.

• As replies come in, start thinking about table seating.  There is only so much you can do until all replies are in, but a jump-start never hurt.  Add table numbers to your spreadsheet.

• Finalize program text and design so printing can begin.

Final 3 weeks

• If your designer is doing your placecards or seating chart, forward names and table numbers so printing can begin.

• Arrange pick-up or delivery of all pieces.

Post-Wedding

• Although it's acceptable to send thank you cards up to three months after the wedding, its best to do it within 2-3 weeks of returning from your honeymoon.

Just remember, this is supposed to be a pleasant experience. Try to take it as it comes and enjoy planning your wedding. You only get to do it once.