Planning your wedding involves countless details, and one of the first impressions your guests will have is your wedding invitation suite. A well-crafted suite not only provides essential details but also sets the tone for your big day.
That’s why I’m thrilled to partner with Josie from Ivory Isle Art + Design for this blog post. Josie is a talented watercolor painter and stationery designer who handcrafts art and keepsake stationery couples will cherish forever. She pours her heart into her work, creating designs that reflect the deep connection between couples and their loved ones. Together, we’ve created this guide to ensure your invitation suite is functional, beautiful, and uniquely yours.
Why Your Wedding Invitation Suite Matters
Your invitation suite is more than just paper—it’s a statement about your wedding day. It reflects your unique love story, sets the tone for your event, and gives your guests a glimpse into what to expect. Whether you’re hosting a relaxed outdoor celebration, a chic city soirée, or an elegant ballroom affair, your suite should encapsulate your wedding theme and style.
Josie believes every detail of your suite should be intentional, from the colors to the typography to the textures of the paper. When done thoughtfully, your invitation suite becomes a keepsake for you and your guests.
1. The Invitation Card
The invitation card is the centerpiece of your suite, sharing the essential details of your wedding day. It typically includes:
- Your names
- The date and time of your ceremony
- The venue name and address
The design of your card sets the overall aesthetic of your suite. For example, a lemon bush motif with soft watercolor blues, pinks, and whites might complement a spring garden wedding. If your wedding has a more formal tone, gold calligraphy on elegant textured paper creates a timeless feel.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to customize your invitation with elements that are personal to you—like an illustration of your venue or a meaningful symbol.
2. The Details Card
The details card helps ensure your guests are informed about everything they need to know. This can include:
- Directions and parking information
- Accommodation details and hotel block information
- Dress code or attire suggestions
- Any special instructions or notes
Keeping the details card cohesive with the rest of the suite enhances the overall design. For example, Josie might include a subtle lemon tree design in the corner or use a complementary color palette for a polished look.
Pro Tip: If your wedding includes multiple events, such as a welcome dinner or farewell brunch, list them here for clarity.
3. RSVP Card
The RSVP card is essential for gathering responses from your guests. Include:
- A checkbox for attendance (accepts or regrets)
- A deadline for RSVPs (4–6 weeks before the wedding is standard)
- Meal options, if applicable
Josie loves adding personality to RSVP cards. Consider playful wording like “Can’t Wait to Celebrate” or “Dancing from Afar” to make your guests smile. For a touch of elegance, pair the card with a pre-stamped return envelope that matches your suite.
Pro Tip: If you’re offering online RSVPs, include a QR code or short link to make it easy for guests to respond digitally.
4. Your Wedding Website Information
If you have a wedding website, include a card that directs your guests to the URL. Use this platform to share:
- Travel tips and venue directions
- Day-of timelines
- Registry links
- Fun facts or your love story
Josie suggests coordinating the website design with your suite for a seamless look.
5. The Envelope and Addressing
Your envelope is the first thing your guests will see, so make it count! Consider the following:
- Include the host’s address on the outer envelope for returns in case of delivery issues.
- Handwritten or printed calligraphy for an elegant touch
- Envelope liners with patterns or florals for added charm
Josie’s designs often incorporate custom liners that echo the theme of the suite, such as a lemon tree illustration or floral patterns in coordinating colors.
Pro Tip: Use custom stamps that match your wedding theme for a creative finishing touch.
Optional Additions to Elevate Your Suite
- Save-the-Date Cards: Sent 6–9 months and up to 12 months for destination weddings before your wedding to give guests ample time to plan.
- Day-Of Stationery: Programs, menus, and place cards that match your suite create a cohesive look.
- Personal Touches: Wax seals, vellum wraps, or hand-tied ribbons to tie your suite together.
Why Partner with Ivory Isle Art + Design?
Josie’s passion and creativity shine in every design she creates. Her custom invitation suites are thoughtfully crafted to reflect each couple’s unique story and style. Whether you’re looking for classic elegance or playful charm, Josie’s work ensures your stationery will be unforgettable.
Explore more of Josie’s work at Ivory Isle Art + Design.
Your wedding invitation suite sets the tone for your big day. With expert advice from Ivory Isle Art + Design and Kendra Lauck Photography, you’ll create an invitation suite that’s as timeless and beautiful as your love story. Contact Kendra Today!
