There’s more to wedding invitations than you might think

Everybody talks about wedding invitations, but what about all the other terms and items that are associated with them. Below are explanations of some of the more common terms and items that you’ll probably encounter while shopping for your invitations.

Seal and send invitations:
This type of invitation is mailed to guests as a single, folded piece (without an envelope), having the respond postcard attached to the invitation by a perforation for easy removal. Since the respond piece is a postcard, you will save on postage for the return mailing. Prices for this product normally include seals along with a printed return address on both the back flap, when initially mailing the invitation, and on the perforated respond postcard.

Announcements:
For those who won’t be invited to your wedding, but you would still like them to know about your marriage, you can mail them an announcement card. They can be printed on the same paper as your invitation but mailed on your wedding day or immediately after with wording that states that your wedding already has taken place.

Reception cards:
If there isn’t enough room on your invitation for listing the details of your reception, or if not all guests will be invited to attend the reception, reception cards can be ordered to match your invitations and will be included as a separate insert. Please keep in mind that this card could possibly add to your mailing costs since postage is based on weight.

Respond cards:
These cards are essential to planning for your dinner or reception, since an accurate guest-attendance count will be needed for food and seating preparations. The respond card, along with its mailing envelope, will be inserted with your invitation. Remember to include a postage stamp on this small envelope, which also will have a mailing address printed on it, so all your guests need to do is fill out the card and mail it back by the date you have printed on it.

Map cards:
These direction cards would be included as a convenience for any guests who might not be familiar with the location of the church or reception.

Printed invitation envelope flaps:
This option of having your return address printed on the outside envelope can save you valuable time and ensure that undeliverable invitations are returned to you. There is a small cost involved, but it also gives an address to those who might not be able to attend but still want to send you a card or gift.

Lined inner envelopes:
For a small charge, you can request that your inner envelopes have a colored lining to add a special touch to your invitation ensemble. Color choices vary depending on the invitation style you choose.

Envelope seals:
These self-adhesive labels add just the right finishing touch. They are available in many styles and are used on your outer envelope, making it look like they are holding the flap down even though it has already been sealed.

Informal notes:
These are used separately from your invitations, but should be included with your original order since they usually are printed on matching paper, and this will help save on shipping costs. They are personalized with either your names or a monogram on the front with the inside blank for writing your thank you notes. Any leftovers can be used long after the wedding for other purposes. Blank mailing envelopes are included with them.