Traditionally, wedding invitations are sent 6 to 12 weeks before the big day. However, the timing can vary depending on the type of wedding you are planning. If you're planning a destination wedding or your date falls during a busy holiday period, it’s best to send invitations up to six months in advance to allow guests ample time to make arrangements. For weddings with minimal travel involved, the traditional timeline remains a good guide.

We recommend ordering your invitations at least a month before you intend to send them. While some designs may not require that long to produce, this time frame allows enough time for the majority of design requirements. Invitations can be ordered as soon as your wedding date, time, and venues are confirmed. If you plan to use a calligrapher to address them, it may take additional time for this process.

A wedding invitation should include the names of the couple, the date, time, and location of the ceremony. If parents are hosting, their names are traditionally included. If the reception is at a separate venue, that address should also be noted. Details such as RSVP instructions, dress code, and any additional information can be included on the main invitation or a separate card.

When deciding how many wedding invitations to order, count by household rather than individual guests – couples and families only require one invitation. It’s wise to err on the side of caution: ordering a few extras at the outset is far more cost-effective than requesting extra copies at a later date. Consider including invitations for guests you would like to invite that you know will not attend, members of the wedding party and close family members, as well as any to keep as mementoes.

A save-the-date card serves as an early announcement, sharing the date and general location of your wedding so guests can add the event to their calendars. It is typically sent 6-12 months in advance and does not require an RSVP. Details such as the exact venue and timings are often confirmed later.

The formal wedding invitation follows closer to the date and provides full information on the ceremony and reception, as well as RSVP instructions for guests to respond accordingly.

Smythson specialises in traditional engraved stationery, where agreed-upon designs are meticulously engraved onto copper plates used for printing. This time-honoured technique creates a distinctive raised ink surface and offers exceptional colour depth and fine detail. Engraved pieces can be identified by the indentation on the reverse – a mark of true craftsmanship that sets them apart from modern methods, which try to replicate it. We combine engraved stationery with a range of traditional craft finishes, such as hand-painted borders, gilt edges or fully tissue-lined envelopes.

Additional wedding stationery, such as reply cards, information sheets, orders of service, and the all-important thank you cards, may be digitally printed to perfectly complement your engraved invitations, creating a coordinated wedding stationery suite.

These bespoke items are available by consultation only. Please contact weddings@smythson.com to discuss your requirements with one of our bespoke stationery consultants.

Smythson does not offer in-house calligraphy or digital envelope addressing services. However, we are happy to provide recommendations for our London-based customers to assist with personalising your invitations.

Our online collection allows you to select materials, ink colours, lettering styles, and craft finishes from our range to produce a customised product.

For a more bespoke experience, such as incorporating your own artwork or creating a unique motif, our salon service offers the fullest customisation. Available at 141-142 Sloane Street in London and by appointment in Manhattan, you’ll collaborate directly with a trained bespoke stationery consultant and our team of typesetters to bring your unique vision to life.

Our online tool guides you step-by-step through the choices required to design your invitation. After submitting your order, a trained typesetter reviews the text, and you will receive a digital proof by email for your approval. You can request changes at this stage. Once the design is finalised, production typically takes around two weeks.

For a more personalised experience, our in-store service offers a consultation with a trained bespoke stationery consultant, where you can view samples and explore ideas. Depending on your design, pricing may be provided during the appointment or via email afterwards. Once your quote is accepted, your order enters the same proofing and production process.

Yes, our bespoke stationery service is available Monday to Saturday at our flagship store, 141-142 Sloane Street. While appointments aren’t essential, we recommend contacting us in advance, especially if you’re travelling to visit us, to ensure a bespoke stationery consultant is available to assist you.

Consultations are also available by appointment in Manhattan. To arrange a visit or speak with a consultant, please contact weddings@smythson.com.

Our online service offers a simple and convenient way to personalise your stationery. While the template is labelled for wedding invitations, the format is flexible and can be adapted for birthdays, anniversaries, or other events.

The in-store experience offers a more tailored and consultative approach, ideal for those planning a full wedding stationery suite or requiring quantities not available online. Working with a bespoke stationery expert offers the opportunity for greater personalisation, creative guidance, and a cohesive approach to your full stationery suite.