The Essential Wedding Stationery Checklist 2020

The Essential Wedding Stationery Checklist 2020

There is so much to do for the big day.

For many brides, organising a wedding can be one of the most stressful times of their lives. From organising venues to choosing the perfect dress, it can seem like your to do list will never end.

Did you tell the florist Amaryllis or Asters? Did you forget to invite your cousin Susan? What about the seating plan? Where do you begin with wedding stationary? Once you have set the date and chosen your venue, now you need to think about letting the guests know the date you have chosen.

Thankfully, Julie from Elizabeth-Rose Designs is here to help make sure your wedding stationary is taken care of with The Essential Wedding Stationary Checklist for 2020.

Read on, take notes and get inspired!

Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com Liverpool Wirral Stationer
Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Wirral Stationer

1)  Save the dates

Whether this be a simple tag with your wedding date or something more elaborate, a ‘Save the Date’ provides guests with the first glimpse of your wedding. They can be plain or match your theme and colour pallets, and can include a meaningful message from the bride and groom to be.

We recommend sending these at least 12 months in advance for ‘peak’ holiday weddings, or if you’re getting married during the week. To allow guests to make the necessary arrangements, a 12-month period is usually sufficient. For those planning to tie the knot abroad, you might want to give even more notice to allow guests to save up and arrange travel plans.

It is also a nice idea to send special invites at this time to your bridal party–especially flower girls and page boys.

Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Cheshire Stationer
Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Wirral Stationer

2)  Invitations

Your invitations really are the first glimpse of your special day and as such they should reflect your wedding, setting the theme that the guests can expect.

Do you love glitter and bling? Do you have an accent colour or two? Do you want to keep your guests wondering with a simple white or ivory? Would you prefer a more rustic theme?

No matter what you decide, these ideas can all be used in the choice of invites and be incorporated into your invitations.

Invitations should be sent out between 3 and 6 months before your wedding.

Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Wirral Stationer

3)  The Table Plan

The table plan will guide your guests to their allocated tables, saving a lot of confusion and allowing you to choose the best mix of personalities and relationships for each table.

Table plans can come in many different forms, and can be adapted and designed to suit your colour themes of the day. Although they can be framed, unframed table plans are often created on a covered canvas for additional stability, or on mirrors.

4)  Order of Service

An Order of Service is traditionally used for Church Weddings. They essentially allow your guests to see an overview of the services and the running order of each. Introductions for anyone taking part in the service with readings or musical contributions can be included.Orders of Service can contain anything you’d like, including lyrics for the hymns and songs which will be sung during the service.

For venue-based weddings, an Order of the Day is typically used in place of the traditional Order of Service, to keep guests informed of the running order. An Order of the Day can also include other information such as the Menu.

Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Wirral Stationer
Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Wirral Stationer
Rustic-Wedding-Invitation-2 Elizabeth Rose Design www.redeventweddingfayres.com North West Wirral Stationer

5)  Place cards

Although your table plan will direct your guests to the correct table, place cards will tell guests where they should sit. This incredibly important to make sure that your auntie Maureen doesn’t sit next to your third cousin Susan who she dislikes. Place cards are also useful for the reception staff to identify those with specific dietary requirements.

6)  Table Numbers or Names

Table names or numbers are necessary for guests to identify their allocated table. These can be free standing or be held in holders to raise them.

Table names can match your theme and even add a little more of an insight into the lives of the bride and groom, including places you have travelled to or local places of importance, favourite films, or bars of chocolate to name just a few.

7)  Wedding Signs

Signs can be used for all sorts of things and are really useful at weddings. Signs can be used to ask guests not to put photos on social media, or where to sit during the ceremony.

You may be providing slippers or toiletries in the bathrooms at your venue, with signs that let your guests know they are there for them to use. How about a sign for your guest book or wish tree? These can be free standing or put into frames.

8)  Thank You 

Finally, we always need to say thank you–to guests and also to relatives or friends who mean a lot to you or have played a big part in your wedding.

More ideas…

While this checklist certainly isn’t exhaustive, it includes the main things you need to consider when planning the stationary for your wedding.

The truth is, the possibilities are endless! Are there any additional stationary touches you’d like to add to the big day? How about menus for the tables, confetti packets with little poems or quotes for the wall?

One important thing to note is that wedding stationers create from scratch, cutting the card and tying ribbons and getting covered in glitter! We love what we do, and we need time to do it well. It may take longer than you think, so please don’t leave your stationery until the last minute.

About Elizabeth-Rose Designs

Elizabeth-Rose Designs is Wirral’s premier wedding stationery designer. They create beautiful handcrafted bespoke wedding invitations and wedding stationery that is tailored to coincide with the theme of your wedding or event.

Visit Elizabeth Rose designs Website here or contact elizabeth-rosedesigns@hotmail.com today for more information.


You might like…

The 5 reasons why brides can’t get enough of the harp for their wedding day.

The 5 reasons why brides can’t get enough of the harp for their wedding day.

 

Harp at Peckforton Castle, Cheshire.jpg www.redeventweddingfayres.com


The harp is a beautiful and curious instrument. Dating back at least as early as 3000 BC, it’s one of the oldest instruments in the world.

The harp appears as an important symbol in several cultures, possibly due to its powerful effect on the body and the senses. Many mythical creatures have been depicted playing harps, including angels, mermaids, sirens and gods.

Since the thirteenth century, the harp has been Ireland’s national symbol, and has even been adopted by the popular beer, Guinness, which features a harp in its logo.

The harp was once adored by royalty and harpists were required to evoke three emotions from the audience: tears, laughter, and sleep.


Why are harps so popular?

Famous harpists, such as Elias Parish-Alvars–who is considered one of the best harpists of all time–helped to increase the popularity of the instrument in the early 20th century. More recently, popular artists, such as Florence and The Machine, have brought the harp back into the mainstream. 

It’s no surprise then, that the harp is the instrument of choice for countless couples to walk down the aisle to. 

Oona Linnett, an accomplished harpist with over 20 years' experience playing for weddings shares the 5 reasons why brides keep harping on about having a harpist for their wedding day!

1)  Enjoy a sound like no other

With its rich, romantic sound and dramatic visual impact (not to mention how fantastic it looks,) a harp lends a sophisticated and elegant backdrop to your day.

Oona Harpist Samlesbury Hall, Lancashire.jpg www.redeventweddingfayres.com

 

2)  Dial the stress levels down

The harp is inherently soothing and relaxing. This is especially helpful on a day which can be hectic and stressful. A groom recently wrote to thank me, saying he felt quite tense before the ceremony waiting for the bride to arrive, but the harp music really helped him to relax.

 

3)  Metallica meets Bollywood?

It’s versatile! Don’t just think of whooshy sounds, angels and ball gowns. Yes, a good harpist can play traditional wedding classics, but if you’d like a bit of Metallica or the theme from Harry Potter, some Bollywood or your favourite song played on the harp, why not? The harp is infinitely adaptable and has the knack of making any piece of music or song sound like it was written for it!

Royal Nawaab Manchester.jpg

 

4)  No entourage needed

A harp is self-contained. You get the melody and harmony all in one instrument! No need for backing tracks or another musician to provide accompaniment. Also, a good wedding harpist will provide their own amplification if needed.

 

5)  Your day, your rules

A harp can go anywhere (almost!) It can easily be moved from room to room if needed and can follow the guests wherever they are throughout the day. I can even provide a smaller harp if space is tight, and can also play outside if the weather allows. I provide everything I need to do so, including a battery-powered amp.

Abbeywood, Cheshire.jpg

 

Who is Oona?

Oona is an accomplished harpist with over 20 years' experience playing for weddings and functions throughout North West England and North Wales. She provides music for the ceremony, drinks reception and wedding breakfast, and has recently been highly commended in the 'Best Wedding Ceremony Act' (North England) category at the Event Entertainment Awards 2019. 

To explore how Oona’s music can enhance your day, view her repertoire, listen to sound clips and much more, visit her website now! https://www.oonalinnett.com/

Oona Harp blog Isla Gladstone, Liverpool.jpg www.redeventweddingfayres.com

You might like….

The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment

The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment

From fire breathers to magicians and living statues, there are more wedding entertainment options than ever!

Couples are constantly searching for new ways to entertain their wedding guests and create the perfect memories of their big day.

We’ve rounded up some of the most popular wedding entertainment ideas, to give you some inspiration for your big day. Something missing from our list? Let us know by commenting on our Facebook post here!

Magicians

Keeping guests entertained between breaks is essential. Magicians have been entertaining at weddings for hundreds of years and they’re still just as popular now. Magic tricks are perfect for during the reception, waiting for photos to be taken and entertaining guests throughout the entire day.

The Red Events team recommends Kevin Jay Magician, a talented magician that incorporates comedy and even hypnotism into his magic tricks. Card tricks, disappearing acts and sleight-of-hand wonders never fail to entertain wedding guests and add an extra bit of magic to the day.

julius-drost-1539886-unsplash.jpg

Classical Music

For those looking to add a classical touch to their big day, classical music will never fail to hit the right note with guests. Stunning string quartets, like the Serenata String Quartet, and heartwarming harpists, like Maxine Moline-Rose and the Melandra Duo, are popular choices for elegant wedding entertainment.

Those wanting to make sure the soundtrack to their wedding day will never sound out of style opt for classical music–and it’s not just Pachelbel's Cannon being played. We see many couples that request their favourite contemporary song to be delivered by classical guitarists, like the incredibly talented Mat Lomas, to add a personalised touch to their ceremony.

Hire Acts and Fire breathers

Simply perfect for outdoor, tipi or garden style weddings, the choice here will definitely turn the heat up at your wedding!! Think outside the box!  Unique selections include roller skaters/living tables/red carpet ladies/living statues/dancers/hosts and hostesses/stilt walkers/circus acts! What ! I’m exhausted !

The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment, Fire Acts www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

Caricaturist

Not only something fun for your guests it is a momentum of your wedding day that your guests can keep and remember forever. Great for between proceeding’s  or during wedding photographs!

Casino Table

A perfect ice breaker to keep guests mingling and entertained is a casino table, like Sapphire Occasions, with full-sized casino tables and professional croupiers.

Glitter Bar

One of the biggest trends we’ve seen this year is the popularity of makeup, glitter & tattoo bars, like Coco Vintage, where brides and guests can get glittered up for evening celebrations.

The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment, Glitter Bar www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

Animals

Animals are becoming very popular additions to wedding ceremonies again. Animal lovers across England cannot resist including their pet dog, cat (and even horses!) in their celebrations, with some even bringing their animals down the aisle with them!

Dog owners are spending hours training their canine friends to be the official ring bearer of their wedding. Even cat-loving guests can’t help but delight in adorable dogs playing such an important role in the ceremonies.

For those without pets, you can even hire animals for your wedding day. Jessie’s Miniature Shetland horses are extremely popular with kids and adults alike and make for the most beautiful wedding photos.

The Hottest Trends in Wedding Entertainment Animals www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

Outdoor games

While we can’t always guarantee good weather–even in the great British summer–outdoor games are becoming very popular ways to create memorable experiences on the big day.

Wedding guests are going crazy for giant snakes and ladders, croquet, horse shoe throw, giant Jenga and even tug-of-war games enjoyed outside. Events Hire companies like Glamour Events Hire even specialise in Lawn Games to help create the perfect outdoor entertainment on wedding days.

If the rain comes falling on the day, many games can easily be played indoors to get guests of all ages mingling and having fun. Retro Arcade games such as Pakman, Donkey Kong and Pinpong can all be enjoyed indoors. If all else fails, add some sparkle to your big day with a firework show that guests can enjoy from inside or outside.

Live bands and music

Whether it’s a solo singer, duo or a 12-piece brass band, live bands and music are the ultimate way to get your wedding party going. Guests can dance to live jazz, rock and roll or even a tribute act of your favourite idol or band.

Live music sets the mood for celebrations in the day and the night. Live acts like Blue Lion Band, The Pedal Tones and Lee Gordon are extremely popular acts in the North West that can really get the party started at weddings. Sets can be tailored to your personal choices, and guests will love the unique atmosphere that only quality, live music can create!

Photo booth or magic mirrors

It’s obvious why photo booths and magic mirrors are hugely popular at weddings! These beautiful and hilarious pictures are incredibly fun and make perfect treasured keepsakes for you and your guests.

Companies like the Booth Tube even bring props to help make your photos unforgettable. Guests love the talking point, and it’s a great way to get your guests mingling with each other.

The Hottest Trend in Wedding Entertainment www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

For the Kids

An important thing to keep in mind when planning the entertainment for your wedding is to keep any young kids entertained. Failing to keep the little ones sufficiently entertained can lead to unhappy parents. Fun-filled goodie bags or a play area makes it easy to put a smile on kids’ faces.

You can also hire wedding nannies who will keep your kids entertained with arts, crafts and games. Companies like Squib & Squidge help to take care of kids and make sure all your guests–no matter how old–will enjoy your wedding day!


You might like….

Wedding Hairstyles You Need For Your Wedding Day!!

Wedding Hairstyles You Need For Wedding Day!

From Dutch Crown Braids to Boho Waves, the range of hairstyles to choose from can have brides pulling out their hair! There is also so much to consider when choosing your perfect style, from weather to accessories - it’s difficult to know where to start!

To help, bridal hairstylist Jenny Dold from Pinned By Jenny is here to share the top wedding hairstyles you need for the perfect 2019 wedding!

Top Hairstyles For 2019 & 2020

There are some absolutely beautiful trends emerging for 2019/20 that brides are getting super excited about! Here are the top 4 trends that you need to watch for your 2019/20 wedding!

Romantic soft updos 

7C85BBBF-A057-4B6B-8A8E-FE1589ED148C.jpeg
3AFF06F2-EB2A-4A83-95CD-EB136F0F4001.jpeg

The classic updo is the ultimate in bridal chic. Weave in some delicate flowers for a natural and girly finish.


Plaits 

Pinned by Jenny Plats.jpg
LEah The Wedding Rooms Pinned by Jenny Hannah Carson T90_5832.jpg

Plaits will never go out of style, but brides are in love with this style for 2019. This style allows you to take your hair down after the reception and enjoy gorgeous waves for your party or while you're on your way to the honeymoon the next day.


Loose waves 

Pinned by Jenny 2.jpg

Steal the red carpet look with loose waves, which are favourites of celebrities including Eva Longoria.


Half up, half down 

297A7EF2-7FAF-4A36-AEF8-A1707105FEEC.jpeg

Amy Schumer made the world swoon with her hair half up, half down for her big day! This creates an elegant but relaxed bridal look.


808C3D71-DEB0-4E80-BB0A-DEE053CA3963.jpeg

About Pinned by Jenny

Pinned by Jennie is North West’s leading freelance hairdresser. Jenny specialises in wedding and event hair. Contact Jenny now:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PinnedbyJenny

Phone: 07850662610





You might like…










5 Expert Tips For Choosing Your Wedding Colour Scheme

Deciding on the perfect colour scheme for one of the most important days of your life can be quite overwhelming! These are pictures and memories you will treasure forever. To help, Vikki from Vikki Rose Wedding & Events Styling has put together some colour schemes and mood boards to give you inspiration for your big day.

Read more

Why is wedding stationery important for your big day?

Choosing the right wedding stationery for your big day can sometimes be daunting, as there are lots of decisions to be made. Pearl Vine Print explains why wedding stationery is so important for your big day!

The main decision to be made are; what style am I going for - traditional or modern? What colour scheme do I want? What exactly do I need? A lot of couples don't realise at first how many items there are available to give the perfect finishing touches. As a stationery designer, I can help you use wedding stationary to make your big day as perfect as you always imagined it to be.

One of the first things to think about

One of the first decisions for a newly-engaged couple is to decide on the date. Once the date has been decided, you usually want to let your nearest and dearest know with a ‘Save the Date’. This is so important as it gets the guests excited as they can start to plan for your wedding, and also gives your guests their first keepsake of your wedding day. More importantly, it the first chance to set the theme of your wedding. There are digital options but a printed one will always be more special - there is something beautiful about receiving a beautifully designed Save the Date that you can keep forever.

Why is wedding stationery important for your big day? Pearl Vine Print https://www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

It covers so many parts of your wedding journey

Apart from the Save the Date, there are so many other things to consider. Everything from the lead up to the wedding; invites, RSVPs - to the day itself; arriving at the venue, the Order of Service, welcome signage, Order of Events, signs for guest book tables, menus, name place cards, seating plans - the list goes on! There's nothing more exciting for me than a bride who has lots of ideas as the possibilities are truly endless! Budget will always be considered, so all ideas are achievable - no idea is too crazy!

It's a keepsake for many

I found personally that on my wedding day, there were so many comments made on a number of things. There were comments on the order of events which everybody loves to see to give them an idea of what was going on throughout the day. There were also the name place cards which the majority of guests kept as it was another special memoir of our wedding. Even with to the menus, guests wanted to remind themselves of the food options which is nice to have. If the couple go for individual menus then that's another thing guests can keep.

Why is wedding stationery important for your big day? Pearl Vine Print https://www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

How do I decide exactly what I need?

Every couple is different and that's great for me as one day I can be designing a bohemian-style, floral invite and the next day a foiled, wax-seal invite. It depends on the venue, the couple's style and even the season when they are getting married. I always like to discuss with the couple if they have any ideas in mind and then take it from there, as most usually know what they'd like. I usually start with Save the Dates or invitations and then nearer the time they might want to look at their on-the-day items. I have house collections but offer a bespoke service for those who have a clearer idea of something specific they'd like me to design.

Why is wedding stationery important for your big day? Pearl Vine Print https://www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blog

Finishing touches

The great thing with all of my collections being customisable is that there are luxury extras which can be done as a little add on. Wax seals can be customisable too and come in an array of colours. There's also vellum wraps, monograms (an emblem of the couple's initials - like a logo for their big day) and envelope liners to send out any stationery. There really are so many options and each decision is so important!

I think the key thing to remember is that everything can be done within reason and within budget. I also offer foiling as an option too for those who love a touch of luxury as much as I do. If you'd like to find out a bit more or would like to ask any questions about finding the stationery for you, please send me a message over on my website at www.pearlvineprint.com.



You might like…

The 5 Trends Brides Can’t Get Enough

Every bride wants her makeup to be perfect for her big day, but it can be difficult to keep on top of bridal trends to make sure your makeup is on point. You may hear a range of different and sometimes even contradictory tips and even if you do finally get your head around it, how do you know if these “trends” will still be trendy by the time your wedding day actually comes around? 

Thankfully, makeup expert Natalie Hehir from Makeup by Nat is here to give you the most recent wedding trends that brides can’t get enough of.

  Top Trends

Make up by Nats Bridal Blog Berry Lips www.redeventweddingfayres.com.jpg

Berry Lips

Bye bye nude! This year is all about making bold statements with berry coloured lips. Celebs can’t get enough of the pretty but striking confidence that berry lips radiate. It’s the perfect colour to add a feminine palette to your makeup. Finish berry lips with more subtle blusher in pastel colours for the perfect combination.


Make up by Nats Bridal Blog dewy highlighter www.redeventweddingfayres.com.jpg

Dewy Highlight

Ever wondered how celebrities get that beautiful and healthy glisten, without ever breaking into a sweat? Dewy highlights give you the catwalk glow while you walk down the aisle. Make sure you use creams rather powder to highlight and give a natural glow.


Make up by Nats Bridal Blog full lashes www.redeventweddingfayres.com.jpg

Full Lashes

Let’s be honest, you may not get a lot of beauty sleep the night before your wedding day. All the planning, drinking, nerves - and even some tears - can result in a tired bride. Fluffy strip lashes can give picture-perfect brides the ideal frame for the eyes and draw attention away from any bags under the eye area. Quality is important here to give a high-end appearance.


Make up by Nats Bridal Blog pink eyeshadow www.redeventweddingfayres.com.png

Pink and Mauve Eyeshadow

One of the biggest trends at Liverpool Fashion week were pink and mauve eyeshadow. These shades have recently been making an appearance in bridal makeup and are the industry’s must have for 2019! For best results, apply a neutral base coat, then use a shade of mauve in the crease. To complete the look, use a highlighter just above the crease and in the inner corner of the eyes to apply the pink shades.

 


How To Get The Perfect Look

So now you know the trends. What next? Here are Nat’s top techniques on how to achieve perfect the look.

  1. Eyes first. Beginning with eye makeup first makes it easier to clean up any fallout before applying your base.

  2. Prime your skin. Perfect makeup looks best on good skin, so it’s vital to prepare the skin beforehand. I recommend beginning as soon as possible to make sure your skin is healthy and glowing for the big day.

  3. Good lighting is paramount. Many hotels have poor lighting which makes it harder to get the makeup just right. Check the room beforehand and use a ring light where possible.

  4. Best for last. The bride’s makeup should be applied after the bridal party to ensure it’s fresh and perfect. A good makeup artist should always allow plenty of time for the bride and then touch ups on the bridal party if necessary.

Make up by Nats blog www.redeventweddingfayres.com

 Special Red Events Offer

Courtesy of Makeup by Nat’s, all brides get 20% off their makeup trials. Just mention Red Events when booking with Nat to get your discount.

About Makeup by Nat

Makeup by Nat is North West’s leading makeup expert, specialising in bridal and special occasions. Nat is a freelance makeup artist with over 12 years of experience with MAC and Charlotte Tilbury. Contact Nat now:

Facebook | Phone: 07555270287 | Email: nataliehehir21@hotmail.com


You might like…

The 7 Bridal Hair Mistakes To Avoid

Wedding Hairstyles You Need For 2019 pinned by Jenny blog www.redeventweddingfayres.com/blogging/The-7-Bridal-Hair-Mistakes-To-Avoid-for-2019

The 7 Bridal Hair Mistakes To Avoid.

It’s every bride’s worst nightmare. The big day comes along, your dress is perfect, the guests are here, everything is going smoothly, but your hair just isn’t quite right.

Bridal hairstylist Jenny Dold from Pinned By Jenny is here to share the 7 most common bridal hair mistakes to avoid!

Not Doing A Hair Trial

A trial is a must-have to make sure we choose the right style for you and your bridesmaids. This also allows the morning to run as smoothly as possible.

Not Consulting The Weather

What’s the weather going to be like? Some styles can depend on the weather. For example if it’s raining and windy I would recommend to go for an updo instead of the hair being down. This will stay in all day and you won’t need to worry about the weather. 

Not Considering The Dress

It seems so obvious, but it’s so common for brides-to-be to choose a hairstyle without thinking about complimenting the dress. For example a vintage style dress might suit classic Hollywood waves finished of with a headband.

Forgetting Accessories

As a hairstylist I always recommend hair accessories for the bride, bridesmaid and flower girls. This is a great way to get that extra special look for your big day and finishes of the look perfectly. Fresh flowers give a lovely finish, you can ask your florist to prepare them for on the day. 

Not Knowing Your Hair Type

If you have short or fine hair or just want a fuller look, hair extensions are a great way to add length and volume. Your hairstylist can help you choose the best look for your hair type if you’re unsure.

Not Preparing

I recommend my clients to have a fresh colour a week before your wedding day to allow the colour to settle nicely. Depending on the style and your hair type I always recommend to wash your hair the day before. A professional blow dry the day before is a great way to to get that extra shine for the perfect finish. 

Not Getting Inspiration

Don’t underestimate the power of inspiration. Consult Pinterest, Instagram and bridal magazines to help get a better idea of the look you want to create. Giving examples to your hairstylist can help to achieve the style you want.

Pinned by Jenny

Pinned by Jenny

About Pinned by Jenny

Pinned by Jenny is North West’s leading freelance hairdresser. Jenny specialises in wedding and event hair. Contact Jenny now:

Facebook

Phone: 07850662610

Email: jenniferldold@hotmail.com



You might like…