You're Cordially Invited...
Wedding stationery isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s functional, emotional, and surprisingly influential when it comes to your photography.
From clear timing to cohesive visuals, the way you communicate with guests shapes everything from their arrival to the vibe of your photos. Here's your Canadian-specific guide to timelines, must-haves, and photographer-approved tips.
When to Send Save the Dates in Canada
Local Weddings
Send your save the dates 6–8 months in advance. This gives guests time to block off the date without overwhelming them too early.
Destination or Out-of-Town Weddings
Send save the dates 8–12 months in advance — especially if your wedding is during a holiday weekend or in a remote area.
Planning a Destination Wedding from Canada (Coming Soon)
What to Include
- Couple’s names
- Date
- City and province
- “Formal invitation to follow”
- Wedding website (if it’s live)
Pro Tip: Save the dates are not RSVP tools — they’re simply heads-up notices for travel and scheduling.
When to Send Formal Invitations
Standard Timeline
Send wedding invitations 8–12 weeks before your date.
Send Earlier If:
- Guests are traveling
- Your wedding falls on a long weekend or major holiday
- You need RSVPs early due to vendor deadlines
What to Include
- Full ceremony and reception details
- Venue name and address
- Parking info
- RSVP deadline and instructions
- Dress code
- Wedding website (again — some guests only look now)
Photographer Tip:
“Leaving out ceremony times creates chaos. Guests arrive late, family photos run behind, and the timeline derails. Always include start times.”
The Ultimate Wedding Day Timeline — According to Your Photographer
Optional Inserts That Help Guests (and Photos)
A thoughtful info card or two goes a long way. Consider including:
- A small map or printed directions
- QR code to your wedding website
- Travel and hotel block details
- Welcome party or brunch invitation
- Emergency contact info for day-of questions
These additions prevent confusion and reduce the number of “where is this?” texts on your wedding day.
What Photographers Notice (and Appreciate) About Your Stationary
1. Stationery That Photographs Beautifully
Photographers often style and shoot your full stationery suite as part of your detail photos. The best pieces feature:
- Deckled or textured paper
- Wax seals, ribbon, or calligraphy
- Coordinated colours and fonts
- Extra touches like vintage stamps or floral accents
2. Timeline Clarity
When ceremony or photo timing is missing, it creates ripple effects:
- Guests show up late
- Portraits get rushed
- The timeline falls apart
Include ceremony start time, cocktail hour details, and transportation timing if applicable.
3. Dress Code Transparency
Want a visually cohesive, elevated look in your gallery? Say so. Specify “semi-formal,” “cocktail,” or “black tie optional.” Avoid vague terms like “festive” unless you clarify.
Photographer Insight:
“We love beautiful stationery — but more than that, we love when guests know where to be and what to expect. Clarity keeps your wedding on track.”
Printed vs. Digital Invites: Pros and Cons
Digital
- Budget-friendly and eco-conscious
- Ideal for short turnarounds
- Easy to manage RSVPs and updates
Printed
- Classic and tangible
- Ideal for keepsakes
- Perfect for detail photos
Hybrid Option
Print formal invites, but collect RSVPs online. This approach balances tradition with convenience — and saves on postage.
Planning a Wedding in Canada?
Invites and save the dates are just one piece of the puzzle. Explore these additional guides to help you prepare:
Looking for a photographer who captures more than just portraits?
Browse our list of top Canadian wedding photographers — many highlight flat lays and detail shots that make your stationery part of the story.