Paper has humble origins. Plant fibers and water, mashed into a pulp which is then strained, rolled and left to dry. For hundreds of years humans have followed this same practice. As with most wedding-related items, paper takes on a whole new importance once incorporated into the planning process. Craftsmen transform simple pulps into sumptuous linen-blend invitations. Textured card stock serves as table numbers and place cards. Intricate calligraphy dictates menu items on the buffet.

With all the paper decisions to be made, brides may wonder if they must choose the full suite of offerings from the stationer. The level of formality often helps one decide how far they should go. Smaller garden receptions may only require casual invitations and perhaps a one page program. Extravagant celebrations with a guest line in the triple digits splurge on everything from engraved invitations to reply cards to menus and more. Once a location and style have been selected, keep this in mind during a first meeting with papery vendors.

Save the Date

In the past brides only sent save the dates for destination or holiday weddings, when invited guests must have plenty of time to plan for travel. Although in recent years it has become en vogue to send save the dates no matter the date or location, do not feel as if they are mandatory if a local wedding has been planned. Any hotel information can be disseminated along with the invitation if needed.

Invitation

Given the rise of online retailers, once expensive engravers have been forced to offer more reasonable options. This is the one selection that all brides should choose to purchase; it can be kept as a memento even after the smallest of weddings. Beautiful selections can be found at all price points: engraving (paper is pressed into an engraved, inked metal plate) remains the priciest process, followed by letterpress (inked plates with raised letters are pressed onto the paper) then thermography (raised print technique). Quality of paper also increases the price, with linen- or cotton-blends topping the list.

Reply card

Reply cards can be omitted for brides who wish to have personalized notes mailed from the invited guests. Along with the added cost of the cards and envelopes, stamps must be purchased as well. However, be advised that along with the popularity of reply cards, the knowledge of how to respond when one is not included has diminished.

Map or reception card

If the reception will take place at a location different from the ceremony, this can either be listed at the bottom of the invitation or on a separate card. An additional card may be advisable with confusing directions, special parking requirements, or to detail a cocktail hour before the actual reception begins.

Programs

Programs offer many functions besides the order of the ceremony. Guests can read names for the wedding party, descriptions of special religious traditions, titles of the music performed, remembrances for departed family members, the "at home" address for the bride and groom, and reception directions (should anyone have left their reception cards at home). Even a simple one-sided card stock can help to include guests in the ceremony.

Table numbers and place cards

More casual events or heavy hors d'oeuvre receptions typically do not require assigned seating; guests do not need to search for a place to sit while holding a glass and plate. Formal affairs serving a full dinner usually do offer assigned seating to provide a quick transition from the cocktail hour. Table numbers (or meaningful names, for the creative types) can be placed in tall holders so guests can easily read them. Place cards may be found on tables at the entrance to the venue, in alphabetical order for ease.

Coasters, matchbooks, napkins

A great way to further personalize a reception comes with coasters, matchbooks, and paper or cotton napkins. Many brides choose this time to present their new monogram for the first time. Or consider imprinting a wedding motif or theme. If using sturdy materials, these can double as party favors. Consider thick fiberboard for the coasters. Box instead of book matches hold up to repeated use. Inexpensive cotton napkins are heightened when embroidered with a three letter monogram, if budget allows.

Announcements

For the intimate weddings that can not include a large number of guests, some brides opt to have an announcement printed to mail out to all the family and friends not invited. The wording can mirror that of the invitation, with simple edits of "We are proud to announce the marriage of..." or by using the past tense: "Jane Doe and John Doe were married on...".

Thank you cards, note cards, holiday cards

Why not consolidate your time and multitask while ordering wedding materials? With package deals, you may be able to add in note cards with your new monogram that can be used to finish addressing all those thank you notes for the ongoing arrival of wedding gifts. For an extremely well planned bride, you can even order holiday cards with space for a photo of the new bride and groom.

-- Jennifer Mackethan