by Eileen Livers and Monica Bernstein

Q

“I just got my invitations today, and am very embarrassed to say that I don't know how to stuff them. I know how to do the invitation and inner and outer envelopes, but where do the response card and envelope go? Do I put the response card in its envelope? And what the heck are the sheets of tissue they sent me for?” --from iVillager lmccain



A

Dear lmccain,

Don't be embarrassed -- this is an often-asked question. For starters, placing tissue between the layers of your invitation is an optional practice many brides choose to forgo. Originally the tissue was included to keep the invitation's ink from smudging onto the other enclosures, but with today's printing processes it is usually unnecessary.

There are two ways wedding invitations are typically assembled. With folded invitations, you can simply place any inserts inside. More commonly, though, all inserts are placed on top of the invitation in this order: the tissue (optional), the reception card (if it is separate from the invitation), then the stamped response return envelope with the response card laid directly on top (not inside). Any printed hotel information, directions, etc., can go atop this.

When you’re ready to stuff, place the entire stack inside the inner envelope with the text facing up toward the flap. Then place the inner envelope into the outer envelope so that the front of the inner envelope - where the recipient’s name appears -- is visible when the outer envelope is first opened.

Hope this helps!

The Wedding Women

Don’t start stuffing those response cards before you know How to Get an Accurate Headcount.

Looking for more invitation etiquette? Be sure to read Divorce Etiquette: 3 Ways to Write Your Invitations.

Who needs tissue paper when you can make your own invitations? Check out our guide on Do-It-Yourself Wedding Invitations.

Want more advice from the Wedding Women? Ask your own questions on their message board, and see more of their expert advice here.