Wax Seals, Ribbons and Wraps: How to Accessorise your Invitations
Your wedding or event invitations is more than just a piece of paper - it’s the first impression your guest will have of your big day. It sets the tone, reflects your style and builds anticipation. While the invitation suite itself is important, the finishing touches are what makes it truly unforgettable.
From wax seals and ribbons to wraps and belly bands, accessorising your invitations adds that extra layer of elegance and personality. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right adornments for your stationery suite.
Wax Seals - The Timeless Touch (Treble T)
Why choose wax seals?
Wax seals bring on old world charm and sophistication that never goes out of style. They’re perfect for vintage, romantic, rustic or even modern themes (yes, you can get sleek black or metallic wax!).
Where to use them
Seal your envelopes closed
Secure vellum or paper wraps
Embellish place cards or menus
Design Ideas
Monograms or initials
Florals or botanical patterns
Customs designs (family crest, pet, venue sketch)
Pro Tip: Use self adhesive wax seals for a cleaner, quicker application - no mess, no heat gun needed.
2. Ribbon - Soft , Elegant and Textural
The power of a ribbon
A silk or velvet ribbon can transform a simple invitation into something romantic and tactile. It adds a depth, softness and a handmade quality that guests will love to untie.
Popular Styles
Hand dyed Silk: Ideal for boho, romantic or garden weddings
Velvet: Perfect for fall or winter events
Chiffon: Lightweight and ethereal
Twine or cord: Rustic or minimalist charm
Ways to use ribbons
Tie around your entire suite
Pair with a tag or wax seal
Weave through punched holes in invitation cards
Colour Coordination Tip: Match the ribbon to one of your accent colours or florals for a cohesive palette.
3. Wraps & Belly Band - Keep it all
Why you need a wrap
Wraps and belly bands are both practical and pretty. They hold all the elements of your invitation suite together (invitation card, RSVP, details card) and add a polished finish.
Types of wraps
Vellum: Translucent and modern; works beautifully with wax seals
Paper Wraps: Can be printed with florals, monograms or patterns
Fabric Wraps: A unique, tactile alternative
Belly Bands
These are narrower than wraps and often made of paper or cardstock. They’re minimalist way to tie everything together while leaving a peek at the invite underneath.
Creative Additions
Personalised tags
Gold foiling
Die-cut shapes
4. Layering your elements
The beauty of invitation accessories is that they can be layered to create depths and personality.
For example:
Start with a vellum wrap
Add a silk ribbon
Finish with a wax seal or custom tag
This multi dimensional approach can elevate even the simplest invitation design.
Final Thoughts - It’s all in the details
Accessorising your invitations is about more than aesthetics, its about storytelling. These small embellishments communicate the care, thought and intention behind your celebration.
Whether you’re going for minimalist and modern or lavish and romantic, there’s an accessory ( or a few) to match your vision.
Before you finalise your choice, consider:
Your overall theme and colour palette
Practically (e.g. m ailing constraints)
Budget (accessories can add up, especially with hand assembly)
When done thoughtfully, these details create an unboxing experience your guests will remember and likely photograph
Need help accessorising your invitations?
If you’re unsure where to start , work with your stationer or a design specialist to explore combinations that suit your style and budget. Custom wax seals, hand dyed ribbons or laser cut wraps there’s a perfect match for your vision.
Make your first impression count. Add the touches that turn paper into magic.
