5 Top Destination Wedding Stationery Ideas for 2026

UPDATED FOR 2025/2026

Hosting a destination wedding is a wonderful way to celebrate your union and create unforgettable moments with your loved ones, especially if travel plays a big part of your lives. Travel continues to inspire modern couples, with more than a quarter of weddings now taking place abroad. While events abroad do require more planning, it’s absolutely worthwhile! In 2026, destination weddings are becoming even more personalised, meaningful and immersive. Couples are no longer simply choosing beautiful backdrops but creating experiences that reflect who they are and what they love.

Your wedding stationery is the first glimpse your guests will have of your celebration, and it can capture the spirit of your destination beautifully. In line with the latest wedding stationery trends 2026, the best way to make your invitations personal is to draw inspiration from the destination you have chosen. Whether or not your guests are seasoned travellers, the ideas below are sure to get your friends and family really excited for the journey!

1. Hyper-personalised stationery suites

Personalisation has always been at the heart of Ananya Cards, but 2026 is the year of hyper-personalisation. Couples are going beyond monograms and colour palettes, choosing stationery that tells their story in every detail. Think bespoke illustrations of where they met, motifs inspired by their cultural heritage or lines from their vows woven into the design.

Every piece, from invitations to place cards, is being treated as a reflection of the couple’s personalities and values. This level of detail creates luxury wedding stationery that feels truly unique and emotionally resonant, perfect for destination celebrations in locations such as Dubai, Italy or the Maldives.

We love crafting personalised map inserts to complement invitation suites, designing illustrated envelope liners and providing digital artwork for couples to showcase on their wedding websites. Whether minimalist or highly detailed, these maps not only guide guests but also become beautiful keepsakes.

For instance, your invitations could feature an elegant line drawing of your wedding venue, a delicately embossed city map or a scenic illustration of rolling hills or mountains near your event. Each piece tells a story, connecting your guests to the essence of the destination and setting the tone for the unforgettable celebration to come.

Photography by Martina H

2. Statement shapes and textured finishes

Incorporating local language into your wedding stationery is a creative way to reflect the spirit of your destination. Simple phrases from the local culture can make your invitations more engaging and memorable. For a Greek island wedding, a cheerful “Yamas!” (cheers) could feature on your welcome cards written in calligraphy, while a “Bienvenidos!” (welcome) could greet guests attending a celebration in Spain.

Travel-themed phrases also bring extra flair. Think of lines like “Love without borders” for a wedding that spans continents, or “Meet us where the sun meets the sea” for a coastal celebration. These expressions give your guests a preview of the magic to come.

When it comes to playing with wording, another fun idea can be to come up with creative dress code descriptions that reflect the culture. For an Amalfi Coast wedding you could suggest “Lemon Grove Elegance” for the dress code. If you do decide to think outside the box with dress codes, make sure to also provide your guests with a description of what it means – on your wedding website if you have one – or even a Pinterest board of outfit inspiration to make it easier to pack appropriately, especially handy for a multicultural wedding.

Photography by Inna Nova Photography

3. Colours and patterns that tell a story

Destination wedding stationery in 2026 is all about colour with meaning. Rather than following seasonal palettes, couples are embracing hues that connect to their location, culture or shared memories.

Think azure tones inspired by the Amalfi Coast, earthy neutrals for desert celebrations in Dubai or jewel tones influenced by Indian artistry. Patterns also play a key role, whether geometric designs that echo Moroccan tiles or soft florals reminiscent of Provence. When used thoughtfully, colours, motifs or patterns become part of the storytelling.

As a UK and Dubai wedding stationery designer, we understand the importance of colour and how colour meanings differ across cultures. Our designs bring together craftsmanship, symbolism and style to create stationery that feels personal and meaningful. Discover our 8 tips for choosing the perfect wedding invitation colour palette in this blog.

Prints and patterns can also be a fantastic and sophisticated way of conveying a travel aesthetic, without overwhelming the design. Whether it's through subtle colours or more intricate motifs, these design elements bring the destination to life on paper. Patterns inspired by the destination add depth and character without overwhelming your design. Picture delicate fan patterns for a wedding in Seville, symbolic wave motifs for a coastal celebration in Portugal, or intricate lattice patterns reminiscent of the souks for a celebration in Marrakech. For a wedding in Kyoto, cherry blossom motifs or subtle ink-wash patterns can reflect the cultural richness of the setting. In an Indian wedding, consider incorporating symbolic elephants, reflecting cultural richness and traditions. Drawing from local patterns or architecture can beautifully connect the stationery to the wedding location in a timeless way.

4. Multi-day celebration suites

As destination weddings become more elaborate, stationery is adapting to reflect multi-day itineraries - a trend we are seeing more of in 2026 wedding trends. From welcome dinners and beach parties to farewell brunches, couples are commissioning coordinated suites that tie every event together.

A cohesive design theme that runs across all printed and digital materials, from invitations to menus, itineraries and thank you cards, creates a seamless visual experience for guests. Thoughtful stationery ensures your guests feel guided, informed and part of the celebration from start to finish.

This is especially important for destination weddings in Dubai or abroad, where guests may be travelling long distances and appreciate beautiful, well-planned stationery that keeps them informed every step of the way.

5. Illustrated maps and meaningful details

Illustrated maps remain a firm favourite for destination weddings. They not only add beauty but also help orient guests in a creative and memorable way. Whether it’s a hand-drawn coastline, the silhouette of a mountain range or landmarks close to your venue, these illustrations make each invitation feel personal.

Another chic idea for the travel enthusiasts out there is to create a stationery suite in the style of a passport, boarding pass or airline ticket, which can be particularly exciting for your guests to receive if they have a long way to travel to reach your celebrations! These can be made very realistic, with barcodes, logos or a perforated edge, and can be mailed alongside a matching envelope, a luggage tag or a passport cover, to complete the travel-inspired look. For multicultural weddings, incorporating diverse traditions and personal touches can make a travel-inspired stationery suite even more meaningful.

At Ananya Cards, we often design custom map inserts, envelope liners or digital illustrations for wedding websites to complement printed suites. These small yet impactful details transform your personalised wedding stationery into keepsakes that guests will treasure long after the celebration.

Bringing your stationery vision to life
Destination weddings offer the chance to weave together travel, culture and creativity. Your stationery sets the tone for the celebration and becomes the thread that connects each moment.

If you’re planning a destination wedding in 2026 and you’re looking for guidance in designing a suite that captures the essence of travel, adventure and luxury, we’d be delighted to assist you.

Until next time,

Vaishali

Unlocking Elegance: A Guide to Wedding Monograms

Monograms and wedding logos add a personalised touch to your stationery, elevating your celebration with a touch of elegance. Crafted uniquely for each couple, these bespoke creations hold significance beyond mere decoration. Let's explore the essence of wedding monograms and their role in infusing a personal touch into your special day.

What’s a Monogram?

A monogram is a design featuring intertwined letters, usually the initials of the couple's names. It can take on a contemporary twist with a plus sign or ampersand. Alternatively, a single initial monogram using the first letter of the shared last name offers a stylish option.

Historical Significance

Originally used to identify artists in medieval times, monograms gained popularity among royalty in the 18th and 19th centuries. Their influence extended to modern fashion, with designers like Yves Saint Laurent incorporating them into their works. Across cultures, monograms are believed to attract positive energy, ward off negativity, and promote harmony, symbolising good fortune and prosperity.

Beyond Aesthetics
Monograms are not just decorative elements; they capture your essence and can evolve into a symbol of your family story. A custom family emblem becomes a lasting legacy, adding a touch of sophistication to your wedding stationery. Symbolising unity, these woven letters signify the union of two individuals creating a new family unit, making them a timeless and perfect addition to your wedding celebration.

Photography by Black Flamingo

Crafting Your Unique Monogram

Working with a stationery designer lets you choose between simple or elaborate styles. Add motifs, patterns, or illustrations to tell your story with timeless sophistication. At Ananya Cards, we're experts at creating monograms that blend intricate details, symbolism, and a touch of modern authenticity.

Image by Chandan Sojitra

Incorporating Monograms into Your Wedding Day

Versatile and chic, your monogram can grace everything from save the dates to signage, gift boxes and charming wedding favours, and beyond. Go beyond traditional stationery – add it to floral arrangements, lighting, backdrops, DJ booths, and seating. Personalise napkins, glassware, tissue boxes, cufflinks, and bespoke accessories like veils and bow ties with your monogrammed details.

Let the magic of your monogram extend seamlessly into every wedding moment. From Mehendi decor and vibrant Sangeet stages to the intricate details of the Haldi ceremony and the sacred space of the Mandap at an Indian or multicultural wedding, your monogram becomes the thread weaving through every moment of your celebration. And as the sweet centrepiece, let your wedding cake carry the elegant mark of your monogram, making it a focal point of your wedding reception. Your monogram can express itself in different languages. At Ananya Cards, we believe that your monogram is more than a symbol; it's a touch of your love story woven into every element of your celebration.

Post-Wedding Monogram Magic

Monograms aren't just limited to the big day; they extend beyond. Elevate thank-you cards, personalised stationery, wax seals, and home decor such as embroidered linens and cushions. Monograms stand as a timeless and cherished reminder of the love and commitment celebrated during the wedding. Keep the love alive in your travels with monogrammed luggage. Whether it's embossed initials on leather tags or custom-designed suitcases, personalise your journey in style. As actress Reese Witherspoon famously said, "If it's not moving - monogram it!"

Make your wedding uniquely yours with monograms - details that celebrate your love story with a touch of flair.

Final Reflections

In conclusion, embrace the elegance and significance of monograms in personalising your wedding, adding a distinctive and meaningful touch to every aspect of your celebration. A symbol of unity, monograms represent the coming together of two individuals in marriage and the creation of a new family unit.

If you're considering having a monogram at your wedding, let's chat and brainstorm creative ideas to make it uniquely yours.

Until next time,

Vaishali

Luxury Stationery for Milestone Celebrations: Your Essential Guide

Milestone celebrations are moments in life that call for something truly special. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, a corporate milestone such as a company anniversary or rebranding launch, these occasions are opportunities to create lasting memories. These occasions are not just events; they’re memories in the making. One way to elevate your event is through bespoke luxury stationery – a personal touch that leaves a lasting impression on your guests or stakeholders.

At Ananya Cards, we believe stationery for milestone events goes beyond just invitations or menus. It becomes part of the event experience itself. Thoughtfully designed stationery sets the tone for your celebration, conveys the care and planning behind it, and transforms your event into something unforgettable. Whether it’s intricately designed invitations for a gala dinner or branded thank-you cards for corporate guests, the right stationery creates a cohesive and meaningful narrative.

Let’s explore how you can incorporate luxury stationery into your next big celebration and make it unforgettable.

Save-the-Dates with Impact

For milestone celebrations, especially those requiring travel or involving international guests, sending save-the-dates early is important. A beautifully designed card – perhaps featuring gold foil, embossed details, or watercolour illustrations – builds anticipation and sets the stage for what’s to come.

Photo: Elizabeth Mitova Photography

Elegant Invitations to Set the Stage

Your invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of your milestone event. For corporate celebrations, they provide an opportunity to showcase your brand while conveying the significance of the occasion.

Customisation is key. Incorporating personal touches such as monograms, favourite quotes, a unique logo for the event, or design elements that align with your brand story ensures that the stationery reflects your vision. Corporate events might feature minimalist aesthetics paired with sleek typography for a modern look or embossed logos and metallic finishes for added sophistication.

In our experience, clients often opt for tactile elements like embossing or letterpress printing, which elevate the feel of luxury. The choice of paper stock, printing techniques and finishing touches such as hand calligraphy, wax seals or ribbon closures can enhance the luxury feel of your stationery. These details create a sense of exclusivity, making recipients feel valued.

If you're planning milestone invitations, avoid common mistakes that can affect the impact of your event. Read our blog, Wedding Invitations - 10 Things NOT To Do!, for tips to ensure your stationery is flawless.

Photo: Philippa Sian Photography

Captivating Menus and Place Cards

Well-thought-out stationery doesn’t stop at the invitation. On-the-day stationery like personalised menus, place cards, and table signage ties together the event’s aesthetic.

For corporate milestone events, these details reinforce your brand’s professionalism and attention to detail. Imagine a bespoke menu for an executive dinner featuring nods to your company’s brand colours, or place cards handwritten in elegant calligraphy that make each guest feel truly appreciated.

We work with PR agencies and event planners planning high-profile launches who often rely on unique event branding that carries through every element, from the table setting to the thank-you notes. These small yet impactful touches create a polished and cohesive experience.

Photo: Elizabeth Mitova Photography

Thank You Cards with a Personal Touch

Show your gratitude with style and thoughtfulness. Bespoke thank-you cards convey your appreciation and leave a lasting impression. For corporate events, including a personalised message or incorporating event photography can add a heartfelt and memorable touch.

At Ananya Cards, we have created thank-you stationery that combines sleek design with meaningful details. For example, a thank-you card for a product launch might feature a QR code to download all the event images and a handwritten note, ensuring that clients, media attendees, or stakeholders feel recognised and valued.

Keepsakes to Treasure Forever

For both private and corporate milestone celebrations, creating keepsake items ensures the memories live on. Framed invitations, bespoke programmes, or branded stationery boxes and tote bags to store event memorabilia are just some ways to preserve the essence of your special occasion.

Corporate clients have often requested keepsake stationery to honour major achievements. For example, a limited-edition set of thank-you cards or a commemorative programme for a business’s 25th anniversary can serve as a meaningful token for clients and partners.

Why Choose Bespoke Stationery for Your Corporate Event?

Mass-produced, off-the-shelf stationery can’t capture the individuality or significance of your milestone celebration. Bespoke stationery, on the other hand, allows you to tell your story in a way that’s as unique as the celebration itself.

For corporate events, bespoke designs ensure your branding is seamlessly integrated into the event experience, enhancing your reputation and attention to detail. At Ananya Cards, our expertise spans global clients and diverse industries. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone in London, Dubai, or another location, we craft designs that align with your brand values and cultural nuances.

Make Every Detail Count

Every detail of well-crafted stationery contributes to the success of your event. From save-the-dates to thank-you notes, cohesive and thoughtful design transforms your event into a masterpiece.

In fact, cohesive event branding doesn’t just enhance your event’s visual appeal; it can also elevate the guest experience and engagement. If you’re curious about how to seamlessly tie your event’s theme into every detail, check out this guide to effective event branding for expert insights.

With nearly two decades of experience, Ananya Cards specialises in luxury stationery for life’s most cherished moments and significant corporate milestones. We partner with clients to ensure every piece reflects their unique vision, creating unforgettable experiences for guests and stakeholders alike.

If you’re planning a milestone celebration – whether personal or corporate – and want stationery that captures the essence of the occasion, we’d love to collaborate with you. Let’s create something exceptional together. Please get in touch for a non-obligation consultation.

Until next time,

Vaishali

Wedding Dress Codes Explained: Expert Tips from a Stationer

Planning a wedding involves lots of very exciting decisions, and one of the key elements that sets the tone for your celebration will be the dress code that you choose. Communicating this attire preference to your guests can be both an art and a science! It’s important to be open and clear, but also a lot of couples worry about being considerate and creative in their dress code decisions too. As a stationer specialising in crafting bespoke wedding invitations, I have witnessed the importance of easily-digestible and thoughtful dress code descriptions. I love supporting my couples in choosing the best attire, wording, and communication style for this too.

Here are some tips on how to effectively convey your wedding dress code to ensure that your guests feel comfortable and stylish on your big day.

1. Understand the Basics

Before diving into the specifics of your dress code, familiarise yourself with the basics. Different dress codes imply varying levels of formality and style. From casual and cocktail to formal and black- tie, each designation sets different expectations for your guests. Understanding these conventions will help you articulate your desired atmosphere and assist your guests in selecting appropriate attire.

2. Reflect Your Theme

Consider your theme and wedding venue when choosing a dress code. If you’re having a destination beach wedding in Dubai, ‘Casual Beach Chic’ or ‘Resort Attire’ might be suitable. For an elegant affair in a ballroom, ‘Black-Tie’ or ‘Formal Attire’ could be more fitting. Aligning your dress code with your overall wedding vision creates a cohesive experience for both you and your guests.

3. Include Clear Language

Use clear and concise language when describing your dress code. Ambiguity can lead to confusion, so be specific in your wording. Instead of ‘Dressy Casual,’ consider ‘Smart Casual’ or ‘Polished Casual.’ These subtle differences can make a significant impact on how your guests interpret the dress code.

For a handy resource, check out The Knot’s Wedding Guest Attire Cheat Sheet which offers a quick reference guide to help guests dress appropriately for any occasion.

4. Provide Examples

If your dress code is unique or open to interpretation, consider providing examples to guide your guests. Include images or a brief description in your wedding invitations or on your wedding website to illustrate the desired look. For instance, if you opt for ‘Bohemian Chic,’ share images of flowy dresses and floral accessories to inspire your guests.

In 2025, colour trends for luxury weddings are all about bold, dramatic jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep amethyst - especially popular for Dubai weddings. These rich hues can set the tone for your celebration, so consider a dress code like ‘Jewel Tones’ or ‘Opulent Elegance’ to guide your guests’ attire while adding a luxurious touch.

5. Think About Comfort

While you want your guests to look polished and stylish, it’s also very important to ensure that your dress code allows for comfort. If you’re hosting an outdoor wedding in the summertime, a relaxed dress code like ‘Garden Party Attire’ communicates both style and practicality. Balancing elegance with comfort ensures your guests can enjoy the festivities without feeling restricted.

6. Consider Cultural Sensitivity

If your wedding celebrates diverse cultural backgrounds, be mindful of dress code terminology that may be unfamiliar to some guests. Include a brief explanation or direct them to additional resources where they can learn more about the suggested attire, especially helpful at a multicultural wedding. This promotes inclusivity and helps everyone feel welcomed and respected.

Bottom Line

Choosing a dress code that is right for you, your style, and your venue, is one of the ways that you can infuse your personality into the celebrations – and guests love having guidance on what to wear! We recommend starting from the most basic and traditional dress code levels, and then adding some creative flair by further describing or illustrating the dress code. And if you’re having multiple days of events, feel free to encourage guests to explore different levels of formality for your welcome dinner, mehendi and sangeet, wedding day, and farewell BBQ, for example!

Interactive elements are becoming part of the dress code experience in 2025, especially at destination weddings. Some couples are including QR codes on their invitations that lead guests to a digital lookbook with tailored outfit inspirations. This ‘digital dress code guide’ or ‘wedding wardrobe’ feature helps clarify expectations and offers guests ideas that match the wedding's theme and colours. It’s an innovative way to guide guests on style, adding a touch of modern sophistication to the traditional dress code instructions.

Here at Ananya Cards we specialise in transforming weddings with bespoke stationery, fusing cultures and reflecting each couple’s unique style. My passion drives a commitment to excellence, ensuring every detail is crafted with care. Our international service allows us to work with couples worldwide, offering everything from elegant designs to sustainable initiatives. At Ananya Cards, we add a touch of sophistication to make your special day truly unforgettable.

I would love to work with you and provide you support and guidance in creating stationery that elevates your day and your guest experience!

Until next time,

Vaishali

Elevate your style: 6 Tips for Selecting Luxury Bridal Shoes

When it comes to planning a luxury wedding, every detail matters. From bespoke invitations for that extra personal touch, to selecting your dream venue and of course, the dress, each aspect of the celebration should exude elegance and sophistication. This is especially true for the bride's ensemble. While the focus is often on the dress, it's important not to forget about the shoes! Designer bridal shoes can elevate your style and make you feel truly special on your big day. Here are some tips to help you with your search for the perfect pair of wedding shoes to complete your wedding ensemble.

1. Consider Your Cultural Traditions

If you are incorporating cultural or traditional elements into your wedding ceremony, it is important to consider how your bridal shoes will fit into those customs. Some cultures have specific traditions that are an integral part of the wedding ritual. Additionally, in many cultures, the colour of the bridal shoes holds significance, so make sure to consider any colour symbolism when selecting your footwear.

2. Focus on Comfort

While style and aesthetics are important factors when choosing your bridal shoes, comfort should never be overlooked. On your wedding day, you will be on your feet for long periods of time, and the last thing you want is to be in pain or discomfort! It’s important to look for shoes with cushioned insoles and supportive heels to ensure that you can enjoy every moment of your special day comfortably. Once you’ve found your dream pair, try to break them in during the run up to your special day too to ensure they’re a perfect fit as you make your way down the aisle.

3. Match Your Theme and Dress

Your bridal shoes should seamlessly complement the overall theme and style of your wedding, as well as the design of your dress. Whether you opt for classic white courts, statement stilettos, or a sparkling sandal, make sure that the shoes reflect your personality and the aesthetic of your celebration. You may also want to consider the fabric and embellishments of your dress and choose shoes that coordinate with these elements to create a cohesive and elegant look. Shoes embellished with pearls, crystals, bows, delicate lace and floral patterns can really help to bring your theme to life.

4. Consider Your Venue

It’s also important to think about the location and setting of your wedding when choosing your bridal shoes. If you're getting married outdoors, you'll want to consider a style that's suitable for walking on grass, gravel or uneven surfaces. A block heel or wedge may be a better option than a stiletto heel. Alternatively, if you're having a formal indoor wedding, you might opt for a more delicate and sophisticated style. For destination weddings, you may want to consider a reliable yet stylish sandal to help you to look and feel comfortable and confident all day long.

5. Quality Matters

When it comes to luxury bridal shoes, quality is of the utmost importance. Look for well-crafted, high-quality materials that are guaranteed to stand the test of time. Whether you choose leather, silk, or satin, ensure that the shoes are made with attention to detail and careful craftsmanship. Designer bridal shoes should be able to be worn and cherished for many years to come.

6. Consider Personalising Your Shoes

Finally, adding a personal touch to your bridal shoes can be a wonderful and fun way to make them even more special. Why not consider adding custom embossing, monogramming, or embellishments to make your shoes uniquely yours. You could also incorporate meaningful details, such as a family heirloom or a special charm, to add sentimentality to your footwear. Some designer brands also offer a shoe dyeing service which can be an excellent way to incorporate any colour symbolism into your bridal look. Unique touches will create a wonderful keepsake to cherish beyond the big day.

We hope that these tips will help you in your search for finding the perfect bridal shoes for your special day. Remember, comfort is absolutely essential but with so many options available, you are sure to find a pair which exudes beauty and uniqueness!

Until next time,

Vaishali