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

How to Choose the Perfect Colour Palette for Your Wedding Invitations - 8 Tips

Choosing your wedding invitation colour palette is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. It’s the first glimpse your guests will have into the atmosphere and style of your big day. Whether you're planning a lavish Dubai wedding, an intimate UK wedding, or a dreamy destination wedding, your invitation colours should reflect your personal style, cultural influences, and the overall vibe of your celebration.

At Ananya Cards, we understand how important it is to create stationery that is as unique as your love story. If you need help bringing your vision to life, we’d be delighted to design something truly special for you. Let your colours speak volumes and set the perfect tone for your unforgettable day.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, don’t worry! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a colour palette that feels as unique and meaningful as your love story.

Photo: Martina H

Start with Your Wedding Theme and Venue

Your wedding theme and venue are the perfect starting points for choosing your invitation colours. Are you having a grand celebration in Dubai with opulent details, a charming countryside wedding in the UK, or a sun-soaked destination wedding on a beach in Santorini? Each setting naturally suggests a different mood and palette. For example, for a Dubai wedding, gold and ivory with intricate Arabic-inspired patterns can create a luxurious first impression. For a desert celebration, earthy tones like terracotta, sand, and muted greens echo the natural landscape. For a beach destination wedding, ocean blues and sandy neutrals feel fresh and timeless. A vineyard wedding in Tuscany could inspire rich greens, wine reds, and warm terracottas.

By aligning your invitation colours with your theme and venue, you’ll create a cohesive look that flows effortlessly from your invitations to your big day.

Photo: Shades Production

Draw Inspiration from Your Personal Story

Your invitations are an opportunity to share a piece of your story. Think about places, memories, or symbols that hold special meaning to you as a couple. Did you fall in love in the vibrant streets of Marrakech? Terracotta and jewel tones could capture that energy. Did you say "yes" under a golden sunset? Warm amber and soft peach might be ideal.

Infusing your personal story into your colour palette makes your invitations not only beautiful but also deeply sentimental.

Photo: Valery Studio

Consider the Season

The season of your wedding can naturally influence your colour choices. Seasonal tones feel effortless and timeless.

Suggestions by Season:

• Spring: Soft pastels like blush pink, sage green, and buttery yellow.

• Summer: Bold corals, sunny yellows, and ocean blues.

• Autumn: Rich burgundy, burnt orange, and deep plum.

• Winter: Icy blues, silver, and warm metallics like gold or copper.

While seasonal colours are a great starting point, don’t feel restricted. Your wedding day should reflect your personality, no matter the season.

Photo: Elizabeth Mitova Photography

Reflect Cultural Elements

For multicultural weddings, blending traditions through colour is a meaningful way to celebrate your heritage. For example, at Indian Weddings, bright hues like marigold yellow, fuchsia pink, and peacock blue symbolise joy and celebration. Pair these with neutrals for balance.

Blending colours from both cultures into a modern design is a beautiful way to honour your heritage while creating something uniquely yours.

Balance Bold and Neutral Tones

Striking the right balance between bold and neutral shades is key. Bold colours can make a statement, but pairing them with softer tones ensures sophistication. For example, a Dubai wedding, deep plum paired with pearl white and champagne gold feels opulent. In a UK wedding, navy blue combined with dusty rose adds a modern twist to a classic palette.

A well-balanced palette often includes:

1. Dominant Colour: The main shade that sets the tone.

2. Secondary Colour: A complementing hue for depth.

3. Accent Colour: A contrasting pop for added drama.

Prioritise Readability

While bold or unusual colour combinations are exciting, readability should always come first. Ensure that your text is clear and legible against the background.

Tips for Readability:

• Use dark text on light backgrounds or light text on dark backgrounds.

• For pastel or metallic details, consider using borders or layering colours for clarity.

Play with Texture and Finishes
Colour isn’t just about ink - it’s also about texture and finish. The type of paper and printing technique can elevate your chosen palette.

Examples:

• Velvet paper with deep emerald ink creates a luxurious effect.

• Handmade cotton paper with soft blush tones feels delicate and romantic.

• Gold foil accents add glamour, especially for luxury weddings.

• Letterpress printing adds subtle dimension for a timeless touch.

Textures and finishes bring depth and sophistication to your invitations.

Seek Professional Guidance

Designing wedding stationery is an art. At Ananya Cards, we specialise in bespoke invitations that perfectly capture your unique style. We love collaborating with couples to blend colours, patterns, and finishes into designs that feel completely personal.

Photo: Elizabeth Mitova Photography

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect colour palette for your wedding invitations should be joyful, not stressful. There’s no right or wrong choice - it’s about what feels meaningful to you. Whether you love soft neutrals, bold jewel tones, or unexpected combinations, your invitations should tell your story. One of our couples planning a destination wedding in Morocco chose rich terracotta with gold foil to mirror the warm tones of Marrakech. A couple hosting a Dubai wedding selected crisp white and gold invitations with Arabic calligraphy to reflect their cultural heritage and the city’s elegance.

Whether you're planning an extravagant Dubai wedding, a classic UK wedding, or a romantic destination wedding, we’d love to help you create something truly unforgettable.

At Ananya Cards, we understand how important it is to create stationery that is as unique as your love story. If you need help bringing your vision to life, we’d be delighted to design something truly special for you.

Let your colours speak volumes and set the perfect tone for your unforgettable day.

We hope this article has been a helpful and inspiring as you plan your wedding. For more guidance, check out our blogs on wedding invitation timelines and wedding stationery tips, filled with useful advice.

If you’re ready to create sophisticated, unique, and culturally inclusive stationery that reflects YOUR personality – we’d love to hear from you!

 Until next time,

 Vaishali

Ultimate Guide to Wedding Save The Dates

If the magic of the holidays has come to life in the form of a twinkling engagement ring – congratulations! At Ananya Cards, we love working with couples as they begin the new year planning a celebration of their love. As a leading London and Dubai-based wedding stationer, one of the most frequent questions we receive is about save the dates: when to send them, what to include, and how they set the tone for your big day. Save the dates are the first glimpse your guests will get into your wedding style, so they’re worth planning carefully.

We’ve put together some of our top tips for save the dates, which will be helpful now that you’re engaged!

Photo: Martina H

WHEN TO SEND SAVE THE DATES

While researching venue ideas, even before setting your date, it’s a great idea to start browsing stationers’ portfolios on Instagram and online – as they will be the next vendor you’ll want to speak to. It’s a wonderful feeling to connect with a designer you love and to know that, as soon as you have your wedding venue and date, you’re ready to start working together to create save the dates and invitations that will wow your guests. It’s never too early to reach out to stationers and designers to let them know you’d like to work with them, so they can start slotting you in. They can also give you some provisional estimates of costs, design process, and timescales, which can be really helpful in these early stages of planning your wedding.

Once you have chosen your date and venue, the save the dates can be ordered! You can start spreading the word amongst family and friends of course, and then WOW them with save the dates that really tell your story and begin the aesthetic narrative that will thread through all of your wedding styling. Some couples send these as early as 12 months before the wedding, particularly if they are having a destination wedding or if they know their guests need a long notice period to schedule travel or work absences. This is particularly considerate if you are having your wedding in Summer, on a peak date, as it gives guests plenty of time to plan their holidays. On average, most couples send their save the dates 6-12 months before their wedding.

DO I REALLY NEED SAVE THE DATES?

Although save the dates aren’t essential, they’re highly recommended for ensuring your guests reserve the date. They’re particularly beneficial for destination weddings where guests may need more time to plan travel arrangements.

If your wedding is still a long way away and you don’t want to commit to a style or colour palette just yet – that’s absolutely fine! You may also be feeling that you don’t have a sense of budget yet, and so don’t want to over-commit on the stationery spend before having a larger picture of the investments you’ll need to make. There are a few solutions to this: firstly, you can keep your save the dates very simple and minimal, with no patterns or overarching colours, just crisp monochromatic or metallic details, and classic fonts.

Another option is to opt for semi-custom, which is where a designer adapts one of their existing house collections for you; this requires a lower investment, and a offers a quicker turn-around too, so may be a good solution for you if you’re wanting a quick, easy, and more cost-effective route. Finally, another solution can be to work with your designer for a bespoke wedding stationery suite but ask for the save the dates to be digital only: this means that they will create something beautiful, elegant, and unique for you that you can send your guests a digital save the date, and which will then serve as the aesthetic foundation on which all the rest of your stationery suite will be built.

Photo: Valery Studio

WHAT TO INCLUDE IN MY SAVE THE DATES

You can choose to include as much or as little information as you like on your save the dates. If you’re sending them well in advance, keep them simple and minimal. If you’re further along in your planning, you can add more details to help your guests prepare.

Here are the essentials:
Date and location – these are key! There’s no need to include the ceremony time, especially if it’s subject to change.

Type of celebration – if it’s a multiple-day event or destination wedding, mention it now to help guests plan.

Names of each invited guest – this avoids confusion about who is included, such as whether children or a plus-one are invited.

Guests may reach out to you with comments and questions once your save the dates have arrived, so it can be helpful to include the URL of your wedding website. This gives guests a central hub for updates and details as the wedding approaches. Wedding websites are especially useful for destination weddings in Dubai or Europe, for example, as you can share travel information, accommodation information, timings, dress codes, and more.

By sharing key details online, you can reduce the need for additional inserts with your invitations later on, keeping things simple and cost-effective.

READY TO SEND MY SAVE THE DATES! WHAT’S NEXT?

Once you’ve decided to send save the dates and chosen a semi-custom or bespoke design, it’s time to get them ready and share the excitement!

Guest list certainty: Keep in mind that save the dates should only be sent to guests you are sure you will be inviting to the wedding. Adding guests later is fine, but it can be awkward if you need to remove someone after sending a save the date.

Order extras: If you’re ordering physical save the dates, plan to order around 10% more than you need. This ensures you have spares for any last-minute additions or replacements.

Envelope options: You can address envelopes yourself, hire a calligrapher, or printed directly on the envelope.

Once that’s done, they’re ready to go - spreading the love and excitement to your guests!

We hope this article has been a helpful and inspiring as you plan your wedding. For more guidance, check out our blogs on wedding invitation timelines and wedding stationery tips, filled with useful advice.

If you’re ready to create sophisticated, unique, and culturally inclusive stationery that reflects YOUR personality – we’d love to hear from you!

 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

Who should you buy gifts for at your wedding?

Weddings don’t come together overnight; they’re celebrations that take a lot of time, effort, and collaboration. This is especially true for larger events, such as Indian or multicultural weddings, or multi-day celebrations, which often include several traditions and intricate planning.

Throughout it all, you’ll hopefully be supported by your family and friends, who will band together to help you create decorations, table plans, choose your outfits, plan your hen/stag/mehendi party and generally listen to you as you prepare for this big stage of your life.

A thoughtful gift is a wonderful way to say thank you and show your appreciation for the roles they’ve played. So, who should you give gifts to, and who gets a heartfelt thank-you note? Let’s take a look.

Stationery by Ananya Cards at The Hilton Dubai Palm

Bridesmaids and groomsmen

Members of your wedding party are likely to play a big role in bringing the day together and helping you keep calm throughout the planning process. They’ll probably have been some of the first people you told about your engagement, and so you’re likely to have already discussed with them different colour palettes, wedding stationery themes, and which traditions and cultural elements to include.

On the day, they’ll get you where you need to be and make sure you look fantastic, as well as taking care of smaller details like checking your parents are happy and that everyone feels welcome and catered for.

Since they’re probably your closest friends, it should be relatively easy to buy something meaningful for them. If you’re stuck for ideas, a bracelet or cufflinks marked with the date of your wedding, or a beautifully calligraphed poem or favourite quote can be a beautiful, long-lasting memento. For a more unique touch, gift them an experience, such as a wine-tasting session or a wellness retreat voucher.

Image: Fiona Kelly Photography | Gifting and stationery by Ananya Cards

Children with special roles in the ceremony

If you, your siblings or close friends have children, it can be a lovely idea to have them participate in the ceremony in some way. Not only will they look super cute, but many children like to feel included, especially if their parents are featuring in the wedding party. They can act as flower girls and boys, hand out order of service sheets, be ring bearers or even act as ‘unofficial photographers’ if they’re old enough.

Gifts for children often depend on their age. For little ones, you can look into sustainable cuddly toys or bespoke wooden puzzles. Older children may appreciate a similar gift to the rest of the bridesmaids and groomsmen, such as a bracelet or a watch, or reusable keepsake boxes. You needn’t spend too much money on children’s gifts – the important thing is for them to feel special and included. If you’re incorporating cultural elements, consider gifts that reflect those traditions, such as handcrafted trinkets or culturally inspired items.

Monogram design: Ananya Cards

Each other

It can be easy to think about everyone else when you’re planning your wedding – what your guests want, what music they like, and what food they would like to eat. But your wedding day is all about the love you share for each other as a couple.

Take time before the day to buy a special present for your other half, and keep it as a surprise until the morning of the wedding. Use this as an opportunity to show each other how much you’re looking forward to spending your lives together. Surprise your partner with a handwritten love letter on luxury stationery or an experience-based gift, such as a weekend getaway. Another option could be a charity donation in their name to a cause that’s meaningful to both of you, aligning with the growing trend of conscious gifting.

No matter who you choose to gift, remember that it’s the thought and cultural significance behind the gift that matters most. Whether it’s something practical, sentimental, or tied to a special memory, your gesture of gratitude will always be appreciated.

For inspiration, check out the Knot’s 50 Best Wedding Gift Ideas for Couples, which features a fantastic range of suggestions to suit every taste and budget.

If you’d like to explore ways to elevate your wedding stationery or add a personalised touch to your gifting, we’d love to help. Get in touch today to start designing something truly special!

 Until next time,

 Vaishali

How to Plan a Multicultural Wedding in Five Steps

Creating a wedding that is seamless, beautiful, and personal can feel daunting for couples starting their wedding planning journey – and even more so for those whom are bringing together families of different nationalities or of different religious and cultural backgrounds. There are some unique challenges involved in planning a multicultural wedding, but there is also great reward and joy to be found in starting your married lives together on such strong foundations of respect and unity.

So how can couples cover the most important elements, keep both sides happy, and still stay true to themselves and their values? Here are some expert tips from Ananya to help it go smoothly, from our years of experience supporting couples in crafting unique, sophisticated, and joyous multicultural weddings all over the world.

Hire a Wedding Planner

As our couple’s stationery partner, we often have the pleasure of working alongside their wedding planners – and we always notice that those clients that have the support of an expert throughout the planning journey are able to navigate the decision-making with much more ease. Having the peace of mind of being able to discuss the logistical, aesthetic, and emotional elements of your wedding with a planner is always important – but even more so when embarking on the task of bringing together different cultures.

Your wedding planner will guide you in seeing the wedding from both perspectives, suggest feasible and creative ways of paying homage to both your cultures, and help you manage any potential confusion or issues on the day itself too. They will be your planning partner as well as your confidant, and a steadfast ally at your side in case of needing backup during interactions with families too. They will also recommend venues and vendors that are not only able to accommodate your needs, but are also excited about, and familiar with, supporting couples with such rich, diverse backgrounds.

Manage Family Expectations

One of the key steps to planning a multicultural wedding is managing expectations of your family members – and may also involve sitting down with them individually to educate them about customs and traditions they may not know or understand. It’s important to be clear and considerate, and also not make assumptions or have expectations about who will be comfortable with what; start with an open mind in order to avoid disappointment or heartache further down the line. Be honest in why the choices you have made are right for you, and how you will be blending traditions in your own way.

If bringing both cultures together in one single event is something that your families aren’t comfortable with, consider extending the celebrations to two separate ceremonies and receptions. You could hold these two gatherings in different countries, and in different styles, and in so doing making sure that both sides feel equally important. As much as this may feel like more effort, try to remember that these events are two halves of a whole, and will strengthen your foundations and your support network as you start this new chapter of your life.

Incorporate Both Cultures

It can be very fun – but also somewhat overwhelming – to find ways of incorporating both cultural backgrounds in your wedding day, and to do so in ways that are both practical and respectful. When merging styles, not every tradition will be logistically feasible – even if your parents are adamant about it!

We work closely with our couples to design stationery with multiple cultures in mind, so that the fonts, colours, wording, motifs, and content, all embody the merging of two different cultures in marriage.

Some other ways that we’ve seen our couples pay homage to the heritage is by weaving in characteristic cuisine, choosing modern interpretations of traditional outfits, adding decorative elements that evoke the culture, or traditional music throughout the night and getting your guests to the dance floor.

Help Guests Feel Involved

Guests may be unfamiliar with the wedding traditions and customs you’ll be incorporating in the day, so it can be helpful to add a section on your website or on your wedding program with details on ceremony etiquette, cultural traditions, or stories about your background. You could also include a brief description or provide links to thorough explanations of each tradition and its importance, as certain guests will enjoy learning about a different culture. The guests will have much more fun if they are able to follow what is going on, and be actively engaged and involved in the event!

If there is a language barrier between some guests, it is considerate to provide a program and website in both languages. You could also consider having a translator present at the ceremony and reception, so all guests can follow and listen along.

Image of our couple S&G: Eye Jogia Photography

Do Your Homework & Stay True to Yourselves

When planning a multicultural wedding, it’s paramount to research and educate yourselves on both cultures’ traditions beforehand. Traditions can vary so widely across different regions and cultures, and sometimes elements that feel simple or common may actually trespass into areas that are frowned upon elsewhere. Being prepared will help you avoid any possible confusion during the ceremony and reception, as well as allowing you to choose with more intention which traditions are right for you. Be sure to talk kindly and honestly with one another, and with one another’s families. Open communication is key to any long-lasting relationship and showing a genuine interest in learning about each other’s histories, backgrounds, and legacies is an excellent place to start.

The most important advice we can give is to determine what ceremony and celebration traditions are important to you and your partner, and stay true to that.

We hope that this blog post has given you some food for thought, some reassurance, and also some ideas on how to navigate planning your beautiful multicultural wedding.

We adore working with couples paying homage to diverse backgrounds, and put a great amount of love and care into designs that reflect our couples’ stories. If you’re looking for any support with your wedding stationery, please do get in touch.

Until next time,

Vaishali