Corporate Wedding Invites: Are They Appropriate?

Sending wedding invites to companies in the hopes of receiving gifts or autographs in return has become a trend. Couples send invitations to celebrities, brands, and companies, and sometimes receive autographs, freebies, or personal messages in return. While some people view this practice as gift-grabby, others argue that it is harmless fun and a way to add excitement to the wedding planning process. Some companies that are known for sending out goodies in response to wedding invitations include Chick-fil-A, Lucasfilm, Ben & Jerry's, and Disney.

Companies that send wedding gifts

Sending wedding invites to companies is a trend that has gained traction on TikTok. Couples send their spare wedding invites to companies in the hopes of receiving free gifts or merchandise. Some companies that have been known to send wedding gifts include:

• Chick-fil-A: This fast-food chain has sent coupons, gift cards, and other treats to couples who have invited them to their wedding.
• Lucasfilm Ltd: Couples who bonded over Star Wars have received a themed cookbook and stickers from Lucasfilm after sending them a wedding invite.
• Ben & Jerry's: This ice cream company is known for sending discount coupons along with a cute note to couples who invite them to their wedding.
• Dallas Mavericks: This basketball team has been known to send branded goods and warm wishes to couples who invite them to their wedding.
• Crumbl Cookies: Sending a wedding invite to Crumbl Cookies might get you a hand-written response and some delicious cookies.
• Playstation: Gaming enthusiasts might receive gifts and responses from Playstation if they send them a wedding invite.
• The Body Shop: Instead of sending an invite, one bride wrote a thank-you letter to The Body Shop, expressing her love for their vitamin C moisturiser. The company responded with a box of skincare products.
• Two Roads Brewing Co: Beer enthusiasts might receive branded glasses and warm wishes from Two Roads Brewing Co if they send them a wedding invite.
• LaCroix: This sparkling water brand has sent a box of freebies, including sparkling waters, stickers, and coupons, to couples who have invited them to their wedding.
• Kate Spade: Fashion-forward couples might receive personalised gifts like cards, tote bags, or champagne glasses from Kate Spade if they send them a wedding invite.
• In-N-Out Burger: This burger brand has been known to send stickers, hats, t-shirts, and gift cards to couples who invite them to their wedding.
• Nintendo: Nintendo has been known to send mini posters to fans who invite them to their wedding.
• Disney: Couples having a Disney-themed wedding might receive personalised cards, stickers, pins, and other swag from Disney if they send them an invite.
• Coca-Cola: While it's a lofty goal, Coca-Cola might cover the soft drinks tab for your wedding. They have also been known to send out coupons for free products, personalised bottles, and even mini fridges to people who send them fan mail or wedding invites.
• Southwest Airlines: Gently reminding Southwest Airlines of your upcoming honeymoon might get you vouchers from them.
• Starbucks: Starbucks is known for being generous on birthdays, and they might send their congratulations with gift cards, mugs, and coffee blends if you invite them to your wedding.

How to find company addresses

There are several ways to find a company's address. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Examine the company's published material:

Look for the company's letterhead on any letters or documents. This usually contains the company's name, address, phone number, and sometimes email and website. Business cards can also provide address information, along with phone numbers, emails, and websites. If you have any non-standard documents, try to extract the company name and use other methods to find their address.

Attempt telecommunication:

Try calling the company or sending an email. If you have a contact person, address them directly and remind them of any prior meetings. Emails allow for more detail, but phone calls are more personal.

Engage in written communication:

After initial contact, follow up with written communication. You can request the postal address or look for it on the company's materials. Let them know you will be sending formal written requests.

Perform a web search:

Search for the company online. Verify the company's information with official sources, such as chamber of commerce or government websites. Check the company's credentials with sites like the Better Business Bureau.

Make e-contact:

Check the company's website for contact information. If there is little to no contact information, the company may not wish to be contacted directly. Try contacting them through official repositories, like chamber of commerce sites.

Contact the company directly:

Once you have the address, try contacting the company by phone or certified mail. A phone call is faster, but certified mail will ensure a delivery receipt.

Use business directories:

There are business directories, such as INBiz in Indiana, that allow you to search for businesses by name, address, and registered agent information. You can also try the National Corporation Directory, which has a database of over 28 million US businesses. Another option is the NAICS Company Lookup Tool, which provides data on 19 million US businesses, including physical addresses.

What to write in the invitation

When sending wedding invites to companies, it's important to remember that this strategy is mostly used to receive free gifts and that there is no guarantee of a response. If you have extra invites and want to try your luck, here is what you can write in the invitation:

• Include a photo of yourself and your partner using the company's products or services. For example, wearing their branded clothes or sitting in one of their stores.
• Mention why you love the brand and how it has been a part of your life or relationship. For instance, if you have a favourite flavour from a food company, include this detail.
• If you have a large social media following, consider including your handles. This is a subtle way to show the company that sending a gift could result in brand promotion.
• Keep the invitation heartfelt and genuine, expressing your enthusiasm for potentially including the company in your celebration.
• If you are sending the invitation to a sports team, include any photos you have with the team or at their games.
• You can also write a letter of appreciation for the company's products, as you would in a thank-you letter.

"Dear [Company Name],

We are huge fans of your brand and have been loyal customers for many years. [Mention any specific products or services you love and why]. We would be honoured to have you join us in our wedding celebration and hope that you can be a part of this special day.

Sincerely,

[Your Names]"

Remember to include the necessary details such as your names, the date and time, and the wedding venue. Good luck with your invitations!

Pros and cons of sending invites to companies

Sending wedding invites to companies is a growing trend, and while it may seem unconventional, there are several benefits and drawbacks to consider.

Pros

• Goodwill and Stronger Relationships: Inviting companies to your wedding can be a gesture of goodwill, and a way to acknowledge and honour the contributions of your professional circle. This can be especially meaningful if you have long-term partnerships or exceptionally positive experiences with a company.
• Networking Opportunities: Weddings are prime networking occasions, and inviting a mix of personal and professional guests can create a dynamic environment for new connections. The presence of corporate representatives can enhance networking opportunities for guests, turning the event into a confluence of various life facets.
• Potential Gifts and Sponsorships: Some companies view wedding invitations as an opportunity to showcase their products or services through sponsorships or unique gifts. This could mean anything from discounted services to free products for your wedding, providing financial relief and an exclusive touch to your special day.
• Enhancing Personal Connections: Sending a wedding invite to a company can be a way to deepen personal connections with individuals within that organisation. This could be especially meaningful if you have formed close bonds with colleagues or leadership.

Cons

• Potential for Overstepping Boundaries: It is important to maintain professionalism and transparency when inviting companies to your wedding. Be clear about what the invitation entails and what it doesn't. Specify that the gesture is out of respect and appreciation, without any expectation of gifts or sponsorships.
• Inappropriate for Certain Companies: Not all business relationships warrant an invitation. Assess the nature of your relationship with the company and consider whether your interaction has transcended mere transactional exchanges. Inviting companies with whom you have a genuine connection is more likely to be well-received.
• Potential for Awkward Dynamics: While inviting companies can enhance networking opportunities, it is essential to consider the dynamics this might introduce to the wedding atmosphere. Ensuring that the event remains a heartfelt celebration of love, rather than a networking event, is paramount.
• Time and Effort: Sending wedding invites to companies requires thoughtful consideration and personalisation. It may take extra time and effort to craft the perfect invitation and navigate the etiquette of corporate invitations.

Companies that are known for responding

There are several companies known for responding to wedding invites with gifts or well wishes. These include:

• Chick-fil-A: This fast-food chain is known for sending coupons, gift cards, and treats to celebrate your big day.
• Lucasfilm Ltd: If you and your partner are Star Wars fans, consider inviting Lucasfilm. They have sent themed cookbooks and stickers to couples in the past.
• LaCroix: This sparkling water brand is known for surprising couples with gifts, including sparkling waters, stickers, coupons, and personalised notes.
• The Body Shop: One bride wrote a thank-you letter to The Body Shop, expressing her love for their Vitamin C Moisturizer. The company responded with a box of skincare products.
• Two Roads Brewing Co: This company sent a couple a heartwarming reply and a set of branded glasses.
• Ben & Jerry's: This ice cream company sent a couple discount coupons for free scoops, along with a charming note.
• Dallas Mavericks: Basketball enthusiasts might appreciate a response from this team. They have been known to send branded goods and warm wishes.
• Crumbl Cookies: This company sent a sweet, handwritten response and some delicious cookies.
• Playstation: Gaming fans can expect a response from Playstation, complete with gifts.
• Kate Spade: Fashion-forward couples might receive personalised gifts like cards, tote bags, or champagne glasses from Kate Spade.
• In-N-Out Burger: This burger joint has been known to send stickers, hats, t-shirts, and gift cards.
• Nintendo: Nintendo values its fans' messages and often sends mini posters to couples who invite them.
• Disney: Disney is a must for a Disney-themed wedding. They have been known to send personalised cards, stickers, pins, and other goodies.
• Coca-Cola: This company has sent coupons for free products, personalised bottles, and even mini fridges to people who have invited them.
• Southwest Airlines: They are known for surprising couples with vouchers or congratulations on their upcoming flights.
• Starbucks: Starbucks is famous for its birthday treats, and they might just extend that generosity to your wedding. Couples have received gift cards, mugs, and special coffee blends.
• The Mets: Baseball fans, rejoice! The Mets have been known to send gifts and responses to wedding invites.

Frequently asked questions