Wedding Party Invite Etiquette: Who Makes The Cut?

Wedding invitations are one of the most important parts of wedding planning. They are the first glimpse your guests will get of your wedding's style or theme, and they provide crucial details such as accommodation booking information, dress code, and whether children are invited. The timing of sending out your wedding invitations is also very important. Send them too early and your wedding might not be at the top of your guests' minds when the day comes around; send them too late and you risk your guests not having enough time to plan. So, when is the best time to send out wedding invitations?

It's a formal event, so formal invites are required

A wedding is a formal event, so it requires formal invitations. While your wedding party will obviously know the details of your wedding, sending them a formal invitation is a lovely gesture. They will want an invite to remember the day and it will help them to stay informed. It will also ensure that they have all the information they need in one place, from the time and date to travel and accommodation details.

It is also a good idea to send invitations to your wedding party so that they can RSVP with their partners' information, such as dietary requirements. This will also allow you to collect information on their guests, food choices, and allergies. Sending a formal invitation to your wedding party will ensure that they have a reminder of the date, especially if they have busy schedules.

Additionally, many people like to keep wedding invitations as mementos, so your wedding party will likely appreciate receiving a formal invitation that they can keep as a keepsake. It is also a good idea to send an invitation to yourself so that you can have a stamped, addressed invite for your scrapbook or wedding album.

Finally, sending formal invitations to your wedding party will ensure that everyone feels included and valued. It is a way to show your wedding party that you are thankful for their excitement and involvement in your special day.

It's a nice gesture, even if they're helping with planning

It is generally considered a nice gesture to send wedding invitations to your wedding party, even if they are helping with planning. While it may seem redundant, especially for those closely involved in the planning process, a formal invitation is still a lovely way to include them in the celebrations. It is a chance for them to receive something special in the mail, and many people like to keep wedding invitations as mementos or stick them on their fridge as a reminder of the date. It also ensures that they have all the information they need in one place, including any important timings for the day.

Sending invitations to your wedding party also allows them to formally RSVP, providing any necessary information about their guests, dietary requirements, and other details that may be requested. It is a way to ensure that your wedding party, despite their involvement in the planning, still feels like a guest at your wedding.

Additionally, many brides choose to send themselves an invitation to keep as a memento, adding it to their scrapbooks or wedding albums. This can be a lovely way to remember the day and all the planning that went into it, and your wedding party may appreciate having this keepsake too.

While it may not be necessary to send invitations to your wedding party, doing so can add a special touch and ensure that those closest to you feel included and valued. It is a way to show your appreciation for their support and involvement in your special day.

It's a good reminder of the date

Sending invitations to your wedding party is a great way to remind them of the date. While it may seem redundant, especially if they are closely involved in the planning process, it is a thoughtful gesture that will be appreciated. It is also a good way to ensure that your wedding party has all the necessary information, such as the time and location of the ceremony, as well as any other relevant details.

Invitations are a formal way to mark the occasion and will be cherished keepsakes for years to come. They can also be used to gather important information from your wedding party, such as dietary requirements or the names of their guests. Additionally, sending invitations to your wedding party allows them to have a physical reminder of the date, which they can put on their fridge or bulletin board.

It is important to send invitations to all members of your wedding party, including parents and attendants. This ensures that everyone feels included and valued. It is also a good opportunity to involve them in the planning process and make them feel part of your special day.

Furthermore, sending invitations to your wedding party is a good opportunity to include them in any pre-wedding festivities, such as bridal showers or bachelorette/bachelor parties. This helps to create a cohesive experience for your wedding party and makes them feel like an integral part of your celebration. It also ensures that they have all the necessary information to participate in these events.

You can collect info on their guests, food choices, etc

Collecting information on your wedding guests' dietary requirements, allergies, and food preferences is a crucial aspect of wedding planning. Here are some tips to help you with this process:

Online RSVPs

Using online RSVPs on your wedding website is a convenient way to gather guest information. You can include additional fields to request each guest's meal choice and any dietary restrictions or allergies. This method streamlines the process and saves paper.

Meal Choices

When offering meal choices, it's best to include only the main course options on the RSVP form. This gives guests flexibility in choosing their starter and dessert on the day of the wedding. However, if children are attending, it's essential to collect their meal choices as well, as they often have specific preferences.

Allergen and Special Requirements

It is crucial to consider your guests' food allergies and dietary restrictions. Include a section on your RSVP form or wedding website for guests to disclose any allergies or special requirements. This information is vital for your caterers and the wedding venue to ensure the safety and satisfaction of your guests.

RSVP Reports

Utilize the features provided by wedding website platforms, such as RSVP Reports, to easily scan and forward your guests' meal selections to your wedding venue. This ensures that the venue has a record of your guests' meal preferences and can accommodate their needs.

Timing

It's recommended to send out wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding date. This timeline allows your guests to make their meal choices and provides you with enough time to organize the information for your caterers and venue.

By collecting information on your wedding guests' food choices, allergies, and dietary requirements, you can create a seamless and personalized experience for them while also reducing food waste and streamlining the catering process.

They can be a precious keepsake

Wedding invitations are often kept as precious mementos, cherished by couples and their families for years to come. They are a tangible reminder of the joy and excitement leading up to the big day and can evoke fond memories. Many brides even choose to send an invitation to themselves, so they have a stamped, addressed keepsake for their own scrapbooks.

The wedding invitation is a physical representation of the couple's love and commitment, with carefully chosen words and designs that reflect their style and personality. It is a way to share their happiness with loved ones and invite them to be a part of their special day. For parents, in-laws, and other family members, receiving a wedding invitation is a proud moment, symbolising the growth and milestones of their children's lives.

The invitation also serves as a reminder of the wedding date and other important details, ensuring that the bridal party and guests stay informed and organised. It is a reference point for travel arrangements, accommodation bookings, and any special requirements, such as dietary needs. A beautifully designed invitation adds to the excitement and anticipation of the wedding, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.

In an age where digital communication is prevalent, receiving a physical wedding invitation in the mail is a delightful surprise. It showcases the couple's thoughtfulness and attention to detail, making each guest feel valued and appreciated. The invitation sets the tone for the entire celebration, offering a glimpse into the style and atmosphere of the upcoming nuptials. For those who attend the wedding, the invitation becomes a cherished memento, a reminder of the magical day they shared with the happy couple.

Frequently asked questions