Bridal Party Invites: Who, What, And When?

Sending out wedding invitations to your bridal party is a topic that divides opinion. Some people believe that it is unnecessary because the bridal party is already closely involved in planning the wedding and aware of the date. However, others argue that it is a formal event, and therefore formal invitations are required. Sending invitations to the bridal party can also be a nice gesture and a way for them to receive a keepsake invitation.

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

When it comes to weddings, it's a once-in-a-lifetime event (hopefully!) and a formal occasion, so it's only right that formal invitations are sent out to the bridal party. While it may seem redundant, especially if the bridal party is closely involved in the planning, a formal invitation is a lovely gesture and a keepsake. It's a chance for the bridal party to have a physical reminder of the date, and it ensures that everyone is clear on the details.

It's also a chance to collect information on guests' dietary requirements, and other important details. Formal invitations are also a chance to showcase your wedding style and theme, and they are a crucial logistical element. They are the first glimpse your guests will have of your big day and will help them to plan and make travel arrangements.

It's traditional to send out invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding, and it's also traditional to include a response card and any other helpful information for guests, such as a reception card, travel and accommodation details, and dress code.

While digital invitations are an option, they don't align with traditional wedding etiquette. However, some couples may prefer this eco-friendly approach, and it can be a good idea to offer a digital option for tech-savvy guests, alongside a physical invitation.

So, for a formal event, a formal invitation is a must. It's a chance to get your guests excited, and it ensures that everyone is clear on the details, and it's a lovely keepsake for all involved.

It's a nice gesture, even if they're closely involved in planning

Sending wedding invitations to your bridal party is a lovely gesture, even if they are closely involved in the planning. While it may seem redundant, your bridal party will appreciate receiving a formal invitation as a memento of the day. It's a chance for them to feel special and celebrated, too.

It's important to remember that a wedding invitation is more than just a piece of paper; it's a symbol of inclusion and a token of your appreciation for your bridal party's support and participation in your special day. They will likely want to keep the invitation as a souvenir, perhaps even adding it to their scrapbook.

Additionally, sending invitations to your bridal party ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding the wedding details. Even if they are closely involved in the planning, it's always helpful to have a physical reminder of the date, time, and location of the wedding. It also allows them to provide any necessary information, such as dietary restrictions or the names of their guests, which can be collected through the RSVP process.

Furthermore, sending invitations to your bridal party is a way to make them feel valued and appreciated. It shows that you consider them important guests at your wedding, not just part of the wedding logistics. This small gesture can go a long way in making your bridal party feel recognised and celebrated.

Lastly, it's worth noting that some members of your bridal party may appreciate the formality of a wedding invitation, especially if they are traditionalists. By sending them an invitation, you are respecting their values and preferences, which can strengthen your bond.

It's a good reminder for bridal party members and their partners

Sending wedding invitations to your bridal party is a good idea, even though it may seem redundant. It is a formal event, so it requires formal invitations. It is a nice gesture and a good reminder for bridal party members and their partners of the upcoming event and the dates. It also allows them to put something on their fridge and feel included.

Additionally, it is a good way to collect information on their guests, food choices, allergies, and dietary requirements. It is also a chance to showcase your wedding invitations, especially if you have put a lot of effort into designing them.

Even if some bridal party members are closely involved in the planning process, they will still appreciate receiving an invite as a memento and a reminder of the day. It is a chance for them to feel special and valued for their contributions to your wedding.

So, while it may seem unnecessary, sending invitations to your bridal party and their partners is a thoughtful gesture that can help with logistics and make your bridal party feel appreciated.

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

It is important to send wedding invitations to your bridal party. While they are obviously aware of the wedding, it is still a nice gesture to send them a formal invite. This will also allow you to collect information on their guests, food choices, and any other details you may need.

Collecting Guest Information

Firstly, you can include an RSVP card with your invitations, which will allow guests to indicate their meal choices and any dietary restrictions or allergies. This ensures that your caterers are well-prepared and that your guests feel considered. You can also use this opportunity to collect information on guests' partners or plus-ones.

Online Collection Methods

Another way to collect information on food choices is to create a wedding website with an online RSVP form. This allows guests to submit their meal preferences in advance, which can then be forwarded to your wedding venue. This method also enables you to collect information on children's meals and any allergens or special requirements.

Visual Aids

When indicating meal choices, it is important to use clear and distinct markers to avoid confusion. Different colours, symbols, or images can be used to represent each option. For example, you could use colourful silk ribbons, different coloured keys, mini photos, or place cards with varied colours or images.

Seating Arrangements

To ensure that guests take their escort cards to their seats, you can place a framed note at the entrance, instructing them to place the cards at their table settings. This will help the servers identify each guest's meal choice. Alternatively, you can include the meal choices directly on the escort cards, such as under the guest's name and table number.

Timing

It is recommended to send out wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to respond and allows you to collect the necessary information for your venue and caterers.

By combining these methods, you can effectively collect information on your bridal party and their guests' food choices, ensuring a well-organised and enjoyable wedding celebration.

You can include a link to your wedding website

While it may seem redundant to send formal wedding invitations to your bridal party, it is still a good idea to do so. This is because they are still guests at your wedding and it is a nice gesture for them to receive an invite to remember the day. It is also a good way to ensure they have all the information they need, such as the date, time, and location of the wedding.

One way to provide additional information to your bridal party and other guests is to include a link to your wedding website on your invitations. This can be a simple URL or a QR code that guests can scan with their smartphones. Your wedding website can include details such as:

• The wedding registry: Including registry information on your wedding invitations or save-the-dates is considered impolite as it can give the impression that you are asking for gifts. Instead, you can provide this information on your wedding website.
• Dress code: You can include your desired dress code on your wedding website, especially if you do not want to state it explicitly on the invitation. Your invitation design can also give guests an idea of the dress code, with traditional invitations hinting at a formal event and playful invitations suggesting a more casual style.
• Wedding itinerary: If you have a jam-packed wedding weekend with multiple events, you can include a separate itinerary card with your invitations or welcome bags. However, if you prefer to keep things simple, you can just state "reception to follow" on your invitations and provide more details on your wedding website.
• Accommodation and travel information: If you have guests travelling from out of town, it is helpful to provide information on local accommodation and transportation options on your wedding website. This is especially useful if you have blocked hotel rooms or arranged transportation for your guests.
• RSVP information: Many couples are now taking a digital-first approach and asking guests to RSVP through their wedding website. This can be more convenient for both the couple and the guests, especially if you have a large number of responses to manage.

By including a link to your wedding website on your invitations, you can provide your bridal party and other guests with easy access to important information and updates. This can help ensure that everyone is well-informed and prepared for your big day.

Frequently asked questions