The Art Of Wedding Invitations: Design And Style Guide

Wedding invitations are the first glimpse guests will have of your special day, so it's important to get them right. They should reflect the personal style of the couple and give a taste of what's to come. But what exactly should they include? Here's a quick guide to the essential components of a wedding invitation.

What to include

Wedding invitations can be as detailed or as simple as you like, as long as you include the essential information. This includes the date, time, location, dress code, and RSVP details. Here is a comprehensive list of what to include in your wedding invitations:

Host Names

The host is usually the person or couple paying for the event. Traditionally, this would be the parents of the bride, but if the couple is hosting, or feeling like the invitation is coming directly from them, then their names can go down as hosts.

Invitation Sentence

A warm sentence inviting guests to the wedding, such as "Request the Pleasure of Your Company", "Invite You to Celebrate the Marriage of", or "Request the Honour of Your Presence" if the ceremony is in a place of worship.

Couple's Names

The couple's names are included, with the woman's name usually coming first for heterosexual couples. However, the order of names can be alphabetical, by age, or however, the couple chooses. LGBTQIA+ couples may also choose to order their names alphabetically, by age, or in another way that feels right.

Date and Time of the Wedding

The date and time of the wedding should be included, with the time written out in full rather than using numerals for formal invitations.

Location of the Ceremony and Reception

The name and location of the ceremony and reception venue should be included. If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, a simple line like "Reception to Follow" or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow" can be added. If the reception is at a different location, a separate reception card with the start time and address is needed.

RSVP Card or Instructions for Digital RSVP

An RSVP card with a pre-addressed, stamped envelope should be included, or instructions for a digital RSVP. A specific date for guests to respond by is also included, usually three to four weeks before the wedding date.

Extra Information about the Venue

If the wedding is at a unique venue, extra information can be included, such as instructions for parking or a custom map of the area.

Wedding Website Address

The wedding website is a helpful resource for guests, which can include important details such as accommodation and registry information.

Envelope Information

The guests' names, titles, and addresses should be included on the wedding invitation envelope. The return address should also be included on the back flap of the outer envelope and on the front of the reply card envelope.

Other Optional Details

Other optional details that can be included are:

• Directions to the venue and a map
• Transport and accommodation information
• Itinerary for a multi-day wedding
• Gifting information
• Whether children are welcome

Design and key information

Wedding invitations are a fun and creative way to share essential information about your wedding with your guests. They are often the first impression your guests will have of your wedding, so it's important to make them shine. Here are some key design and information tips to consider:

Design

The design of your wedding invitation should reflect the personal style of the couple and give guests a taste of what to expect on the big day. Consider the wedding theme and try to incorporate it into the invitation design. For example, if you're having a rustic-style wedding, you might choose invitations with a rustic or natural feel. The same goes for a tropical wedding—choose invitations that evoke a sense of tropical getaway.

You can also add a personal touch by including your wedding colours or a motif in the design. Play with different fonts, text sizes, and shades to create a unique look. If you're feeling creative, you can even try your hand at calligraphy for the invitations or envelopes.

If you're not sure where to start, browse online templates or work with a stationer to bring your vision to life. Websites like Minted, Zola, Artifact Uprising, and Zazzle offer user-friendly design tools and countless customisation options.

Key Information

While the design is important, the primary purpose of wedding invitations is to convey essential information to your guests. Here are the key details you should include:

• Couple's names: Be sure to include the full names of both individuals getting married. For heterosexual couples, the woman's name typically comes first, but you can order the names however you prefer. For LGBTQIA+ couples, you can order alphabetically, by age, or however you see fit.
• Date and time of the ceremony: Clearly state the date and time of the wedding ceremony, including the hour and time of day (a.m. vs. p.m.) to avoid any confusion.
• Ceremony and reception location: Include the name and address of the ceremony and reception venues, especially if they are at different locations. If they are at the same spot, you can simply add a line like "Reception to Follow".
• RSVP information: Provide a way for guests to RSVP, such as a response card, a phone number, email, or your wedding website. Include a deadline for RSVPs, usually about three to four weeks before the wedding.
• Dress code: While not mandatory, including the dress code expectations can be helpful for your guests. This could range from "Casual Attire" to "Black Tie".
• Extra details: Consider adding an insert with additional information such as parking options, directions, accommodation suggestions, and any specific theme or dress code details.

Remember, the key to successful wedding invitations is to provide your guests with all the information they need while also reflecting your personal style and the tone of your wedding.

RSVP and response card

The RSVP card is a crucial component of the wedding invitation suite. It is a small but significant piece that allows the couple to confirm their attendee numbers and finalise their plans. Here is a guide on what to include and consider when creating your RSVP and response cards.

Timing

It is important to send your RSVP card back as soon as possible. This allows the couple to plan effectively and gives them time to adjust their plans if needed. It is also considerate to send the card back promptly to avoid the couple having to chase a response.

Names

The response card should include the names of those attending. It is important to use full names and titles, for example, Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. This allows the couple to create place cards and seating charts. If only the first initial is included, such as "M", this is intended to indicate the title, and guests should write out their full title and name.

Number of Guests

The response card should indicate the number of guests attending. If a plus one has been offered, this is the guest's opportunity to confirm their attendance and provide their name. It is important not to add additional guests to the RSVP, only those invited should respond and/or attend.

Food Choices

If food choices are offered, guests should indicate their preferences and any dietary restrictions. This allows the couple to share this information with the caterer.

Well Wishes

The response card can also be used to include a thoughtful note expressing excitement for the wedding. This is a nice way to show the couple that their hard work is appreciated.

No RSVP Card

If there is no RSVP card included with the invitation, guests should look for other details on how to respond. This may be an online RSVP or the inclusion of a phone number or email address.

Declining an Invitation

It is important to respond to an invitation, even if declining. A simple "No" or "Regrets" is appropriate, and it is considerate to include a gift from the couple's registry. It is also polite to send a handwritten note or make a personal call to the couple if you are unable to attend.

Changing Your RSVP

If you need to change your RSVP, it is important to let the couple know as soon as possible. This can impact their planning and they may have already given final numbers to vendors.

In summary, the RSVP and response card play a crucial role in wedding planning. Guests should respond promptly, providing their full names, the number of guests, food choices, and any well wishes. It is important to follow the couple's instructions and chosen method of response to ensure a smooth planning process.

Directions and lodgings

Directions

It is always a good idea to include a separate direction card to ensure your guests can find the venue with ease. While many people use Google Maps, phone batteries can die, or there may be signal issues, causing delays. This is especially important if your venue is in a remote location or is difficult to find. A custom map or weekend itinerary can add a unique and intimate touch to your invitations, and they also make great keepsakes.

Lodgings

If you are providing guest accommodations, include a separate card with hotel options and a deadline for making reservations. It is also helpful to include transportation details to and from the hotels to the wedding venue. If you are covering guest accommodations, this should be noted on the accommodations card.

Other Tips

• If your wedding spans a whole weekend with multiple events, include a separate card with a full itinerary.
• If your wedding is in a unique venue, consider including an insert with extra information, such as parking instructions.
• If your wedding is a destination wedding, give your guests plenty of time by sending out save-the-dates and invitations early.
• For destination weddings, it is helpful to include online travel information and other details for navigating foreign destinations.
• If your ceremony and reception are in the same location, you can simply include a line like "Reception to follow" or "Dinner and dancing to follow." If they are in different locations, include a separate reception card with the address and start time.

Envelopes

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of your special day. The envelope is the first thing your guests will see, so it's important to make a good impression and ensure all the necessary information is included. Here is a comprehensive guide to assembling your wedding invitation envelopes:

Inner Envelope:

The inner envelope is an optional addition that enables you to further personalise your stationery. It goes inside the outer envelope and holds the invitation itself, as well as any other inserts. This is where you can include the names of specific guests and their plus-ones, or indicate "and Guest" if they are invited to bring anyone. If you want to specify whether children are invited, you can address the envelope to "The [Last Name of the Family]" if children are included, or just the parents' names if it's adults-only. Inner envelopes also add an elegant touch to your invitation suite.

Outer Envelope:

The outer envelope is necessary to contain and protect all your invitation materials during mailing. These should be sturdy enough to hold the weight of your inserts while still complementing your wedding theme and colour scheme. You can choose from simple, standard envelopes or opt for custom-made envelopes that match your invitations. Some invitation packages include the cost of envelopes, while others charge extra. Remember to consider the weight of your invitation suite, as heavier bundles may require extra postage.

Return Address:

Don't forget to include your return address on both the outer envelope and the response card envelope. You can have these printed by a stationer, hire a calligrapher, or create custom self-inking rubber stamps or stickers.

Guest Addressing:

Ensure you have the correct spelling and preferred titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss, or the gender-neutral Mx.) of your guests before addressing the envelopes. It's also a good idea to ask for their last names, as not all married couples share a surname. Confirm addresses early on to avoid any confusion. If you're unsure about someone's address, reach out to them personally to request it.

Postage:

Take a fully assembled invitation suite to the post office to determine the exact postage required. Different weights and sizes may necessitate additional postage, and special features like wax seals will also impact the cost.

Mailing:

When mailing your invitations, request that the stamps be hand-cancelled rather than machine-cancelled to avoid unsightly marks on your carefully chosen envelopes.

Timing:

Remember to allow enough time for your invitations to be assembled, addressed, and mailed. For destination weddings or if some guests are travelling from another country, send your invitations earlier to give them ample time to plan their travel arrangements.

Envelope Liners and Seals:

Add a luxurious touch to your envelopes with liners or seals. Envelope liners can be made from translucent vellum paper, featuring floral prints or custom venue sketches, while wax seals or self-adhesive envelope seals add a sophisticated finish.

Customisation:

If you want to go the extra mile, consider customising your envelopes with your own design or the names and addresses of your guests in a font, size, style, and colour of your choice. This will save you time and make your invitations extra special.

Envelope Sizes:

Finally, ensure you select envelopes that are the correct size for your invitations and inserts. Standard sizes include C5, C6, C7, DL, square, 5x7, and RSVP.

Happy planning, and may your wedding day be perfect!

Frequently asked questions