Wedding Invites: How Many Inserts Should You Include?

Wedding invitation suites are a collection of cards and envelopes that are sent to guests to share wedding day information. The number of pieces included in a wedding invitation suite can vary depending on the couple's preferences and the amount of information they want to include. A typical wedding invitation suite includes the main invitation card, an RSVP or reply card, and envelopes for both. However, some couples choose to include additional pieces such as reception cards, direction cards, accommodation cards, and weekend events cards. These extra pieces provide guests with more detailed information about the wedding, such as the time, place, and theme of the reception, directions to the wedding venue, and accommodation options. Ultimately, the number of pieces in a wedding invitation suite depends on the couple's specific needs and the level of detail they want to provide to their guests.

RSVP card and envelope

The RSVP card and envelope are essential components of a wedding invitation suite. This is how you will gather your guest list and final numbers for your wedding. The RSVP card is necessary for guests to indicate whether or not they will be attending. The envelope, meanwhile, serves a practical purpose, protecting and presenting the card and providing a place to add stamps for return service.

There are two popular sizes for RSVP cards and envelopes: A1 and A2. A1 is the smallest size of envelope that can be mailed in the US, making it a classic choice for wedding invitations. A2 envelopes are slightly larger and are a good option if you require more detailed RSVPs, such as those that include meal choices or song requests. A2 cards can also be mailed without an envelope as postcards, which can save on postage.

When it comes to design, you can have fun with different colours and patterns. For a cohesive look, use complementary colours and patterns, and maintain consistency in font style and graphic motifs. Don't forget to include your return address on the envelope so that guests can easily send their responses.

It's also a good idea to order some extra RSVP cards and envelopes. These will come in handy if any get lost in the mail or if you need to add additional guests. You may also want to keep a few as mementos of your special day.

Reception card

A wedding reception card is a traditional way to convey information about the festivities occurring after the wedding ceremony. They are typically used when the reception takes place at a separate location from the ceremony, whether it's a religiously-based ceremony in a place of worship or a non-religious ceremony.

If your reception immediately follows the ceremony, you can simply state the location. However, if there is a gap between the two, be sure to include the start time so guests know what to expect.

You can design your reception card to match your wedding invitation. Choose a font and colour scheme that aligns with your wedding theme. You can also add graphic elements like icons, vectors, or illustrations to make your reception card more creative and fun.

Direction card

A direction card is an important addition to your wedding invitation suite, especially if you're having a destination wedding or have a handful of out-of-town guests. It ensures that your guests can find the wedding and reception locations without any hassle. While most guests will have access to GPS, a direction card can provide insider information, such as parking lot details, passcodes, or any special venue requirements. This card can also be useful for guests without smartphones or in rural locations with poor cell service.

The direction card can be designed to match the rest of your wedding invitation suite, with consistent use of colour palettes, complementary patterns, and a cohesive font style. It can be printed on the same paper as the invitation for consistency or on different coloured paper to add visual interest.

To make your direction card as informative as possible, consider including the following:

• Step-by-step directions to the wedding venue, including any relevant landmarks or nearby locations that guests can use as a reference.
• Parking instructions, including any designated parking lots or areas where parking is prohibited.
• Public transport options, if available, such as bus or train routes and nearby stops.
• Venue-specific instructions, such as passcodes, floor information, or any other special requirements that guests should be aware of.

Remember to keep the information concise and clear, ensuring that your guests have all the essential details they need to arrive at your wedding without any confusion.

Weekend events card

A wedding weekend events card is a great way to keep your guests informed about all the festivities you have planned for them. It is an opportunity to share the details of your wedding weekend, including welcome drinks, a rehearsal dinner, or a morning-after brunch.

The weekend events card is usually part of a 5, 6, or 7-piece invitation suite. It is a practical addition that shares the "need-to-know" details with your guests. This card can be customised to include the information that is most relevant to your wedding. Here are some ideas of what to include:

Logistics and Timing

Share the timing of the events, so guests know when to be where. You can include the time and date of each event, and even add in the day of the week. For example, "Welcome Drinks, Friday at 7 pm".

Location Details

Provide the address of the venue and any specific directions that might be helpful, especially if the location is rural or hard to find. You could even include a map or illustration to guide your guests.

Event Details

Give a brief description of each event. For example, "Welcome Drinks and Canapes" or "Sunday Brunch and Garden Games". This gives guests an idea of what to expect and what is on offer.

Dress Code

If you would like your guests to dress in a certain way for any of the events, you can include this information. For example, "Smart Casual" or "Black Tie".

RSVP Details

If you would like guests to RSVP for each event separately, include the details of how and when to do this. You could also include a contact name and number for any queries.

Additional Notes

You can add any other relevant information that will be useful for your guests. For example, if there will be shuttle services provided, or if there is a wedding website with further details.

A weekend events card is a great way to ensure your guests have all the information they need to enjoy the celebrations. It is a practical and informative addition to your wedding invitation suite.

Accommodations card

An accommodations card is an optional insert for your wedding invitation suite. It is a way to let your guests know that you care about them travelling in for your wedding and that you have made plans accordingly.

What to Include on an Accommodations Card

An accommodations card should include the following information:

• The hotel and its address
• The block of rooms reserved (this may include a group code or group name)
• The date the rooms must be reserved by
• The hotel's website and/or phone number
• Transportation information, if a shuttle is provided

It is not necessary to include a direct link to the hotel's booking page, as this can look complicated and messy.

Design Tips

When designing your accommodations card, it is important to maintain consistency and cohesiveness with the rest of your wedding invitation suite. This can be achieved through the use of complementary colours, patterns, fonts, and motifs.

Where to Buy Accommodations Cards

Sending an accommodations card is a simple way to show your guests that you care about their comfort and convenience. It is especially useful if you have reserved a hotel room block for your out-of-town guests or if your reception will be held at a hotel or resort where you want your guests to stay.

By including an accommodations card in your wedding invitation suite, you can provide your guests with all the information they need to book their travel plans with ease.

Frequently asked questions