Encouraging Designated Drivers: A Wedding Invitation Etiquette

Encouraging guests to have a designated driver at a wedding is a tricky topic. While some people suggest putting a statement on the accommodations page of the wedding website, others believe that this won't change behaviour. A more subtle approach could be to include the information about room blocks, shuttles, and taxi contacts on the wedding website or as a separate insert card in the invitation suite. This way, guests have the option to arrange their own transportation without feeling accused or policed. Ultimately, it is important to remember that guests are adults and it is not the couple's responsibility to ensure they don't drink and drive.

Include a designated driver request on the accommodation page of your wedding website

It's important to consider the safety of your guests when planning your wedding, especially if alcohol will be served. Here are some tips for including a designated driver request on the accommodation page of your wedding website:

Firstly, it's advisable to provide guests with a clear and convenient option for getting home safely. This could be in the form of a shuttle service or by providing a list of reliable taxi companies, including contact information, on your wedding website. You could also have these taxi company details available at the bar during the reception. Additionally, consider whether guests who drive to the venue will need their cars the next day, and if they can leave them overnight without getting towed. This information should be communicated to your guests.

Secondly, while it's important to encourage guests to plan ahead and consider their transportation options, it's also recommended to have someone responsible on the day who can keep an eye on guests and intervene if necessary. This could be a trusted friend or family member who can offer to call a cab for anyone who appears too intoxicated to drive.

When it comes to wording, it's best to be direct and explicit. You could include a statement on your accommodation page such as: "We request that guests who plan on drinking make arrangements for a safe journey home. Please consider booking a room or utilising the taxi companies listed below." It's also a good idea to include a reminder about this on the day, either through an announcement by the MC or DJ, or by having signs at the bar listing shuttle or taxi information.

Finally, remember that while you can encourage guests to act responsibly, you cannot control their behaviour. It is each guest's responsibility to make sensible decisions, and as the host, your priority should be to provide them with the necessary information and resources to do so.

Make an announcement at the reception

Making an announcement at the reception is a great way to encourage your wedding guests to use a designated driver. Here are some ideas on how to do this effectively:

Emphasise the Importance of a Designated Driver

Explain to your guests the importance of choosing a designated driver, or DD. Share some statistics or personal stories to illustrate the dangers of drunk driving. For example, you could mention that within the United States, more than one person dies every hour in a motor vehicle crash involving an alcohol-impaired driver. You could also share a story, like the one about the wedding guest who chose to drive and got a DUI, as well as the potential legal consequences. This will help your guests understand the seriousness of the issue and why they should either abstain from drinking or choose a DD.

Provide Alternatives to Driving

Offer suggestions for alternative transportation methods. For instance, you could recommend ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft, especially if there are multiple people needing rides. Provide information about local taxi companies and their contact details, and perhaps even negotiate discounted rates for your guests. If possible, consider providing a shuttle service or arranging for a limo to transport your guests to and from the venue. Another option is to suggest that guests use designated driver services, where a professional driver will take them home in their own car.

Encourage Guests to Plan Ahead

Gently remind your guests to plan ahead and make arrangements before they start drinking. Emphasise that once alcohol consumption has begun, it becomes much harder to make rational decisions and choose a DD. Encourage guests to take turns being the DD so that everyone can have a chance to enjoy the celebration without worrying about driving. Suggest that they designate a reliable person who will either agree to come and pick everyone up when called or stay at the venue and remain sober.

Offer Incentives

Work with the venue or bar to provide incentives for designated drivers. For example, offer free or discounted non-alcoholic beverages to DDs. This will not only encourage guests to choose a DD but also help those who are abstaining from alcohol feel included in the celebration. You could also have some fun non-alcoholic drink options available, such as fancy mocktails, to make it more enjoyable for those who are staying sober.

Make it a Group Effort

Encourage your guests to look out for one another and support those who have chosen to be DDs. Suggest that they invite a DD to join them and emphasise that a DD can be anyone who doesn't plan to drink alcohol. This could be a friend, neighbour, or family member. By creating an environment of mutual support and encouragement, you can help ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at your wedding.

Put up signs at the bar listing shuttle times

Putting up signs at the bar listing the shuttle times is a great way to encourage your wedding guests to use the service and not drink and drive. Here are some tips to maximise the effectiveness of your signs:

Clear and Concise Information:

Keep the content short and sweet so that guests can quickly understand the key details. Include the exact shuttle times, pick-up and drop-off locations, and any other relevant information. For example: "Shuttle Service: Departing from [Pick-up Location] every hour starting at 8 pm. Last shuttle at midnight."

Consistent Wording:

Ensure that the wording on the signs matches the language used in other communication outlets, such as your wedding website, invitation inserts, or verbal announcements. This consistency will help reinforce the message and reduce confusion.

Eye-Catching Design:

Use a simple and clear font, with a font size that is easy to read from a distance. Consider adding a border or a coloured background to make the sign stand out. You could also include a symbol or icon, such as a bus or clock image, to visually represent the shuttle times.

Strategic Placement:

Place the signs in prominent locations at the bar, ensuring they are visible to guests as they approach the bar area. Consider laminating the signs or placing them in frames to make them more noticeable and durable.

Additional Information:

In addition to the shuttle times, you may want to include a brief message about the benefits of using the shuttle service, such as "Please enjoy our complimentary shuttle service and drink responsibly." You could also add a friendly reminder about the importance of designated drivers, such as "Thank you for not drinking and driving. We appreciate your commitment to safety."

By implementing these suggestions, you can effectively communicate the shuttle times to your guests and encourage the use of designated drivers. It's a thoughtful and considerate gesture that will allow your guests to relax and fully enjoy your special day.

Include an insert in the invitations with local taxi information

If you're concerned about drinking and driving at your wedding, one way to encourage designated drivers is to include an insert in your invitations with local taxi information. Here are some tips on how to do this:

Firstly, create a separate insert card for the taxi information. This will ensure that your guests don't miss any important details and will also avoid overcrowding your invitations with too much information. You can include a simple message such as "Please enjoy yourselves responsibly. We are not liable for any of your actions due to your consumption of alcohol." and provide a list of local taxi companies or ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft. If there are any specific instructions for contacting these companies, be sure to include those as well.

Additionally, you can include a map with the invitation, marking the location of the wedding venue and the nearest taxi stands or pick-up points for ride-sharing services. This will help your guests easily identify where they can find a designated driver. You could also include information about the availability of taxis or ride-sharing services at the time your wedding is scheduled to end, so your guests can plan their transportation in advance.

Another idea is to include a gentle reminder about the importance of designated drivers. You could say something like "Your safety is our priority. Please don't drink and drive. Here are some local taxi services you can use:" followed by the list of taxi companies. This approach not only provides practical information but also expresses your concern for your guests' well-being.

Furthermore, if you have a wedding website, you can include a section dedicated to transportation and designated drivers. Provide the same taxi information there, along with any updates or additional options that may become available closer to the wedding date. This way, your guests can easily access this information digitally, and you can also include a QR code on the insert card that directs them to this page on your website.

Lastly, it is important to remember that while providing this information is helpful, ultimately, your guests are responsible for their own actions. You can also consider other measures to prevent drinking and driving, such as providing a shuttle service or arranging accommodation within walking distance of the venue for your guests. By combining these measures with the insert in your invitations, you can encourage designated drivers and ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at your wedding.

Provide a shuttle service for guests

Providing a shuttle service for your wedding guests is a thoughtful way to ensure their comfort and safety, and can even add a touch of luxury to their experience. Here are some tips to help you plan and execute this service seamlessly:

Choose the Right Vehicle

Select a vehicle that suits your wedding theme and the number of guests you need to transport. Minibuses are a popular choice as they are cost-effective and can accommodate large groups. They also allow for decorations and special amenities like champagne and music. If you have a smaller group, a luxury van or limo could be a stylish option.

Plan the Logistics

Consider the distance between the hotel and your wedding venue, and the timing of your event. Work with your shuttle service provider to create a schedule that ensures guests arrive on time. Account for loading and unloading time, as well as potential traffic delays. If you have a large guest list, you may need to arrange multiple vehicles or trips.

Communicate with Your Guests

Inform your guests about the shuttle service in advance, either through your wedding website or invitation inserts. Provide clear instructions on where and when to board, and consider including a shuttle schedule. This ensures that your guests can plan their transportation accordingly and arrive punctually.

Enhance the Experience

You can elevate the shuttle experience by offering refreshments and entertainment. From champagne towsn:0,1,2,3,4,5 and music to decorative touches that match your wedding theme, these additions will make the shuttle ride memorable. You can also provide guests with a comfortable ride back to their accommodations after the reception, ensuring their safety and convenience.

Book in Advance

Don't leave booking your shuttle service to the last minute. Secure your transportation well in advance, especially if your wedding is during peak season. This ensures you have a better selection of vehicles and can accommodate your preferred schedule.

By following these suggestions, you can effectively provide a shuttle service for your wedding guests, ensuring their comfort, safety, and enjoyment throughout your special day.

Frequently asked questions