Wedding Invite Cards: Filling Out Etiquette And Tips

Filling out a wedding invitation card is a simple task, but it's important to get it right to ensure your guests have all the information they need. The basic requirements for a wedding invitation are the full names of the couple, the date and time of the ceremony and reception, the names and locations of the venues, and how to RSVP. It's also a good idea to include the dress code and any additional information such as transport or accommodation options. The invitation should be sent out six to eight weeks before the wedding, and the RSVP deadline should be three to four weeks before the big day.

How to word the invite

There are a few key elements to include when wording a wedding invitation. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Host Line: Traditionally, the bride's parents are the hosts and their names are listed at the top of the invitation. However, it has become common to include the names of both sets of parents, especially if they are contributing financially. If the couple is hosting the wedding themselves, the host line can be omitted or replaced with a warm introduction such as "Together with full hearts" or "With hearts full of love and joy".
• Attendance Request: This is where you invite your guests to attend your wedding and set the tone for the celebration. Here are some examples:

• "The honour/honor of your presence" (traditionally used for religious ceremonies)
• "The pleasure of your company" (for non-religious ceremonies)
• "Invite you to celebrate with them"
• "Would love for you to join them"

• Couple's Names: The names of the couple are usually displayed in larger, prominent text. For heterosexual couples, the bride's name typically comes first, followed by the groom's name. For same-sex couples, you can list the names alphabetically or based on what looks best with the invitation design.
• Date and Time: For formal invitations, spell out the date and time in full. For example, "Saturday, the fifteenth of September, two thousand twenty-four at half after four in the afternoon". For modern or casual invitations, numerical figures can be used.
• Location: Include the name and full address of the wedding venue, including the city, state, and zip code. If the wedding is abroad, add the country as well.
• Reception Details: If the ceremony and reception are at the same venue, simply state "Reception to follow". Otherwise, provide the full address and other relevant information on a separate card.
• Dress Code (Optional): Including dress code information is helpful for guests. It is usually mentioned in the lower corner or centre of the invitation. Some examples are:

• Black-tie (tuxedos and floor-length gowns)
• Formal attire (suits and dresses)
• Cocktail attire (suit or dress shirts with ties and cocktail dresses)
• Beach casual (casual shirts, shorts, sundresses, and sandals)

Other Information: Additional details such as the wedding website or registry information are typically included on a separate insert card rather than the main invitation.

RSVP card instructions

RSVP cards are an important part of the wedding invitation process, allowing you to finalise catering counts, create a seating chart, and address guests properly on place cards. Here are some detailed instructions on how to fill out RSVP cards:

When to Respond

It is important to respond to a wedding invitation promptly, preferably within a full weekend of receiving it. If you miss the RSVP date, contact the hosts immediately and inform them of your attendance. It is also polite to send the RSVP note, especially if it includes a response card and postage. Couples often keep these notes as keepsakes.

What Information to Include

The response card usually includes three elements:

• Number of Guests Attending: Indicate the number of guests attending and their names. If there is an "M" preceding a blank space, write your social title (Mr./Mrs./Ms./Mx.) followed by your full name.
• Names of Guests: Write your name(s) exactly as they appear on the envelope. For example, if the envelope is addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. Smith", the response should state, "Mr. and Mrs. Smith".
• Personal Note: Include a short personal note to the couple. This could be well wishes, congratulations, or a simple expression of your pleasure to attend.

Filling Out Different RSVP Card Styles

There are three common styles of RSVP cards:

• With a Preprinted Response Card: This traditional style includes space for guests' names and the number of guests attending. If there are entree selections, initial your choice so the host knows who is getting what.
• Without a Preprinted Response Card: This free-form style includes a blank card for guests to write a personal message. Include your full name and the number of guests in a sentence as if speaking directly to the host, matching their formality.
• Without Any Response Card: Some invitations provide a wedding website instead of an RSVP card. Respond in the manner requested, and if no specific method is given, use your own stationery to respond.

Additional Considerations

• Plus-One: If you are given a plus-one, provide their full name when responding.
• Allergies: If you have a serious allergy, call the host after you RSVP and offer to contact the planner or caterer directly to discuss options.
• Writing Instrument: Use a pen, preferably blue or black ink. While other colours are acceptable, they may come off as juvenile.
• RSVP Deadline: The RSVP deadline is typically three to four weeks before the wedding, giving enough time to finalise the head count for catering and seating arrangements.

Remember to respond promptly, provide the necessary information, and add a personal touch to your RSVP card. These cards are often cherished keepsakes for the happy couple.

Reception details

The reception is the celebration after the wedding ceremony, and the reception details on your wedding invitation will tell your guests when and where the party is happening. If the reception is in the same location as the ceremony, you can simply write "Reception to follow" or "Dinner and dancing to follow". If the reception is at a different location, include the venue's name and address on a separate line or on a separate insert card, called a reception card.

If the reception is not immediately following the ceremony, include the time. For formal weddings, the time of day is usually spelled out, e.g. "half after four o'clock". For casual weddings, numerals are fine, e.g. "4:30 p.m.".

If the reception is in a private residence, include the street address. Otherwise, just the venue's name, city, and state are sufficient. The zip code is typically not included.

If you are not serving a full meal, you might want to include this information on your invitation. For example, "Join us after the ceremony for cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dancing".

If your wedding has a theme, you might want to reflect this in your reception details. For example, if you are hosting a rustic wedding reception, you could use a country design for your invitations.

Finally, decide whether to include RSVP cards with your invitations. If you are serving a catered meal, you will want an accurate headcount, so it is a good idea to include RSVP cards or provide an online RSVP option.

Response deadline

When it comes to wedding invitations, timing is everything. The RSVP deadline should be set two to four weeks before the wedding date. This gives you enough time to confirm the final headcount with your caterer and finalise the seating chart.

Set a Clear Deadline

Make sure the deadline is clearly stated and easy to find on the invitation. Use a legible font and consider including a countdown ticker on your wedding website if guests are RSVPing online.

Mail Invitations on Time

Send out your invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to respond and make any necessary travel arrangements. For destination weddings, mail invitations three months in advance.

Provide Pre-Addressed and Stamped Envelopes

Make it easy for your guests to respond by including pre-addressed and pre-stamped envelopes with your invitations. This small detail ensures guests have no excuses for not sending their responses promptly.

Offer Multiple Response Options

Not everyone uses snail mail these days, so it's a good idea to provide an alternative method for RSVPing. Include your wedding website address and allow guests to respond digitally if that's more convenient for them.

Be Clear and Direct

Some guests may not be familiar with the term "RSVP" or understand that a response is required, even if they are declining the invitation. Use clear wording such as, "The favour of your reply is requested by [date]." This ensures guests understand the need to respond by the specified date.

Request a Prompt Response

It's not uncommon for guests to delay responding to wedding invitations. To prevent last-minute responses, you could include a gentle reminder on the invitation, such as, "Kindly respond by [date]." This politely encourages guests to respond in a timely manner.

Remember, the key to successful wedding planning is clear and timely communication. By setting a reasonable RSVP deadline and providing guests with the necessary information and response options, you'll be well on your way to a well-organised celebration.

Dress code

When it comes to wedding invitations, the dress code is usually included in the lower right-hand corner of the invitation. Alternatively, you can include it on a separate information card or on your wedding website. Here are some examples of dress code wording for different levels of formality:

White Tie

White tie is the most formal dress code. It is usually reserved for state dinners and royal events.

"White tie. We ask that men wear tailcoats and women wear floor-length evening gowns or ball gowns. Top hats and gloves are encouraged."

Black Tie

Black tie is a step down from white tie and usually indicates a formal, evening event.

• "Black-tie. We ask that men wear a tuxedo and women wear a floor-length gown."
• "Black tie. Tuxedos for men and floor-length gowns for women. Black tie does not mean you must wear black, but traditionally men would wear a black tuxedo and a bow tie."

Black-Tie Optional

This dress code is slightly less formal than black tie, giving guests the option to dress down a little.

• "Black-tie optional. We ask that men wear a tuxedo or a dark suit and tie and women wear an evening gown or a midi or knee-length cocktail dress."
• "Formal attire. We suggest that men wear a suit in any colour and women wear a cocktail dress or a nice pantsuit."

Lounge Suit or Semi-Formal

This dress code is suitable for a semi-formal daytime wedding.

• "Lounge suit or semi-formal attire. We suggest a classic suit or tux with a tie for men and formal evening wear (floor-length dresses or evening pantsuits) for women."
• "Jacket and tie. Men can wear a sports jacket, suit jacket, or blazer with chinos and a tie. Women should wear a cocktail dress that is shorter than floor-length, a pantsuit, or dressy separates."

Cocktail Attire

Cocktail attire strikes a balance between elegant and comfortable.

• "Cocktail attire. We suggest tea-length, knee-length, or midi dresses for women and a suit and tie for men."
• "Cocktail attire. We suggest suits or dress shirts with ties for men and midi or knee-length dresses or dressy separates for women."

Smart Casual

Smart casual attire strikes a balance between dressy and casual.

"Smart casual. We suggest dark denim, chinos, or suit pants with a neat shirt for men and a skirt or smart trousers for women."

Frequently asked questions