Creating A Wedding Rsvp Website: A Simple Guide

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but creating a wedding website can help reduce that stress. A wedding website can serve as a valuable resource for your guests, providing them with everything from an RSVP form to an FAQs section. In this article, we'll cover the steps to creating a wedding RSVP website, from choosing a website builder and template to customizing your site and sharing it with your guests. We'll also discuss the benefits of having a wedding website and how it can simplify the planning process.

Choose a website builder and template

When creating a wedding website, the first step is to choose a website builder and template. A user-friendly website builder can help you figure out how to make a site in a matter of minutes. Wix, for example, is a popular choice because it includes a drag-and-drop editor as well as step-by-step instructions, even if you don't know how to code. Wix will recommend the best templates and features to use, ensuring that your site not only looks good but also includes essential capabilities.

You can browse a variety of wedding website templates and choose one that matches your aesthetic. Spend some time looking at other wedding websites for inspiration. You may be surprised at how creative couples have been with their websites. Wix, for instance, offers a range of templates, from soft and whimsical to modern and photography-based.

Other website builders and templates to consider include:

• WeddingWire: This platform offers an RSVP application that can be added to your wedding website. It integrates with your guest list, allowing guests to RSVP for specific events and meal choices.
• WithJoy: WithJoy offers hundreds of beautiful website designs with matching prints or online wedding invitations. Their templates are highly customizable, allowing you to unleash your creativity or keep it simple. You can choose any colour and find the perfect font to suit your style.
• TheKnot: TheKnot offers free wedding websites with over 100 designs, most of which have coordinating wedding invitations, save-the-dates, place cards, and more. You can also purchase a custom domain for your wedding website through them.
• Zola: Zola provides customizable template designs that can be matched with your invitations. Their websites are loved by couples and guests alike, as they make it easy to update guests, manage RSVPs, and shop the registry.
• Minted: Minted offers free wedding websites with guest list management, online RSVPs, cash registries, matching wedding stationery, and more. They also provide a custom URL upgrade for $15.

When choosing a website builder and template, consider your desired level of customisation, ease of use, and the features that are important to you, such as RSVP management, guest list management, and registry integration.

Add wedding details

Adding wedding details to your website is a crucial step in ensuring your guests have all the information they need. Here are some key points to include when adding wedding details to your website:

The Couple's Story

Share your love story with your guests. This can be done through a dedicated "Our Story" page, where you introduce yourselves and narrate how you met and your journey as a couple. It adds a personal touch and helps guests, especially those who may only know one half of the couple, feel more connected to your story.

Wedding Date and Timeline

Provide the wedding date and start time. If you have a packed day or weekend with multiple events, a detailed timeline will help your guests know what to expect and when. Be sure to include any pre-ceremony gatherings like a rehearsal dinner and post-wedding festivities like a brunch. It is also a good idea to password-protect exclusive events like the rehearsal dinner so only the relevant guests have access to those details.

Dress Code

Once you've decided on the look or theme for your wedding, share it with your guests. Providing general guidelines and specific examples or recommendations will ensure your guests arrive dressed appropriately for the occasion.

Location and Travel Information

Share the names and addresses of the ceremony and reception locations. Embedding a Google Map is extremely helpful so guests can easily navigate to the venues. If there is a shuttle or other transportation available, be sure to include those details. Also, provide parking information, shuttle pickup, and drop-off areas.

For out-of-town guests, offer information on the nearest airport and accommodation options. If you have reserved a block of rooms at a discounted rate, include those details, and let guests know the process to take advantage of the deal.

Registry Information

Make it easy for your guests to find your registry by including it on your wedding website. You can include it on multiple pages, such as the homepage, FAQs, and a dedicated Registry/Honeymoon Fund/Donations page. This way, guests won't have to search through messages or ask you for the details.

RSVP Details

Provide clear instructions on how to RSVP, whether it's through a form on your website or a mailed card. Specify an RSVP deadline, and if you're expecting mailed responses, include the address where they should be sent.

FAQs

Anticipate your guests' questions and create an FAQ page to provide friendly guidance and tips. This will save you from having to answer numerous individual queries. Here are some potential questions to include:

• What's the best way to get to the venue?
• Is there ample parking available?
• Will there be a shuttle service?
• Is the venue indoors or outdoors?
• What is the dress code/attire suggestion?
• Will the wedding be postponed or adjusted in case of inclement weather?
• What time will the wedding end?
• Can I bring a plus-one?
• Can I bring my children?
• Are there any restrictions on photography or social media usage during the ceremony?
• Will there be an open bar at the reception?
• Who should I inform about dietary restrictions or food allergies?
• Where can I find your registry?
• Are there any recommended activities or places to visit in the area, especially if guests are arriving early?
• Where are the best places to get coffee, breakfast, or other meals in town?

Include an FAQ section

An FAQ section is a great way to ensure your wedding guests have all their questions answered and can be a real time-saver for you. It's a good idea to include a mix of practical and more unusual questions, and their answers, to ensure your guests are well-informed.

• What’s the best way to get to the venue?
• Is there plenty of parking available?
• Will there be a shuttle available?
• Is the venue indoors or outdoors?
• Will the wedding be postponed if there’s bad weather?
• What’s the RSVP deadline?
• Can I bring a plus-one?
• Can I bring my kids?
• Can I take pictures during the ceremony?
• Will there be an open bar at the reception?
• Who do I tell about my dietary restrictions or food allergies?
• Where can I find your gift registry?
• I’m coming into town early. Is there anything fun to do or see in the area?
• Where’s the best place to get coffee and breakfast in town?

You could also add some more light-hearted questions, such as how you met, how you got engaged, and any other fun stories about your relationship.

The FAQ section is a great opportunity to inject some personality into your website and get your guests excited about your big day. It's also a good idea to keep the answers concise and to the point, so guests can find the information they need quickly and easily.

Add an RSVP form

Adding an RSVP form to your wedding website is one of the biggest benefits of creating a digital invitation. It's a great way to keep track of responses and manage your guest list. Here are some tips to help you add an RSVP form to your wedding website:

Use a dedicated RSVP application:

Some wedding website platforms, like WeddingWire, offer a dedicated RSVP application that can be added to your website. This allows guests to RSVP online and makes it easier for you to track responses.

Configure the RSVP application:

When setting up your RSVP application, be sure to configure it according to your needs. Select the events you want guests to RSVP for, meal choices (if applicable), and how guests can search for themselves on your website (by first name, last name, or both).

Add guests to your guest list:

For the RSVP application to work properly, you must add guests to your guest list and specific events they are invited to. This helps the application match guests' names when they go to RSVP.

Track invitations:

Enable the "Track Invitations" feature in your event settings. This will allow you to keep track of who has been invited and their response status.

Update meal selections:

If you're offering meal choices, be sure to update the selections in your event settings. Delete the meals you are not offering and add any new options. That way, guests can choose their meal preferences when they RSVP.

Share your wedding website:

Once your RSVP form is set up, be sure to share your wedding website with your guests via email or on your save-the-date cards. Provide clear instructions on how to RSVP and any deadlines they need to be aware of.

Collect basic details and more:

Use your RSVP form to collect basic details such as the guest's name, their plus-one's name, and whether they are attending. You can also collect additional information like contact information, meal preferences, dietary restrictions, and any special requirements they may have.

By following these steps, you'll be able to create a seamless RSVP experience for your guests and make it easier to manage your guest list and plan your wedding accordingly.

Share the website with guests

Now that you've created your wedding website, it's time to share it with your guests! Here are some tips to ensure smooth sharing and a great guest experience:

Choose a Sharing Method

Decide how you want to share your wedding website with your guests. You can include the URL on printed invitations, add it to an online invitation, or share it via email. If most of your social media followers are friends or family, you can also share the link on your social media platforms. This is a great way to create and promote a wedding hashtag, which guests can use to share their pre-wedding and wedding-day posts.

Make it Accessible

Consider whether you want your wedding website to be public or private. A public website can be viewed by anyone online, while a private website requires a password or invitation to access. If you choose to make it private, be sure to provide guests with the necessary login details or password.

Utilize Features for Guest Convenience

Your wedding website should be a one-stop shop for all the information your guests need. Include an FAQ page to answer common questions about attire, transportation, parking, accommodations, and more. Provide a clear event timeline, including pre-ceremony and post-wedding events, to keep guests informed. If there are exclusive events like a rehearsal dinner, you can use password protection to control access.

Encourage RSVPs

Your wedding website makes it easy for guests to RSVP. Include an RSVP form or page, and consider sending reminder messages with links to the RSVP page. You can also add a custom URL or button that directs guests to the RSVP section. Make sure to provide clear instructions on how to RSVP, especially if you're using an online form.

Keep it Updated

Your wedding website should be a dynamic resource for your guests. Update it regularly with any changes or additions to the schedule, travel information, or other relevant details. If there are last-minute changes, your website is a great way to communicate them quickly and efficiently.

Remember, your wedding website is a valuable tool for both you and your guests. It simplifies communication, provides essential information, and helps you manage RSVPs and guest queries. By following these tips, you'll be able to effectively share your website and ensure a seamless experience for your guests.

Frequently asked questions