Creating Electronic Wedding Invites: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding invitations are a significant part of the big day, introducing guests to the overarching design concept and theme. While printed invitations are traditional, electronic invitations are becoming an increasingly popular option. They can be a great way to save money, time, and the environment, without sacrificing style. This guide will take you through the steps of creating your own electronic wedding invitation, from choosing a platform to customising your design.

Choosing a digital wedding invitation platform

There are several online platforms that allow you to design, customise, and send digital wedding invitations. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a platform:

Design Options

The design of your wedding invitation sets the tone for your wedding and showcases your personality. Consider whether you want a simple, modern, or elegant design, and choose a platform that offers a wide range of templates to select from. Some platforms offer customisable templates, allowing you to upload your photos, change colour schemes, and add personal touches. Greetings Island, for example, offers hundreds of graphic designs with customisable options for fonts, colours, stickers, and photos.

Features

Different platforms offer various features to enhance your digital invitations. Some platforms provide RSVP tracking, allowing you to easily manage guest responses. Others may offer additional blocks of information, such as travel and accommodation details, schedules, and wedding party information. Some platforms, like Paperless Post, even allow you to create a custom URL and add photo galleries and registry blocks.

Cost

The cost of digital invitations varies depending on the platform and the number of guests. Some platforms charge per recipient, while others offer packages or coins to purchase, which can be used to add premium features. For example, Evite offers premium invitations starting at $15.99 for 15 invitations, while Greenvelope's pricing starts at $19 for up to 20 people.

Ease of Use

Consider choosing a platform that offers a user-friendly interface and a simple customisation process. This is especially important if you're short on time or not particularly tech-savvy. Platforms like Etsy offer downloadable templates that can be easily edited and uploaded to your chosen digital invitation platform.

Sustainability

If having an eco-friendly wedding is important to you, look for platforms that promote sustainability. Digital invitations are already a more environmentally friendly option than paper invitations, but some platforms take it a step further. Greetings Island, for instance, is a sustainable company that encourages paperless invitations and provides a full range of virtual options.

Additional Services

Some platforms offer additional services beyond digital invitations. For example, Bliss & Bone allows you to design both your paperless wedding invitations and your wedding website, providing a seamless experience for you and your guests.

Reviews

Before making your final decision, be sure to read reviews from other couples who have used the platform. Look for testimonials that speak to the ease of use, customisation options, customer service, and overall satisfaction with the final product.

Remember to compare the features and pricing of different platforms before making your choice. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the right digital wedding invitation platform to help you create stylish and practical invitations for your big day.

Selecting a wedding invitation design

Location and Theme

The location and theme of your wedding can guide the overall aesthetic of your invites. For example, if you're getting married in a church, you may opt for a traditional and romantic design. A rustic or natural look might suit a country or farm setting. Tropical or destination wedding? Go for a relaxed yet elegant feel. The location and theme can also influence the colour scheme and imagery used in your invitations.

Font and Typeface

Different typefaces have different qualities, and some are more suited to wedding invitations than others. Bold, blocky fonts can appear too harsh, while cursive or calligraphy fonts are excellent choices for that soft, romantic, and elegant feel. You can pair these with a serif font for the rest of the text.

Imagery and Photos

Using a photo of the happy couple is a great way to add a personal touch and showcase your love to your friends and family. It can also be a beautiful keepsake for your loved ones. When using photos, consider pairing them with watercolour textures or other design elements to create a simple yet eye-catching colour theme.

Format and Layout

There are no rules when it comes to the format and layout of your invitations. You can stick to the traditional rectangular shape and standard dimensions (4.5 inches by 6.25 inches) or switch it up with horizontal rectangles or scalloped designs. Consider a unique format, such as a "timeline" of your relationship, or incorporate personal jokes and themes that reflect your interests as a couple.

Colour Scheme

Your colour scheme will have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your invitations. It can be tricky to combine two favourite colours, so consider using tried-and-tested combinations like green and gold or pink and purple. You can also use varying shades of the same colour to add depth to your design.

Delivery Method

Before designing your invitations, consider how you'll deliver them to your guests. You can send virtual e-vites or create a mini website for a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. If you prefer the traditional route, you can print and mail your invitations, providing a special keepsake for you and your guests.

Remember, the best wedding invitations are those that feel authentic to you and your partner. By following these tips and adding your personal touches, you'll be able to create invitations that delight and dazzle your guests.

Customising your invitation

Customising your electronic wedding invitation is a fun and creative process. There are many ways to make your invitation unique and memorable, reflecting your style and personality. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Choose a Theme or Style

Decide on a theme or style that represents you as a couple. Are you classic and elegant, modern and chic, rustic and bohemian, or perhaps minimalist and monochromatic? Selecting a theme will help guide your design choices and create a cohesive look.

Colours and Fonts

Choose a colour palette that complements your wedding colours or the overall theme of your event. You can incorporate these colours into the background, text, or accents on your invitation. Play around with different fonts to find the perfect match for your style. Simple, sleek fonts work well for modern invitations, while script fonts add a touch of elegance to classic designs.

Personal Touches

Add a personal touch by including your uploaded photos, featured or overlaid with text. This could be an engagement photo or a monogram of your initials. You can also incorporate a signature pattern or a font that you plan to use on other wedding stationery, such as place cards or menus.

Text and Wording

Include all the essential information, such as the full names of the couple, the date, time, and locations of the ceremony and reception, and details on how to RSVP. You can also add a personal message or a fun quote to make your invitation unique. If you're having a themed wedding, you can incorporate this into the wording of your invitation.

RSVP and Accommodation Details

Make it easy for your guests to respond by including a clear RSVP deadline date and providing a link to your wedding website or an email address for responses. If your wedding is in a remote location or requires travel, consider adding a Travel or Accommodations Block to provide venue locations, directions, nearby airports, hotel recommendations, and room rates.

Matching Suite

Create a cohesive look by using the same design for your save-the-dates, invitations, wedding website, and even thank-you cards. This will give your guests a seamless experience and showcase your attention to detail.

Digital Envelope and Liners

Add a virtual envelope and liners to your digital invitation to create a sense of anticipation for your guests. You can customise the envelope with colours or patterns that match your theme, and even add glitter or gold accents for a touch of luxury.

Remember, your electronic wedding invitation is a chance to showcase your creativity and give your guests a sneak peek of your special day. Have fun with the customisation process and don't be afraid to experiment with different ideas!

Sending your invitation

Now that you've designed your digital wedding invitation, it's time to send it out! There are several ways to do this, including email, text message, or a shareable link. You can also use online invitation platforms that allow you to upload your custom design and send it to your guests. These platforms often offer additional features such as RSVP tracking, event reminders, and custom envelopes.

One popular way to send digital wedding invitations is via email. Simply attach your invitation and press send. This option is convenient as you already have your guests' email addresses, and it's easy to keep things paperless.

If you want to send your invitation via text message, there are platforms that offer SMS delivery for digital invitations. This option is especially useful if you have many guests who prefer communicating via text message.

Another option is to use a shareable link. You can send the link to your guests via email or text message, and they can click on it to view the invitation. This method allows you to include more information, such as a virtual envelope, and makes the invitation feel more special.

You can also use online invitation platforms to send your digital wedding invitations. These platforms offer various features, such as:

• RSVP tracking: This allows you to keep track of who has responded and makes it easy to follow up with guests who haven't responded yet.
• Event reminders: You can schedule reminders for your guests in the days leading up to your wedding, so they don't forget!
• Custom envelopes: Add a special touch by including a virtual envelope with your invitation.
• Design options: Some platforms offer customizable templates or the option to upload your own design.
• Additional information: Include details such as maps, gift registries, calendar links, and more.

When sending your digital wedding invitations, it's important to consider the timing. It's recommended to send them out six to eight weeks before the wedding. However, if you're planning a destination wedding or one that requires significant travel, consider sending them four to six months in advance. This gives your guests enough time to make the necessary arrangements.

RSVP tracking

Benefits of RSVP Tracking

Firstly, it saves you time and money. Automating your RSVP tracking means you don't have to manually chase down each guest for their response, and you can quickly see who's attending and who's not with just a few clicks. This information is vital for planning other aspects of your wedding, such as catering and seating arrangements.

Secondly, it's environmentally friendly. Going digital with your invitations and RSVPs means less paper waste and a more sustainable wedding.

Platforms for RSVP Tracking

There are several online platforms that can help you with RSVP tracking. Here are some popular options:

• RSVPify allows you to automate event management, from invites to check-ins. You can create a custom event registration and RSVP experience with features like custom tags, custom questions, and multi-part events.
• WithJoy offers a powerful RSVP system that tracks all your wedding events in one place. It also allows you to manage plus-ones, table arrangements, and guest groups.
• Paperless Post provides custom online wedding invitations with RSVP tracking. You can also link your wedding website, add a monogram, and upload a stamp and backdrop.
• Greenvelope offers matching virtual envelopes and RSVP tracking. You can upload your own design or customise one of their templates.
• Evite is another platform that handles weddings. You can import your contacts, schedule event reminders, and collect RSVPs.

Tips for Successful RSVP Tracking

• Provide clear instructions on how to RSVP and a deadline for responses.
• Consider using a unique link or code for each guest or household. This way, you can track responses and avoid confusion.
• Include a reminder for guests to update their RSVP if their plans change.
• Regularly review your RSVP list and follow up with guests who haven't responded.
• Use a platform that suits your needs, whether it's a simple RSVP tracking system or one with additional features like guest management and event planning tools.

Frequently asked questions