Creating Wedding Enclosure Cards: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding enclosure cards are additional stationery items that are sent with wedding invitations. They are used to communicate specific information to guests, such as reception details, directions, transportation schedules, accommodation options, attire suggestions, and any other important details. Enclosure cards are typically small pieces of paper that are included inside personalised wedding invitations. They can be designed to match the wedding invitation suite, with the same colour scheme and style. Etsy and Zazzle offer customisable enclosure cards, while Shutterfly provides a helpful guide on enclosure card wording and what information to include.

Reception cards

When creating reception cards, it is important to keep the wording straightforward, easy to read, and concise. Here is an example of simple reception card wording:

"Reception information: Bluxome Street Winery, 101 Bluxome Street, San Francisco, California"

If you prefer a more formal approach, you can get creative with your language while still ensuring that the information is clear and easy for guests to read. For example:

"It's Time to Celebrate: Please join us after the ceremony for a night of dinner and dancing at Bluxome Street Winery, 101 Bluxome Street, San Francisco, California"

In addition to the reception details, you may also choose to include other information on the card, such as the dress code or transportation schedules.

Digital Wedding Invitations

If you are sending digital wedding invitations, you may not need to include separate reception cards. However, it is still important to include all the key information about the reception in your digital invitation.

Response cards

Wording and Content

It is essential to include a deadline for guests to respond by, along with a space for them to write their names and the number of people attending. The response card should also have an area for guests to accept or decline the invitation and provide entree choices if applicable. You may also want to include an option for guests to specify any dietary restrictions or other relevant information.

Design and Format

Online Response Options

Instead of a traditional response card, you may choose to direct guests to your wedding website or provide a QR code for online responses. This can be a more convenient option for guests and can also help you keep track of responses more easily. You can include this information on a separate enclosure card or include it on your invitation.

Printing and Assembly

Sample Wording

"Please RSVP by [date]

___ Accept with pleasure

___ Decline with regret

___ Number of guests attending

Name(s): [space for guest names]"

Remember to include any additional details or instructions that are important for your wedding, such as meal choices or other relevant information.

Accommodation cards

What to Include:

• Recommended hotels or accommodations near your wedding venue. You can also include a variety of options to suit different budgets.
• Special wedding rates: If you have negotiated a discounted rate for your guests at specific hotels, be sure to mention this.
• Contact information for the hotels: Include the web address, phone number, and physical address to make it convenient for your guests to book their stay.
• Transportation options: If guests will need transportation from the hotel to the venue, provide information on rental cars, taxis, or shuttles.
• Room reservation details: Let guests know if you have a block of rooms reserved and any relevant booking codes or instructions.

Design and Personalization:

• Match your wedding theme: Choose a design, colours, and fonts that complement your wedding invitations and other stationery.
• Add a personal touch: Include a meaningful quote, a romantic message, or a personalised monogram to make your accommodation cards unique.
• Consider using templates: Etsy offers a wide range of editable and customisable accommodation card templates, allowing you to easily create cards that match your style.

Examples of Accommodation Card Wording:

• "We have reserved a block of rooms at [Hotel Name] for our special day. Please book your room by [date] to receive our discounted rate. You can make reservations by calling [phone number] or visiting [hotel website]."
• "For your convenience, we suggest the following accommodations near our wedding venue: [Hotel Name 1], [Hotel Name 2], and [Hotel Name 3]. We look forward to celebrating with you!"
• "Join us in [destination] for our wedding celebration! Here are some recommended places to stay during your visit:"

Attire cards

Wedding attire cards are a great way to ensure your wedding stays as formal or as casual as you want. It's a good idea to include your wedding dress code on an information card, especially if you have a specific theme and want your guests to dress accordingly. This can be a fun part of your invitation suite, with a short story or riddle to encourage guests to participate. Here are some tips for creating your wedding attire cards:

Wording and Etiquette

It's important to understand the difference between different dress codes and to communicate your wishes clearly and politely. For example, a black-tie event is more formal than formal attire, and guests are expected to wear tuxedos and gowns. If you want a more casual dress code, you can simply state "casual attire" or "casual dress" on your cards.

Examples of Wording

• Black Tie (traditional): Tuxedos and formal gowns
• Formal, Black Tie Optional (traditional): Suit and tie, and dresses
• Semi-Formal (traditional): Suit and tie, and cocktail dresses
• Cocktail Attire (traditional): Suits and party dresses
• Beach or Garden Party Attire (traditional): Summer suits and summer dresses
• Casual (traditional): Button-down shirts or polos, and summer sundresses or a skirt or pants with a nice blouse
• Casual (fun and unique): "No suits or tuxes required!"

Design and Printing

You can find wedding attire card templates online, with editable and printable options available. These templates can be purchased and edited to include your specific dress code and wedding details. You can also design and print your own cards from scratch, adding your own unique touches and matching them to your wedding invitation suite.

Direction cards

Design and Wording:

Keep the design of your direction cards simple and elegant. Include the venue's name, address, and clear, step-by-step driving instructions from different directions or landmarks. You can also include parking instructions and other relevant details. A visual map is also helpful, especially if you have multiple events at different locations.

"Bluxome Street Winery

101 Bluxome Street

San Francisco, California

From Downtown San Francisco:

• Head northeast on Market St. toward Van Ness Ave.
• Take a right onto 10th Street
• Turn left onto Division Street
• At the rotary, continue straight onto Townsend Street
• Turn left onto 5th Street
• Turn right onto Bluxome Street

Valet services are available, and parking is behind the building."

Size and Paper Stock:

Printing and Customisation:

Consider adding some special touches to your direction cards, such as foil stamping, letterpressing, or rounded corners. You can also print on both sides, including a simple design or your wedding monogram on the back. If you're environmentally conscious, look for paper stocks with recycled fibres.

Ordering:

When ordering direction cards, you can typically choose from various quantities, ranging from 25 to 300 or more. The more you order, the better the price. Turnaround times can vary, but some printers offer quick options, such as same-business-day delivery.

Remember to include clear and concise directions on your enclosure cards to ensure your guests can find their way to your special day!

Frequently asked questions