Guide To Sending Digital Wedding Invites

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and one of the first steps is to send out invitations. Digital wedding invitations are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional paper invites, offering a convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly option for couples. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about sending digital wedding invitations, from etiquette and timing to design and communication. We'll also explore the benefits of going digital and provide tips for a seamless experience. So, whether you're looking to save money, reduce waste, or simply streamline the planning process, read on for all you need to know about navigating this modern wedding must-do.

Digital wedding invitations are a modern alternative to traditional invites

Digital Wedding Invitations: A Modern Alternative to Traditional Invites

Digital wedding invitations, also known as e-vites or paperless invitations, have become a widely accepted alternative to traditional paper invites. They are a convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly option for couples planning their big day. Here are some things to consider if you're thinking about going digital with your wedding invitations.

Benefits of Digital Invitations

Digital wedding invitations offer several advantages over their traditional counterparts. Firstly, they are much more affordable. Physical invitations can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $8,000, depending on the size of the guest list and the quality of the invitations. In contrast, digital invitations typically cost around $100, making them a budget-friendly choice.

Digital invitations are also environmentally friendly, reducing paper waste and your carbon footprint. This is especially important as sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials are key trends in wedding stationery. Additionally, digital invitations provide a seamless way to manage RSVPs by directing guests to your wedding website.

Design and Customization

Opting for digital invitations doesn't mean compromising on style or customization. There are numerous beautiful invitation templates available online, or you can design your own e-vites from scratch to match the vibe and style of your wedding. You can even include animated elements, such as envelopes that guests can "open," coordinated liners, and cards, creating a fun and interactive experience for your guests.

Etiquette and Timing

When it comes to addressing digital wedding invitations, the same rules apply as with traditional paper invitations. For couples, include both names separated by "and." For formal events, use titles and surnames, while for more casual weddings, first names are also acceptable.

As for timing, it is recommended to send digital wedding invitations around 2-3 months before the wedding for local celebrations and 4-6 months in advance for destination weddings. The RSVP deadline should be set for around 3-4 weeks before the wedding, giving you enough time to make any necessary arrangements.

Considerations

While digital invitations are a modern and practical choice, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider your guest list, especially if you have older guests who may not be tech-savvy. In such cases, providing a printed copy of the invitation or a handwritten note with the details can be a thoughtful alternative.

Additionally, some people may view digital invitations as less sentimental or formal than traditional paper invitations. If you're concerned about this, you can always include a personal note or a keepsake along with the digital invitation to add a special touch.

Digital invites are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and convenient

Digital invites are a convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper wedding invitations.

Eco-Friendly

Digital wedding invitations are environmentally friendly as they don't waste any paper. Traditional wedding invitations often use paper made from virgin materials, contributing to deforestation and habitat destruction. By opting for digital invites, you can help conserve forests and minimize your environmental impact. Additionally, digital invites eliminate the need for printing and mailing, further reducing waste and saving resources.

Cost-Effective

Digital invites are also a more affordable option. Printed wedding invitations can cost upwards of $1,000, depending on the size of the guest list and the quality of the invitation. In contrast, a digital invitation typically costs around $100. Digital invitation platforms also offer features such as guest list management and RSVP tracking, saving you time and money.

Convenient

Digital invitations are convenient for both the couple and their guests. They can be easily personalized, incorporate interactive elements, and be shared effortlessly with guests via email or wedding websites. Guests can RSVP immediately and send messages along with their replies. Digital invites are also a great option for destination weddings or last-minute weddings, as they allow for easy communication and RSVP tracking.

What to include in your digital wedding invitation

Digital wedding invitations are a modern alternative to traditional invites. They are a great way to save money and are environmentally friendly. However, it's important to keep in mind that some guests may prefer a physical invitation, especially older guests who may not be as tech-savvy.

A Request for Attendance

This is your chance to get creative with the wording and set the tone for your wedding. You can go for a formal or casual approach, depending on the style of your wedding. For example, "With great excitement, we invite you to share this special day with us!"

Couple's Names

Be sure to include the names of both individuals getting married. If it's a same-sex couple, the order of the names is entirely up to them. For example, "Ruby Johanna Milstein and Dean Chani Crawford" or "Mr. and Mrs. Crawford".

Date, Time, and Location

Provide the date, time, and location of the wedding. Be sure to include the full address of the venue to make it easy for guests to find.

Dress Code

Let your guests know the expected dress code, especially if it is a black-tie affair. This will help them prepare and ensure they feel comfortable and appropriate for the event.

RSVP Date and Method

Include an RSVP date and the method by which guests can respond. You can direct them to your wedding website or provide an email address or phone number for responses.

Wedding Website

If you have a wedding website, be sure to include the link in your digital invitation. This is where guests can find additional information such as accommodation options, FAQs, and any other relevant details.

Password (if relevant)

If your wedding website is password-protected, be sure to include the password in the invitation so that guests can access it.

Extra Information

You may also want to include extra information such as meal preferences or travel and hotel information, especially if you're having a destination wedding. However, try not to overwhelm your guests with too much information. Keep the invitation short and sweet, and use your wedding website to provide additional details.

Etiquette for addressing digital wedding invitations

Digital wedding invitations are gaining popularity as a cheaper and more convenient way to notify guests about your big day. However, some etiquette rules should be followed to ensure your digital invitations are polite and effective. Here are some tips for addressing digital wedding invitations:

• Consider your guests: While many people are tech-savvy, older attendees or those without easy access to the internet may struggle with digital invitations. Consider sending paper invitations to those who might prefer them.
• Formality: Digital invitations can be more casual in tone than paper invitations, especially for less formal weddings. Play around with language to match the style of your wedding.
• Full names: Traditionally, guests' full names, including titles and honorifics, are used on wedding invitations. This can include social titles such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Mx.
• Plus-ones: Typically, married, engaged, or partnered guests should receive a plus-one, as well as all members of the wedding party. For other guests, you can set your own rules, such as only giving plus-ones to family members.
• Timing: Send digital invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. If it is a destination wedding, add one to two months to this timeline.
• RSVP deadline: Allow guests to RSVP four to six weeks before the wedding. This will give you time to make any necessary changes. A solid RSVP deadline is around three to four weeks in advance.
• Information to include: Digital invitations should include the date, time, location, and dress code (if there is one) of the wedding. Include the names of the couple getting married and a wedding website if you have one. Do not include registry or gift information on the invitation; this should go on the wedding website.
• Read receipts: Unlike a Facebook event, keep your guest list private. Consider using a platform that offers read receipts and online reminders to ensure your invitations are received and not accidentally deleted.

Timeline for sending digital wedding invitations

The timeline for sending digital wedding invitations is similar to that of traditional paper invitations. Here is a breakdown of the steps to follow and the timing for each:

• Save-the-Dates: For a destination wedding, send Save-the-Dates as soon as you have confirmed your wedding date, preferably eight or more months in advance. For local weddings, four to six months' notice is standard. If your wedding is less than four months away, skip the Save-the-Dates and send out the invitations instead. Digital Save-the-Dates are becoming more acceptable, especially for last-minute changes.
• Invitations: The ideal time to send out wedding invitations is six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives your guests enough time to clear their schedules and make necessary arrangements. It also allows you to request RSVPs sooner, which is essential for finalizing your headcount, seating charts, and other wedding preparations. If you are having a destination wedding or your wedding date is around a major holiday, consider sending invitations a little earlier, around three months in advance.
• RSVP Deadline: Set the RSVP deadline for about four weeks before the wedding. This will give you enough time to provide final numbers to your venue and caterer, usually requested one to two weeks before the wedding.
• Reminders: If you haven't heard from some guests by the RSVP deadline, send a friendly reminder or give them a call/email a few days after the deadline passes.

By following this timeline, you will ensure that your guests have ample time to plan and attend your wedding while also giving yourself enough time to organize all the details for your big day.

Frequently asked questions