Texting Post-Wedding Invites: A Guide To Warm-Hearted Wording

Wedding invitations are usually sent via mail, but there is a growing trend of sending them via text message. This method is cost-effective, eco-friendly, and convenient. It saves time and money, is environmentally friendly, and makes it easier for guests to RSVP. Text message invitations are also a great way to ensure that guests receive the invitation and remember the wedding date. This method can be especially useful for those who don't have everyone's address or who want to avoid the hassle of collecting paper invitations.

How to import your guest list

Importing your guest list is simple and can be done in a few ways. Firstly, you will need to finalise your guest list and decide on a total guest count. Once you have a clear idea of who you are inviting, you can start gathering their contact information.

If you are using a bulk text messaging service, such as Text My Wedding, you can import your guest list by uploading a CSV file or integrating with guest list management tools like Aisle Planner, Zola, The Knot, or Mailchimp. These services allow you to keep all your data in one place, making it easy to access your guest list and send invitations and other details.

To upload your guest list, you will need to ensure it is formatted correctly. Your spreadsheet should include column headings for Guest Names, Address Line 1, Address Line 2, City, State, and Zip Code. If you are inviting international guests, you can add a seventh column for the country.

If you are sending invitations individually from your phone, you can still import your guest list to keep things organised. Simply upload your contacts to your phone and organise them into groups based on how you know them (family, friends, colleagues, etc.). This will make it easier to keep track of responses and send invitations to specific groups.

With your guest list imported and organised, you are now ready to start sending out your post-wedding invitations via text!

Tips for writing your text

• Import your guest list: Use a tool or app that helps you import your guest list from your phone contacts. This enables you to have your guest list in one place, without having to manually add each person's name.
• Include the essential details: Always mention the date, time, and venue, and provide a link for additional information and RSVP. You may also want to include the dress code, parking information, and location.
• Keep it concise and warm: Text messages should be short and sweet, yet inviting.
• Match your wedding theme: Tailor the language and tone to suit your wedding's theme and setting.
• Test your message: Before sending it to your guests, send a test message to yourself or a close friend to check the formatting and links.
• Check for typos: Before sending out your message, double-check for any typos or errors.

Scheduling your message

Choose the Right Timing:

Select an appropriate time to send your invitations. Avoid sending texts early in the morning or late at night. Consider your guests' convenience and choose a time when most people are likely to be available and receptive to your message.

Use Scheduling Features:

If you're using a bulk text messaging service, take advantage of their scheduling features. Prepare your messages in advance and set them to be sent at your desired date and time. This ensures that your invitations go out at the most opportune moment.

Create a Timeline:

Plan ahead and create a timeline for sending your text invitations. Consider sending a ""save the date" message first, reminding your guests to keep the wedding date free. Then, follow up with another message containing the detailed invitation and RSVP information.

Send Reminders:

Schedule reminders to be sent to your guests to prompt them to RSVP. This helps you receive timely responses and manage your guest list effectively. You can also use reminders to notify guests about other important wedding-related events, such as pre-wedding celebrations or post-wedding brunches.

Track Responses:

Utilize the response-tracking features offered by bulk text messaging services. This allows you to monitor who has received and responded to your invitation. It helps with efficient RSVP management and gives you an accurate headcount for planning refreshments, seating arrangements, and other logistics.

Follow Up:

For guests who haven't responded by your RSVP date, consider sending a gentle follow-up message. This ensures that you have a confirmed guest list and can plan accordingly. It also gives you an opportunity to connect with guests who may have missed the initial invitation.

Remember, scheduling your text invitations thoughtfully ensures that your messages are well-received and that your guests have all the necessary information to attend your special day.

Requesting RSVPs

Include a dedicated RSVP phone number

If you are sending paper invitations, you can include your dedicated RSVP phone number right on the actual invitation. Alternatively, you can include a traditional RSVP card, but instead of including a return envelope with a stamp, place your dedicated RSVP number on the RSVP card.

Set an RSVP deadline

Couples should set an RSVP deadline that is two to four weeks before their wedding date. This will allow both the couple and their vendors to finalise any last-minute details impacted by the total guest count, such as the amount of food and drinks needed and the seating chart.

What to include on the RSVP card

The first thing to include on your RSVP cards is a blank line for guests to write their names. On a formal RSVP card, you should write "M" at the start of the line to indicate that guests should include their proper honorific (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss) before their name.

The primary purpose of an RSVP card is to learn who is coming to your wedding, so you'll need an attendance line for guests to accept or decline your invite. This could be formatted as checkboxes, circling or fill-in-the-blank lines.

If you'll be serving dinner at your wedding reception, you'll want to collect your guests' food preferences and if they have any dietary requirements or food allergies.

RSVP card etiquette

When writing your RSVP, base the formality of your response on the style of the invitation and, if you're comfortable, what you believe the happy couple might find appropriate – a touch of humour is often appreciated.

For a formal response, typically when the invitation is black tie, a guest should write in the third person, following the wording of a formal invitation. For example:

> Susan and Mark Smith accept with pleasure [or, regret that they are unable to accept] the kind invitation of Mr and Mrs John Harris to the wedding reception of their daughter Sarah & Tom Duncan. On Saturday, the eighteenth of August.

For a more informal personal approach, usually written to hosts that you know well, keep the response brief but sincere or with a touch of humour. For example:

> Mark and I are delighted to accept your invitation to attend your wedding on Saturday the eighteenth of August. We look forward to sharing in your special day.

Following up with guests

• Reach out personally: If you're comfortable, consider contacting your guests in person or by phone. This approach is more personal and friendly than a text message. It also allows you to ask how they are doing before gently reminding them about the RSVP. This way, you can maintain a warm tone while also getting the information you need.
• Send a polite reminder: It's essential to strike a balance between firmness and politeness when reminding guests to RSVP. You can send them a cheerful personal message or email, expressing your excitement about the upcoming wedding and kindly requesting their response. Let them know that their prompt reply is crucial for you to finalise the headcount.
• Provide an RSVP deadline reminder: If your original invitation didn't include an RSVP deadline, now is the time to set one. Communicate this new deadline clearly and directly to your guests. You can add it to the front page of your wedding website or include it in your reminder messages.
• Offer multiple RSVP options: Make it as easy as possible for your guests to respond. Provide a variety of options, such as responding through your wedding website, sending a reply by mail, or contacting you via email or phone. This ensures that guests can choose the method that works best for them.
• Keep track of responses: Create a system to organise and track your guests' responses. You can use a spreadsheet or an online tool like The Knot's guest list manager. This will help you identify who has responded and who still needs to be reminded.
• Be mindful of children: If you're planning an adults-only event, make sure to specify this in your invitations. If guests respond with their children's names, reach out to them promptly to clarify that children are not included in the invitation.
• Follow up with a phone call: If you haven't heard back from guests after sending reminders, consider giving them a call. This direct approach ensures that your message doesn't get lost in their inbox, and it shows your genuine interest in their attendance.
• Provide meal selection reminders: If meal selections are part of your RSVP process, remind your guests about this. Let them know that their input is needed not only for attendance but also for catering purposes.

Frequently asked questions