Website Wedding Invites: A Guide To Sending Digital Invitations

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of planning your big day, and there are many options to consider. While traditional paper invites are still popular, online wedding invitations are an increasingly common choice for couples. This is especially true for those who want to save money, protect the environment, or simply send out invites at the last minute. Online wedding invitations can be just as beautiful as their physical counterparts, with many customisation options available, and they offer a seamless experience for guests, from the initial invite to RSVPs and even thank-you cards.

Eco-friendly and cost-effective

If you're looking for eco-friendly and cost-effective ways to send wedding invitations, you're in luck! There are several options available that can help you reduce your environmental impact and save money at the same time. Here are some detailed suggestions to get you started:

Digital Invitations:

One of the most popular eco-friendly and cost-effective options is to send digital invitations via email or text. This method eliminates the need for printing and mailing paper invitations, reducing waste and saving resources. Digital invitations can be easily personalised and allow you to incorporate interactive elements. They are also more convenient for your guests, who can RSVP instantly with just a few clicks. Many online platforms offer customizable templates, such as Greenvelope, Evite, Paperless Post, and Punchbowl. These platforms typically charge per event or offer subscription-based pricing plans.

Recycled Paper Invitations:

If you prefer physical invitations, consider using recycled paper. By opting for invitations made from post-consumer waste, you can reduce the demand for new paper production and minimise waste. Recycled paper invitations come in various colours, textures, and finishes, allowing you to find the perfect match for your wedding theme. White Dragon Paper, for example, offers beautiful handmade paper made from recycled, eco-friendly fibres at an affordable price.

Plantable Seed Paper Invitations:

For a unique and eco-friendly option, choose plantable seed paper invitations. This special type of paper is biodegradable and embedded with wildflower, herb, or vegetable seeds. After your wedding, your guests can plant the invitations and watch them grow into lovely flowers, herbs, or even vegetables. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also gives your guests a lasting memory of your special day. The Little Green Paper Shop offers plantable seed paper invitations with a variety of seeds, including wildflowers, herbs, and vegetables.

Reusable Invitations:

Another creative option is to choose reusable invitations. These invitations can be used beyond the wedding day and repurposed as home decor, bookmarks, or for other special occasions. This reduces waste and gives your invitations a longer lifespan.

When considering eco-friendly and cost-effective wedding invitations, it's important to remember that you can also combine digital and physical invitations. For example, you can send digital save-the-dates and paper invitations or use digital invitations for pre-wedding events like bridal showers. This allows you to reduce costs and environmental impact while still providing a memorable experience for your guests.

Customisation options

Customisation is a key benefit of website wedding invitations. You can create a cohesive package by incorporating your wedding colours, themes, and overall event style into the design.

Most websites will offer customisation tools that allow you to select fonts, colours, and artwork to make your design unique. You can also add personal touches, such as a photo of the happy couple or a custom monogram.

If you're looking for something truly bespoke, some sites offer free consultations with designers or the option to collaborate with them to create a one-of-a-kind design. You can also choose from a range of paper types, including recycled paper, vellum, and acrylic.

For a seamless experience, you can also opt for matching stationery, including save-the-date cards, RSVP cards, menus, and thank-you notes. This ensures that all your wedding correspondence is in line with your theme and style.

Additionally, some sites allow you to create a custom URL for your wedding website, and you can even customise the privacy settings to control who sees what on your site.

• Greenvelope: Customise text, colours, patterns, and envelopes.
• Evite: Sophisticated and fun design options, with free and premium packages.
• Paperless Post: Beautiful designs with the option to upload your own.
• Bliss & Bone: Immersive digital invitations with a paper-like feel.
• Etsy: Unique designs from independent creators, with editable templates.
• Riley & Grey: Custom designs that match your wedding website.
• Zola: Over 1,000 choices, with free samples and envelopes.
• Artifact Uprising: Try-before-you-buy sample kits with different paper types and printing styles.
• Shutterfly: Photo-featured designs and various invitation formats, including magnets.

RSVP functionality

• Unified Platform: Integrate the RSVP function with your wedding website and guest list. This allows you to manage everything in one place and automatically sync guest responses with your guest list.
• Customisable Questions: Allow guests to provide additional information through customisable RSVP questions. This can include meal choices, travel plans, song requests, dietary restrictions, and more.
• Multiple Events: If you have multiple wedding events, such as the ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner, or brunch, ensure your RSVP function can handle responses for each event. This helps you track attendance and plan accordingly.
• Guest Groups and Plus Ones: Create guest groups to easily manage plus ones, table arrangements, and seating charts. Give guests the option to RSVP on behalf of their party, whether they are family or a couple.
• Real-time Updates: Get real-time updates and notifications as guests respond. This helps you stay on top of the guest list and makes it easier to plan and make adjustments.
• Email and Text Invitations: Send email or text invitations directly from the RSVP platform to your guests. This simplifies the process and ensures a smooth guest experience.
• Reminders: Set up automatic reminders for guests who have not responded yet. This helps improve response rates and ensures you receive timely responses.
• Customisable Design: Match the look and feel of your RSVP page to your wedding website and invitations. Customise the design, colours, fonts, and photos to create a cohesive and elegant experience for your guests.
• Password Protection: Add a layer of security and privacy by requiring a password to access the RSVP page. This ensures that only invited guests can respond and view event details.
• Data Security: Ensure that the RSVP platform you choose prioritises data security and privacy. Look for platforms that do not sell or monetise your data or your guests' data.
• Excel Exports: Choose a platform that allows you to export guest responses to Excel or similar formats. This makes it easier to share the guest list with vendors and create seating charts or place cards.

Design and style

Choose a Design That Reflects Your Wedding Style

Select a design that aligns with the theme and aesthetic of your wedding. Whether it's classic and elegant or modern and whimsical, there are many online templates to choose from. You can also create a custom design by uploading your own artwork. Consider incorporating your wedding colours and any special motifs or patterns that reflect your personality as a couple.

Pay Attention to the Little Details

The beauty of digital invitations lies in the little details. You can add virtual envelopes, wax seals, and even stamps to make your invitation feel special. Play around with different fonts, colours, and backgrounds to create a visually appealing layout. You can also include a comment wall, guest list, and gift registry link to make your invitation more interactive.

Create a Seamless Experience

Use your wedding colours, motifs, and fonts across all your wedding stationery, from save-the-dates to thank-you cards. This creates a cohesive package that your guests will notice and appreciate. You can also incorporate your wedding website into your invitation design, providing guests with a one-stop source for all the information they need, including RSVP functionality.

Enhance the Experience with Multimedia

Digital invitations allow you to incorporate multimedia elements. Consider including a video message or a slideshow of photos to make your invitation more engaging and personal. You can also use animations, such as an envelope opening to reveal the invitation, adding a touch of surprise and delight for your guests.

Make it Interactive

In addition to RSVP functionality, you can include interactive features such as a message board, song request options, and even the ability to add the wedding date to a calendar. These features encourage guest engagement and make the experience more dynamic.

Be Mindful of Accessibility

While digital invitations offer many advantages, be mindful of guests who may be less tech-savvy or have limited access to technology. Consider sending paper invitations to older guests or those who prefer a more traditional approach. Additionally, ensure that your digital invitation is mobile-friendly, as many guests may view it on their smartphones.

By following these tips, you can create stylish and engaging digital wedding invitations that set the tone for your special day.

Guest experience

The guest experience is a crucial aspect to consider when planning your wedding, and digital wedding invitations can offer a seamless and engaging journey for your invitees. Here are some ways to ensure a positive and memorable guest experience when sending website wedding invitations:

Easy Access to Information:

Digital wedding invitations provide guests with convenient access to all the necessary details about your wedding. Include essential information such as the date, time, and venue of the ceremony and reception. You can also add accommodation options, transport, and parking information to ensure your guests can easily plan their attendance.

Seamless RSVP Process:

Online invitations make it incredibly convenient for guests to respond to your invitation. With just a few clicks, they can RSVP, providing their attendance confirmation and any additional information you may require, such as meal preferences or song requests. This instant response also helps you as a host to efficiently manage your guest list and plan accordingly.

Engaging and Interactive Experience:

Website wedding invitations allow you to create a dynamic and engaging experience for your guests. You can incorporate your wedding colours, themes, and even personal photos to make it more personalised. Some platforms offer virtual envelopes, wax seals, and stamps to add a special touch. Additionally, guests can easily access your wedding website through the invitation, where they can explore further details and get excited about your special day.

Customised and Creative Content:

Digital invitations provide an opportunity to showcase your creativity and set the tone for your wedding. Whether it's a luxurious event or a tropical celebration, you can choose elegant templates with regal details or vibrant colours and modern fonts to match your wedding vision. You can also include fun questions or polls, such as requesting song suggestions or advice for the happy couple.

Group Updates and Reminders:

With online invitations, it's easy to send group updates and reminders to your guests. This is especially helpful if there are any last-minute changes or additional events they need to be aware of. You can also set automated reminders for guests who haven't responded yet, ensuring you receive all the RSVPs promptly.

Eco-Friendly and Affordable:

Digital invitations are not only environmentally friendly, saving paper and reducing waste, but they are also more affordable than traditional paper invitations. This allows you to allocate your budget to other aspects of your wedding, such as hosting an open bar or investing in a dream venue.

By considering these factors, you can create a guest experience that is not only practical and informative but also engaging and memorable, setting the tone for your wedding celebrations.

Frequently asked questions