Navigating Wedding Invitation Etiquette During A Pandemic

Planning a wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, especially when it comes to sending out invitations. Couples have had to make difficult decisions about postponing or cancelling their weddings, and communicating these changes to their guests. This article will explore the different options available for sending wedding invitations during the pandemic, including digital invitations, text messages, and social media invitations. It will also discuss the timing of sending out invitations and provide examples of wording for postponement notices.

Send save-the-dates 6-12 months in advance

Sending out save-the-dates 6-12 months in advance is a good idea if you are planning a destination wedding. This gives your guests ample time to make travel arrangements and prepare for the trip. It is also a good idea to send save-the-dates earlier if your wedding is taking place during a busy holiday period, such as Christmas or Easter, so that your guests can plan their time off accordingly.

If you are having a local wedding, you may want to send out your save-the-dates a little closer to the 6-month mark, as your guests will not need as much time to plan their attendance. However, it is still a good idea to give them a few months' notice, especially if your wedding will be taking place during a busy social season.

When sending out save-the-dates, it is important to remember that they are not invitations. A save-the-date does not require a commitment to attend, nor does it guarantee an invitation. However, as a sender, you are making a commitment to follow up with a formal invitation at a later date. It is also important to remember that plans can change, and if your wedding is postponed or cancelled, you will need to inform your guests.

Save-the-dates can be sent via email or post. During the COVID-19 pandemic, digital correspondence is often preferred as it is more reliable and ensures that your guests receive the message promptly. It is also a good idea to include your wedding website on your save-the-date so that guests can stay up to date with any changes or new information.

Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding

Sending out your wedding invitations during the pandemic can be tricky, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make the process smoother. Firstly, it is important to consider the timing of sending out your invitations. Aim to send your invitations 6-8 weeks before your wedding date. Sending them any sooner may cause people to forget to send their responses, and sending them later may not give your guests enough time to plan, especially if they need to travel or make accommodations.

If your wedding is quite far in advance, it is likely that the pandemic situation will have improved by then, so you can go ahead and send out your invitations as planned. However, if your wedding is within the next four months, it is advisable to delay the wedding and reschedule to a later date when it is safer to gather.

When it comes to the format of your invitations, you have a few options. Traditional paper invitations can be ordered online and delivered to your door, allowing you to send them out without having to leave your home. However, online or digital invitations are also a great option, especially if you want to save costs, match your wedding website, or easily communicate any last-minute changes to your guests.

If you are postponing your wedding, it is recommended to inform your guests through digital correspondence, such as email, as it is faster and more reliable, especially if people are not at their usual residences. You can include key information such as the new date, how to RSVP, and your website for further updates.

Remember, whether you choose traditional or digital invitations, always prioritize the safety of your guests and follow the local health guidelines and regulations.

Digital invites are convenient and eco-friendly

Digital invites are a convenient and eco-friendly option for couples planning their wedding during the pandemic.

For one, they are hassle-free and save you money. Online invitations are available at a fraction of the cost of traditional invitations, which can take a chunk out of your wedding budget. There are no stationery design, material, printing, or postage costs to worry about. You can also save on costs by matching your digital invites to your wedding website and using the same design for other stationery requirements like Save the Dates or bridal shower invitations.

Digital invites are also a more flexible option. If you need to communicate last-minute changes, such as a venue change or postponement, you can easily send digital updates or "Change the Dates" to your guests in real-time without incurring additional costs. This is especially useful during the pandemic when plans are more unpredictable.

Online invitations are also better for the planet. They help you minimize the carbon footprint of your wedding by reducing waste. Unlike paper invitations, RSVP cards, and envelopes, digital invites won't go to waste after the big day.

Finally, digital invites make it easier to track RSVPs. You can easily see who has opened their invitation and who is yet to reply. Online invitations also encourage faster responses, as guests can quickly respond with a simple click of a button.

If postponing, inform guests via email or card

If you've already sent out your wedding invitations but have to postpone your wedding, you can inform your guests via email or card.

Email

If you choose to send an email, you can include a graphic designed by your stationer that contains the postponement information. This is a good option if you want to ensure your guests receive the message quickly, as traditional mail may be slower and some people may not be at their usual residence. You can also include a beautiful graphic to deliver the message in a thoughtful way.

Card

If you prefer to send a card, you can prepare a new mailing in an envelope, informing guests of the change. This option may be preferable if you want a more traditional or formal announcement. However, keep in mind that it may take longer for your guests to receive the notification, and there is a chance that some people may have changed their residence.

Information to Include

Regardless of the format you choose, be sure to include the new date, instructions on how to RSVP for the new date, and your website information for further updates. If your wedding has been postponed until the following year, you may want to hold off on collecting RSVPs until closer to the new date.

Prioritise guest safety and follow local regulations

When sending wedding invitations during the pandemic, it is important to prioritise the safety of your guests and follow local regulations to ensure that everyone can enjoy the celebration without worry. Here are some detailed suggestions to ensure the safety of your guests and compliance with local regulations:

Firstly, keep yourself informed about the latest local regulations and guidelines regarding gatherings and weddings. These guidelines may change rapidly in response to the evolving situation, so it is crucial to stay updated. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises working with local health officials and adhering to local regulations.

Secondly, consider the number of guests you invite. Reducing the number of guests can help ensure that social distancing can be maintained during the event. Go through your guest list and decide who are the must-haves at the wedding. This decision may depend on the venue size, but it is generally safer to have a smaller gathering.

Thirdly, consider the duration of the wedding. The CDC has stated that "being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes or more (over a 24-hour period) greatly increases the risk of becoming infected." Therefore, shorter events are generally safer than longer ones. If possible, avoid having a reception with a meal, as sharing a meal increases the risk of exposure, especially if guests have to remove their masks to eat.

Fourthly, opt for an outdoor venue if possible. Outdoor weddings are considered much safer than indoor ones, as coronavirus spreads more easily in enclosed spaces. If you choose an outdoor venue, ensure that there is adequate spacing between guests and consider providing sanitation stations with hand sanitiser and disposable masks.

Additionally, consider requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for guests attending the wedding. This can be communicated via your wedding website or through direct conversations with guests. For guests who are unable to be vaccinated, suggest that they quarantine and take a test before the event.

Lastly, be prepared to make changes or postpone the wedding if necessary. If there is a surge in COVID-19 cases or if local regulations change, you may need to adjust your plans. Communicate any changes to your guests promptly and effectively, either through digital updates or by sending out new invitations with the updated information.

Remember, the goal is to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone involved. By following these suggestions and staying informed about local regulations, you can help ensure that your guests can celebrate your special day with peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions