Your Wedding, Your Guests: Personalized Invites For Your Big Day

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of wedding preparations. They set the tone for the celebration and give guests a glimpse of what to expect. From rustic and vintage to modern and minimalist, the invitation's design and wording reflect the couple's unique style and the wedding's vibe and mood. Whether heartfelt and traditional or creative and whimsical, the invitation should always include key details such as the request to come, the couple's names, and reception information. With the rise of digital invitations, couples now have more options than ever to create personalised invites that suit their preferences and budget.

Wording and etiquette

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are a few key elements that should be included, regardless of whether you opt for a traditional or creative approach. Here are some tips and etiquette guidelines to help you craft the perfect wording for your "me to you" wedding invitations:

The Host Line

Traditionally, the bride's parents are listed as the hosts at the top of the invitation, even for very formal affairs. However, it has become increasingly common to include the names of both sets of parents as hosts, especially if they are contributing financially. If the couple is hosting the wedding themselves or in collaboration with their parents, you can use wording such as "Together with their parents, [bride] and [groom] request the pleasure of your company..."

The Request Line

This is where you invite guests to attend the wedding. Here are some examples of wording for the request line:

• "The pleasure of your company is requested"
• "Invite you to share in their happiness"
• "Would love for you to join them"
• "Invite you to celebrate with them"

The Names of the Couple

The names of the couple should be included in the invitation, with the bride's name traditionally appearing first. For same-sex couples, you can choose the order based on alphabetical order or what sounds better. If the parents are hosting, the couple's titles are optional, but if they are hosting themselves, their titles should be included.

The Date, Time, and Location

The invitation should include the wedding date and time, written out in full for formal weddings (e.g., "Saturday, the fifth of May, two thousand seventeen at one o'clock in the afternoon"). For casual weddings, numerals are also acceptable.

Include the street address of the venue unless it is a well-known location or the wedding is taking place at the host's home. Always write out the city and state in full.

Reception Information

For very formal invitations, the reception information can be included on a separate card. Otherwise, it can be printed on the invitation itself if there is room. If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, you can simply state "Reception to follow" or "and afterward at the reception." If the reception is at a different location, include it on a separate line.

Dress Code

The dress code can be included in the lower right corner of the invitation. If no dress code is specified, the style of the invitation itself will usually indicate the expected attire.

RSVP Details

Most couples include a separate response card for guests to fill out and return. Alternatively, you can direct guests to RSVP via your wedding website.

Examples of Traditional Wording:

• "[Bride's parents] request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter [Bride] to [Groom], son of [Groom's parents]. Saturday, the twenty-first of May, two thousand twenty-two, at half after six o'clock. [Ceremony location], [City], [State]. Reception to follow."
• "Together with their families, [Bride] and [Groom] invite you to share in the joy of their wedding day. [Date], [Time], [Ceremony location], [City], [State]. Dinner and dancing to follow."

Examples of Creative Wording:

• "We've laughed, we've cried, and now we want you to join us as we tie the knot! [Bride] and [Groom] request the honour of your presence on [Date] at [Time], [Ceremony location], [City], [State]."
• "Love is in the air! Join us as we celebrate the union of [Bride] and [Groom] on [Date] at [Time], [Ceremony location], [City], [State]. Merriment and festivities to follow."

Design and customisation

Designing and customising your wedding invitations is an important part of the wedding preparation process. This is your chance to get creative and choose invitations that reflect your style and the theme of your wedding. Whether you're looking for something rustic, chic, vintage, or modern, there are endless options to choose from. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Finding the Right Design

The design of your wedding invitation sets the tone for your special day. It can be a reflection of your personality and taste, as well as the overall theme of your wedding. The good news is that there are countless pre-designed templates available online, or you can even design your own from scratch. Basic Invite, for example, offers over 1,200 design templates with various colour schemes, fonts, and customisation options. Greetings Island also offers hundreds of graphic designs with editable text, images, and stickers.

Customisation Options

Customisation is key to making your wedding invitations unique and personal. Most online platforms offer a range of customisation options, allowing you to change colours, fonts, text, and even add your own photos. You can also choose from different paper types and finishes, such as recycled brown paper for a rustic theme or elegant chrome for a modern look.

Wording and Etiquette

When it comes to the wording of your wedding invitations, there are some traditional elements that are typically included. These include the request to come to the wedding, the names of the couple, and reception information. It's also important to include the date, time, and venue of the wedding. While traditional invitations follow a formal and straightforward format, you can also add a creative or whimsical touch to your wording.

RSVP Cards

Including an RSVP card with your invitation is a convenient way to make it easy for guests to respond. You can also include a QR code that guests can scan to respond digitally. If you have a wedding website, you can include the website address on a separate card, allowing guests to RSVP directly on the site.

Printing and Delivery

Once you've finalised your design, it's time to decide on printing and delivery options. Some platforms, like Canva, offer the option to print your invitations and have them delivered to your doorstep. Alternatively, you can download your designs and print them at home or use a professional printing service.

Timing and Quantity

It's recommended to send out your wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding, giving guests enough time to make arrangements. As for quantity, a good rule of thumb is to order 10-15% more invitations than the number of guests on your list to account for last-minute additions and to keep some as souvenirs.

Printing and delivery

Printing Options:

There are several printing options available, depending on your preferences and budget:

• Professional Printing Services: Many companies offer high-quality printing services for wedding invitations. They can provide guidance on paper type, finishes, and other customisation options. This option ensures a polished and consistent look for your invitations.
• Print-at-Home: If you prefer a more hands-on approach or want to save costs, you can opt to print your invitations at home. This option gives you greater flexibility and control over the entire process.
• Online Invitation Templates: Some websites offer free or premium online invitation templates that you can download, edit, and share electronically via email or social media. This eco-friendly option eliminates the need for printing and postage.

Delivery Options:

The delivery method you choose will depend on your timeline, convenience, and budget:

• Postal Services: Sending invitations by mail is a traditional and reliable option. It's important to consider the weight of your invitations and envelopes to calculate the correct postage.
• In-Person Delivery: If your wedding is taking place close to home, you may opt to hand-deliver your invitations. This option saves on postage costs and allows for a more personal touch.
• Email/Online Delivery: For a more modern approach, you can send your invitations electronically via email. This method is cost-effective, eco-friendly, and efficient, especially if you have a tight timeline.

Timing:

The timing of your wedding invitation delivery is crucial. It's recommended to send out invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding, allowing extra time for guests who need to make travel arrangements. For destination weddings or if most guests are travelling, consider sending invitations out twelve weeks in advance.

RSVP Management:

Managing RSVPs is an important aspect of the wedding invitation process. Here are some options:

• Response Cards: Include response cards with pre-addressed and stamped envelopes for guests to fill out and return via mail.
• Wedding Website: Create a wedding website where guests can RSVP directly. Include the website address on a separate card with your invitations.
• QR Codes: Add a QR code to your invitations, allowing guests to respond digitally by scanning the code with their smartphones.

Proofreading and Samples:

Before finalising your printing and delivery, it's essential to proofread your invitations for any errors or typos. Order a sample of your invitation to ensure it meets your expectations in terms of paper quality, printing clarity, and colour accuracy.

Timing and logistics

The timing and logistics of your wedding invitations are crucial to ensuring that your guests have all the information they need and can plan their attendance accordingly. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you navigate the process:

Save-the-Date Notices:

It is recommended to send out "save-the-date" notices several months before your wedding, especially if your wedding is during a busy time of year or if many guests will need to travel. For destination weddings, allow additional time, sending these notices about eight to twelve weeks in advance. This will give your guests ample time to plan and make travel arrangements.

Sending Out Invitations:

The standard timeline for sending out wedding invitations is six to eight weeks before the wedding date. This timeframe considers the need for guests to make travel plans and RSVP. If your wedding is local, and most guests are nearby, you can opt for the later end of this timeframe.

RSVP Deadline:

To effectively plan seating arrangements, catering, and other logistics, it's essential to set an RSVP deadline. This date is typically set for three to four weeks before the wedding. This buffer will allow you to follow up on any missing responses and finalise numbers for your vendors.

Invitation Contents:

There are several key elements that should be included in your wedding invitations to provide guests with all the necessary information:

• The request to come to the wedding: This can be worded in various ways, such as "the pleasure of your company" or "invite you to celebrate with them."
• The names of the couple: Traditionally, the bride's name precedes the groom's. However, for same-sex couples, alphabetical order or personal preference can be followed.
• Reception information: If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, you may simply indicate "reception to follow." If they are at different venues, include the reception location and time if it's not immediately after the ceremony.
• Dress code: While not mandatory, indicating the dress code is helpful for guests. This can be done explicitly or by the style and formality of the invitation itself.

Extras:

In addition to the invitation itself, you may want to include response or RSVP cards for guests to fill out and return. Alternatively, you can direct guests to your wedding website for RSVP purposes. This website can also be used to share additional details about the wedding, accommodation options, and any other relevant information for your guests.

Response and RSVP

When it comes to your wedding invitations, there are a few key details you'll want to include to ensure your guests have all the information they need. Here are some tips and suggestions for crafting the "Response and RSVP" section of your "Me to You" wedding invitations:

• Provide clear instructions: On your response card, include a simple and clear instruction such as "Please respond by [date]." This will give your guests a clear deadline to work with.
• Include necessary details: Along with the deadline, guests will need to know what information to include in their response. Ask them to specify whether they will attend, and if they have any dietary restrictions or other relevant details you should know about.
• Offer multiple response options: Nowadays, there are several ways to respond to an invitation. You can include a separate response card for guests to fill out and return via mail, or you can direct them to your wedding website or email address for a more modern approach.
• Make it personal: Add a warm and friendly touch to your response card. For example, "We can't wait to hear from you!" or "Your presence means so much to us. Please let us know if you can make it."
• Be mindful of timing: It's recommended to send out your wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to make arrangements and respond. If you're having a destination wedding, consider sending them out eight to twelve weeks in advance.
• Set an RSVP deadline: Typically, the RSVP deadline is set for three to four weeks before the wedding. This gives you time to follow up on any missing responses and finalise numbers for your vendors.
• Consider a digital option: Instead of a physical response card, you can include a QR code on your invitation that guests can scan to respond digitally. This saves paper and provides a convenient response option for your guests.
• Match your theme: Ensure your response cards align with the overall theme and style of your wedding invitations. Whether it's rustic, elegant, or modern, carry the same aesthetic throughout for a cohesive look.
• Provide pre-paid response envelopes: Make it easy for your guests to respond by including pre-paid and pre-addressed envelopes with your invitations. This removes any barriers and encourages timely responses.
• Keep track of responses: Create a spreadsheet or use a wedding planning app to keep track of responses. This will help you stay organised and ensure you have an accurate headcount for planning purposes.

Here's an example of what your "Response and RSVP" section could look like:

"Please respond by [date].

We kindly request the pleasure of your company. Let us know by [email address], our wedding website, or return the enclosed card.

[Your names]"

Remember to personalise the response deadline, method of response, and include your names at the end. This example maintains a formal and elegant tone, but you can adjust it to match your wedding's style and your personal preferences.

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to creating thoughtful and informative "Response and RSVP" cards for your "Me to You" wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions