Wedding Invitation Envelope: What To Include?

A wedding invitation suite consists of all the paper goods sent along with the wedding invitation. The suite should always include a response card and envelope, as well as important information like directions and accommodations. Other traditional elements include an inner envelope, reception card, directions, a weekend events card, and an accommodations card. Couples may also choose to include an invitation wrapper, like a belly band or silk ribbon, to hold all the pieces together.

The invitation itself

The invitation should include the names of the couple getting married. For heterosexual couples, the woman's name typically comes first, but the order of the names can be arranged however the couple prefers. For LGBTQIA+ couples, the names can be ordered alphabetically, by age, or however else the couple chooses. The couple can include their first and middle names, first and last names, or their full legal names. If the couple's parents' names are mentioned, the couple will usually use their first and middle names. The formality of the wedding can also guide the name format. For example, a casual beach ceremony may call for just the couple's first names, while a black-tie ballroom soiree might call for full names.

The invitation should also include the date and time of the ceremony. It is important to state the start time to let guests know how early they need to arrive and to avoid latecomers. Be sure to provide the hour and specify the time of day (a.m. vs. p.m.) to avoid any confusion. On formal invitations, write out the time rather than using numerals (e.g., four o'clock in the afternoon).

The ceremony and reception location should also be included in the invitation. If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, a line such as "Reception to Follow" or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow" can be included. If the reception is at a different location, a separate reception card with the start time and address is needed.

Including the dress code on the invitation is optional. Most modern invites do not include attire details, as this information can be communicated through the wedding website. However, a line indicating the dress code (e.g., Casual Attire, Semi-Formal Attire, Black Tie) can be included if desired.

The invitation should also include a way for guests to RSVP, such as an RSVP card or a link to the wedding website. If using RSVP cards, include a specific date for guests to respond by, typically three to four weeks before the wedding date. It is also helpful to include a place for guests to write their names and, if offering a plated dinner, their entrée preference.

Finally, if the wedding is taking place in a unique or unfamiliar venue, it is useful to include extra information such as parking instructions or a custom map of the area. This ensures that guests have all the information they need to arrive at the wedding on time.

RSVP card and envelope

The RSVP card is one of the most important parts of your wedding invitation suite. It is the way your guests will let you know if they are coming to your wedding, and it is also how you will find out about their dietary requirements and meal choices.

Traditionally, RSVP cards are filled out by hand and then posted back. If you choose to go down this route, it is recommended to include a stamped, addressed envelope to make the process as simple as possible for your guests. If you are not opting for postal RSVP cards, you will need to include your email address, phone number, or a link to your wedding website.

Deadline

It is recommended to pick a date for your guests to return their RSVP cards by that is at least a few weeks before you need final numbers for your venue and caterer. You can add 4-6 weeks extra time if you have a reserve guest list. This will also give you plenty of time to chase up any guests who have not replied. Here are some ways to word the deadline:

• Your reply is requested by [date]
• Kindly RSVP by [date]
• Please reply on or before [date]

Blank Line for Guests' Names

You will need to leave a blank line for your guests to write their names, along with the name of their plus one (if they have one). The line often has an 'M' at the start, which stands for 'Mr', 'Mrs', or 'Miss', but this is optional.

"Accept" and "Decline" Checkboxes

Each guest will need a way to indicate whether or not they can attend. This usually comes in the form of checkboxes with options such as:

• Joyfully accepts / Regretfully declines
• Accepts with delight / Declines with apologies
• Will attend / Will not attend

Number of Guests Attending

It is useful to include a way for guests to indicate how many people will be attending. For example: "_ guests attending out of _". You can fill in the second box yourself, according to how many people you have invited.

Food Choices

If you are giving your guests a choice of food, you will need to include this on the RSVP card. Next to each option, include a blank line or empty box and ask your guests to select their preference.

Dietary Requirements

It is likely that some of your guests will have food allergies or intolerances, so be sure to include a blank line for them to fill in any dietary requirements.

Space for Song Requests

Including space for a song request is a fun and effective way to get your guests to fill in their RSVP. You could include the words "I promise to dance if you play the following" with a blank line for them to write their request.

Stamped, Addressed Envelopes

If you have chosen postal RSVP cards, include a stamped, addressed envelope with your RSVP cards. This saves your guests from having to pay for postage and makes it easier for them to return their card.

Reception card

A reception card is an important part of a wedding invitation suite. It is one of the traditional enclosure cards that you expect to see with a standard wedding invitation.

The size of a reception card is usually 3.5˝x 4.75˝ or 4.25˝x 5.5˝. If you have enough room on the invitation card itself, you may choose to include the reception details there. However, if you have more information to share or want to keep the invitation simple, it is best to use a separate card for the reception details.

The reception card is placed face up on top of the wedding invitation. If you have other enclosure cards, such as direction or detail cards, map cards, or hotel accommodation cards, these are placed on top of the reception card.

If you have a wedding website, you can include the URL and password information on the reception card or one of the other enclosure cards. Many couples also choose to include a QR code that guests can easily scan to access the website. Just be sure to have your website updated before sending out the invitations.

Direction card

Information to Include

• Step-by-step directions to the venue, including any specific details such as parking instructions or passcodes.
• A small map or hand-drawn sketch of the route can be a fun and useful addition, especially for older guests who may not use smartphones.
• If your venue is in a busy area or has limited parking, you may want to include information about nearby parking lots or public transport options.
• If you are providing a shuttle service for guests, be sure to mention this on the direction card.

Design and Format

• Direction cards are usually 3.5" x 5.75" but can vary in size.
• They can be designed to match the style and colour scheme of your wedding invitations.
• If you have multiple inserts, consider using belly bands, ribbons, or twine to hold everything together neatly.
• If your wedding has a theme, you could incorporate this into the design of your direction cards.

When to Include Direction Cards

Ultimately, the decision to include direction cards is up to you and should be based on the specific needs and logistics of your wedding. They can be a useful addition to your wedding invitations and ensure that your guests can find your venue without getting lost!

Accommodation card

What to Include on an Accommodation Card

Your accommodation card should let guests know the name and address of the hotel(s) you've chosen, as well as any special codes or book-by deadlines they need to be aware of. If you've worked with the hotel to provide a special rate for your guests, be sure to include this information on the card.

You can also include a list of multiple lodging options with their price ranges. If you only have one hotel option, you can simply provide the hotel's name, address, contact information, and any relevant booking instructions.

Design and Assembly

When assembling your wedding invitation suite, the accommodation card is typically placed face up on top of the reception card, which goes on top of the main invitation card. If your invitation is a folded card, place the accommodation card within the fold instead.

Finally, don't forget to include an addressed and stamped RSVP envelope for your guests to send back their responses.

Frequently asked questions