Crafting The Perfect Wedding Invitation: What To Include

Wedding invitations are a key part of wedding planning. They should include the couple's names, date and time, and location of the ceremony and reception. Invitations may also include other details such as dress code, directions, and accommodation options for guests. Response cards are also standard, allowing guests to confirm their attendance, indicate their meal preference, and RSVP to other wedding events.

The cost of wedding invitations varies depending on the printing method and design choices, such as inner envelopes and wax seals. Couples should also consider the weight of the invitation suite when selecting postage options.

The who, what, when, and where

The wedding invitation is the main component of your stationery suite. It contains the who, what, where, and when of the wedding. It is generally the largest piece.

Who

The wedding invitation should include the names of the couple. Traditionally, the bride's name would come first, followed by the groom's. However, LGBTQIA+ couples can order their names alphabetically, by age, or however they prefer. Same-sex couples may also choose to go in alphabetical order or simply with what sounds better.

The names of the hosts are also usually included in the invitation. This is often the couple themselves, or their parents or other relatives. If the parents are contributing financially or covering all the costs, they should be included.

What

The wedding invitation should include the type of reception (cocktail, formal, dinner, etc). If the ceremony and reception are held in the same location, you may print phrases like "and afterward at the reception" or "reception immediately following." When the reception is elsewhere, the location goes on a different line.

When

The wedding invitation should include the date and time of the ceremony. It is also important to include the year, and to specify a.m. or p.m. to avoid any confusion. Formal invitations typically write out the time rather than using numerals (e.g. "four o'clock in the afternoon").

Where

The wedding invitation should include the name and location of the ceremony and reception. If the ceremony and reception are taking place at the same spot, you can simply include a line like "Reception to Follow" or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow." If the reception is at a different location, you'll need to include a separate reception card with the start time and address.

RSVP details

RSVP cards are one of the most important elements of a wedding invitation. Unless you decide to use an online RSVP system, a physical response card is standard. This card confirms whether or not the guest will attend, and it also allows them to indicate if they are bringing a guest and their meal preference.

RSVP cards can be bought separately or as part of a wedding invitation package. They are usually around 3½˝x 4⅞˝ in size, but they can also be 4¼˝x 5½˝. It's important to include a pre-addressed, stamped envelope with the RSVP card so that guests can easily send back their responses.

If you're including a plated dinner, you can add a section for guests to indicate their entrée preference. You can also use the RSVP card to ask guests to RSVP to other wedding events, such as a rehearsal dinner or a post-wedding brunch.

The deadline for responses is usually around three to four weeks before the wedding date. It's a good idea to number the names on your guest list and write the corresponding number on the back of the RSVP card. This way, you can easily look up responses, especially if someone forgets to include their name.

For destination weddings or if you have guests travelling from another country, consider providing an alternate or online response method. It's also recommended to send out invitations earlier in these cases to allow guests enough time to make travel arrangements.

If you prefer to have guests RSVP online, you can include the wedding website address on a separate card, just as you would with an RSVP card, and indicate that guests can respond there. However, it's considerate to older guests to send them a physical RSVP card if you think they might not be comfortable using a computer.

Online RSVPs

If you opt for online RSVPs, it's crucial to have a wedding website where guests can respond. This website can also include other important details such as accommodations, the dress code, and extra information about the venue.

Additional Details

Along with the RSVP card, you can include other inserts to share information such as directions and accommodations. Direction cards are especially useful if your wedding venue is in a rural area with limited cell service or if your guests don't have smartphones.

If your wedding spans a whole weekend with multiple events, consider including a full itinerary for guests. This can be in the form of an enclosure card that matches your wedding theme, or you can provide more detailed logistics on your wedding website.

Post-Wedding Events

If you're planning post-wedding events like a brunch or after-party, it's a good idea to include this information in your invitation. This can be on a separate card or included on the RSVP card as an option for guests to RSVP to these additional events.

Accommodation Details

If you have guests coming from out of town, providing accommodation details is a thoughtful touch. You can include this information on an insert card or your wedding website. It's helpful to include a deadline for making reservations, and don't forget to mention if you're covering the guests' accommodations.

Inner Envelopes

Inner envelopes are smaller than the outer mailing envelope and hold the invitation. They are optional but can be a nice way to personalise your stationery. You can include the names of each invited guest, and if children are invited, you can address the envelope to "The [Last Name of the Family]". If it's adults-only, use the parents' names.

Belly Bands and Wax Seals

A belly band is a strip of paper, ribbon, lace, or twine that wraps around all the pieces in your invitation suite to hold them together. You can also use a wax seal to secure the belly band and add a personalised touch, such as your wedding monogram.

Postage

Don't forget to include the correct postage on your envelopes! Take a fully assembled invitation to your local post office to determine the exact postage required, especially if your invitation suite is heavy or includes special processing, like a wax seal.

Reception information

The reception is a time for celebration and merriment following the wedding ceremony. If the reception is held at the same location as the ceremony, you can simply include a line on your invitation such as "Reception to Follow", "Celebration to Follow", or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow". If the reception is at a different location, you will need to include a separate reception card with the relevant details.

The reception card should include the start time and address of the reception venue. It is also customary to indicate the formality of the event, for example, "Breakfast Reception" for a morning reception or "Dinner Reception" for an evening meal. If you wish to specify the type of meal, you can include this information as well (e.g. cocktail reception, formal dinner, etc.).

If your reception has a particular theme that is not a surprise, you may include this on the reception card as well. This could be a fun way to give your guests a hint of what to expect and get them excited about the event.

Additionally, providing directions or a map to the reception venue is always a good idea, especially if the location is off the beaten path or difficult to find. This can be included on the reception card or as a separate insert in the invitation suite.

For destination weddings or weddings with guests travelling from out of town, it is considerate to include accommodation options and transportation details to and from the hotels. This information can be included on the reception card or as a separate insert.

Finally, if there are multiple events throughout the wedding weekend, such as a welcome cocktail party or a farewell brunch, you may choose to include a full itinerary for your guests. This can be listed on the reception card if there is sufficient space, or on a separate weekend events card.

Remember, the reception card and other inserts should complement the main invitation, reflecting the overall style and theme of your wedding.

Directions and accommodations

If you're having a destination wedding or many of your guests are travelling, it's a good idea to book a hotel room block as soon as possible. Communicating this information clearly is important so your guests know how to book. You can include this information on a separate insert, a dedicated 'Accommodations' card, or your wedding website.

> For your convenience, a block of rooms has been reserved at [name of hotel] in [city]. When calling to make your reservation, please mention the [your last names] wedding in order to receive a discounted rate. Please call [hotel’s phone number] to make your reservation.

If you're offering multiple lodging options, it's helpful to give the price range for each hotel. You can also include any important dates or deadlines, such as:

> Be sure to book your hotel room by [date] in order to receive the discount.

If you're providing directions, you can list out driving directions or include an illustrated map. If you're including directions to multiple locations, you may want to use a double-sided card. Here is an example of what to include:

> Directions to Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, 90 Third Street, Staten Island, New York (718) 351-1093. From New Jersey/Outerbridge Crossing: Take Route 440N to Outerbridge Crossing. Go over the bridge and take Korean War Veterans Memorial Pkwy N (Exit 2). Take the Parkway to its end and stay in the left lane (Richmond Ave N/Arthur Kill Rd exit). At the light, turn Right on Arthur Kill Rd.

If your wedding will span a weekend and include multiple events, it's a good idea to include a full itinerary for guests. This can be included on your wedding website and/or an insert card. Here is an example of what to include:

> Join us for welcome drinks on Friday at 7 pm at [location]. On Saturday, the ceremony will begin at 4:30 pm at [location], followed by the reception dinner and dancing at [location]. On Sunday, we'll be having a day-after brunch at 11 am at [location].

Dress code

Including a dress code on your wedding invitations is a great way to ensure your event stays as formal or as casual as you want it to be. It is also helpful for your guests to know what is expected of them in terms of attire. Here are some suggestions for including dress code information on your wedding invitations:

Where to Include the Dress Code

• On the wedding invitation itself, you can add the dress code in the lower left or right-hand corner, or at the bottom centre of the design.
• If you are including a separate information or details card with other important details for your guests, you can use this space to list the dress code as well. This keeps your invitation simple and uncluttered.
• If you have a wedding website, you can use the space to list the dress code along with other important information for your guests.

Wording the Dress Code

The wording of the dress code should be consistent with the tone and style of the rest of your invitation. Here are some examples of how to word different dress codes:

• White Tie or Full Evening Dress: "White tie. We ask that men wear tailcoats and women wear floor-length evening gowns or ball gowns. Top hats and gloves are encouraged."
• Black Tie: "Black tie. We ask that men wear a tuxedo and women wear a floor-length gown."
• Black-Tie Optional: "Black-tie optional. We ask that men wear a tuxedo or a dark suit and tie and women wear an evening gown or a midi or knee-length cocktail dress."
• Formal Attire: "We suggest that men wear a suit in any colour and women wear a cocktail dress or a nice pantsuit."
• Semi-Formal Attire: "We ask that you wear semi-formal attire such as a cocktail-length dress or dressy separates for women and a suit and tie for men. Please note that the venue does not permit blue jeans or sneakers."
• Cocktail Attire: "We suggest that men wear a suit or a dress shirt with a tie and women wear a midi or knee-length dress or dressy separates."
• Dressy Casual: "We want you to be comfortable at our wedding. For this time of year, we suggest the following attire: Women: sundresses, lightweight separates, and flats or wedge heels for the outdoor ceremony on the lawn. Men: light dress shirt with khakis or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties are optional."

Remember, it is essential to provide clear and concise dress code information to prevent any confusion for your guests. You may also want to consider including a brief explanation or specific attire suggestions, especially if your wedding has a unique theme or colour palette.

Frequently asked questions