Wedding Invitation Essentials: What To Include In The Envelope

Wedding invitations are an exciting part of the wedding planning process, and there are many elements to consider including. The invitation suite refers to all the paper goods sent along with the wedding invitation. The invitation itself should include key details such as the time, date, ceremony location, and reception location. It is also important to include an RSVP card, with a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for guests' convenience. Other optional but helpful additions include a reception card, directions, a weekend events card, and an accommodations card. These cards provide guests with practical information such as the type of reception, directions to the venue, a schedule of events, and hotel options. It is also possible to include a belly band, wax seal, or customized stamp to hold all the pieces together neatly. When sending out invitations, it is recommended to mail them six to eight weeks before the wedding to give guests ample time to plan and RSVP.

RSVP card and envelope

The RSVP card and envelope are essential components of your wedding invitation suite. Here is a detailed guide on what to include and consider when preparing your RSVP cards and envelopes:

The RSVP Card

The RSVP card itself typically includes the following:

• A clear RSVP deadline: It is recommended to set the deadline one month before the wedding date to allow enough time for planning and finalising details with vendors. For destination weddings, consider setting the deadline two months in advance to account for travel arrangements.
• A way for guests to indicate their attendance: This can be formatted as checkboxes, circles, or fill-in-the-blank lines.
• Space for guests to specify their names: This ensures you know who is attending and helps with the correct spelling of names on seating charts. Carefully addressing invitations can help prevent guests from adding extra names.
• Dietary requirements and entrée preferences: If you are offering meal choices, include checkboxes or a fill-in-the-blank line for guests to specify their preferences and any dietary restrictions.
• Additional information: You may include details such as the dress code, your contact information, and the URL of your wedding website.
• Space for creativity: Encourage guests to share their thoughts by leaving some blank space on the RSVP card. They can write notes, offer advice, or make song requests.

The RSVP Envelope

When preparing the RSVP envelopes, consider the following:

• Pre-address and pre-stamp: Include a small envelope designed to fit the RSVP card. It should be stamped and marked with your address to make it convenient for guests to mail their responses.
• Return address: The return address on the RSVP envelope should be that of the person handling the responses, whether it's you, your fiancé, a family member, or a member of the wedding party.
• Postage: Ensure you use the correct postage for the weight of the envelope. Take a fully stuffed invitation to the post office to determine the required postage.
• Numbering: To keep track of responses, consider numbering your guest list and writing the corresponding number on the back of each RSVP card. This helps identify the sender in case of illegible handwriting.

Reception card

A reception card is an optional, but important, addition to your wedding invitation suite. It is especially useful if your wedding reception is at a different location or venue from your wedding ceremony.

The reception card should include all the information your guests need to know about the reception, including the location, address, and start time. If your reception is at the same location as the ceremony, you can simply write "Reception to Follow" on the invitation card. However, if your reception is at a different location, you will need to include a separate reception card.

The reception card should also indicate the formality and nature of the event. For example, if you are hosting a breakfast reception, the first line of the card should say "Breakfast Reception." If it is a dinner reception, the first line should read "Dinner Reception."

You may also want to include details about the type of meal being served, especially if you are offering your guests meal choices. You can put checkboxes on the reception cards for people to choose between options like chicken, fish, steak, or vegetarian.

Finally, if your wedding spans a whole weekend with multiple events, you can include a full itinerary on the reception card so that guests know what to expect and pack accordingly. This is especially helpful for guests travelling from out of town.

Directions card

A directions card is an optional, but thoughtful, addition to your wedding invitation suite. It ensures your guests can find your wedding venue without a hitch and is especially useful if your nuptials are taking place in a rural location or an area with poor phone signal.

What to Include on a Directions Card

The directions card should include step-by-step instructions on how to get to your wedding venue. You can also include other helpful information, such as:

• Insider information on avoiding traffic during rush hour.
• Parking instructions.
• Details on any passcodes or special requirements for entering the venue.
• A custom map of the local area, marking the location of the ceremony and reception.

Design Tips

When designing your directions card, legibility is key. Choose a clear, easy-to-read font. You may also want to include a custom map or illustration to add a touch of personality and make your directions card a keepsake for your guests.

If you're sending your invitations digitally, you can include a QR code that links to an online map or directions.

Weekend events card

A weekend events card is a great way to give your guests a full itinerary and let them know what to expect and pack for. This is especially helpful for those travelling from out of town.

Friday

• Welcome drinks: [location], [time]
• Dinner: [location], [time]
• After-party: [location], [time]

Saturday

• Bridal bingo: [location], [time]
• Lunch: [location], [time]
• [Name] and [Name]'s wedding ceremony: [location], [time]
• Wedding reception: [location], [time]
• Dinner: [location], [time]

Sunday

• Brunch: [location], [time]
• Farewell drinks: [location], [time]

You can also include details about transportation locations and times, hotel recommendations with room blocks, and whether any activities are adults-only.

If you have a wedding website, you can include the URL on the card so that guests can refer to it for more information.

Accommodations card

An accommodations card is a great way to show your out-of-town guests that you care about them flying in for your wedding. It is a simple insert included in your wedding invitation envelope, providing guests with lodging and accommodation information.

Hotel Details

Provide the name and address of the hotel(s) you are recommending or where the wedding party is staying. If you have reserved a block of rooms, include the group name or code, and the date by which rooms must be reserved.

Contact Information

Include the hotel's website and/or phone number so guests can easily get in touch and make reservations.

Transportation

If you are providing a shuttle service to and from the hotel, be sure to include this information on the card. This is especially helpful if you want to keep everything under the same roof and makes it easier for your guests.

Design

When designing your accommodations card, opt for a simple and minimalist approach to avoid confusion. Ensure the font is easy to read, and consider including a title or heading such as "Accommodations" or "Where to Stay."

Deadlines

Including a deadline for making reservations is optional but helpful. Rooms can book up quickly, so giving your guests a date to aim for ensures they don't miss out.

Additional Information

There is no need to include minor details such as the climate or flight information. Focus on providing clear and concise accommodation details, so your guests can easily make their travel arrangements.

By including an accommodations card with your wedding invitations, you can make the planning process easier for both you and your guests, ensuring they have all the information they need to attend your special day.

Frequently asked questions