Wedding Invitation Enclosure Cards: What, Why, And How?

Wedding enclosure cards are an essential part of wedding invitations, providing guests with additional details about the big day. These small inserts are included inside the invitation and aim to give a fuller picture of the wedding, including important information such as reception details, directions, transportation schedules, accommodation options, and dress codes. Enclosure cards ensure that guests have all the necessary information ahead of time, preventing confusion on the wedding day. They are particularly useful for multi-day events or destination weddings, where more details need to be communicated. Couples can choose from various types of enclosure cards, such as reception cards, response cards, accommodation cards, attire cards, and direction cards, to provide a clear and concise overview of their wedding plans.

Reception cards

Enclosure cards, also known as wedding details cards, are an optional addition to your wedding invitation suite. They are especially useful if you have a lot of details to communicate to your guests, which is often the case for multi-day events or destination weddings.

• Location: Include the full name of your reception venue, along with the street address, city, and state.
• Timing: If the reception begins as soon as the ceremony is over, you can use "following the ceremony" on your card. You can also note if there is a cocktail hour, or specify dinner and/or dancing start times.
• Attire: This is a good place to indicate the dress code, if there is one.
• Additional details: You could include transportation arrangements or other helpful information, such as a wedding website or hotel accommodations.

Response cards

When including a response card in your wedding invitation, be sure to instruct your guests on how to respond. If you are using a physical response card, provide an envelope and specify how they should return it. Alternatively, if you are using a wedding website for RSVPs, include the website address on your invitations and mention that guests should RSVP there.

When designing your response cards, consider including design elements that complement your wedding invitations and other enclosure cards. This could include matching colours, fonts, or motifs to create a cohesive suite of stationery for your special day.

Accommodation cards

Hotel Recommendations:

It is considerate to provide your guests with a list of recommended hotels or accommodations near the wedding venue. This ensures they are close to the festivities and helps them navigate an unfamiliar location. Include a range of options to cater to different budgets and preferences, from cozy inns to convenient hotels.

Special Wedding Rates:

If you've arranged special rates with hotels for your guests, be sure to include this information on the accommodation card. Provide the hotel names, rates, and any booking codes or instructions for accessing these special rates.

Contact Information and Web Addresses:

For each recommended accommodation, include clear contact information such as the web address, phone number, and physical address. This makes it easier for your guests to make reservations and get in touch with the hotel if needed.

Transportation Information:

If there is a specific shuttle or party bus service that guests can use to travel between venues or to and from the hotel(s), be sure to include this information on the accommodation card or a separate transportation enclosure card.

Map and Directions:

Consider adding a simple map or directions to help guests locate the recommended accommodations, especially if they are located near the wedding venue or other relevant locations.

Design and Formatting:

Timing:

Remember to send out your wedding invitations, complete with enclosure cards, three to six months before the wedding. For destination weddings, it is considerate to send them even earlier (six to nine months in advance) to give guests ample time to make travel arrangements.

By including thoughtful details in your accommodation cards, you can ensure your guests feel well taken care of and have all the information they need to attend your special day.

Attire cards

Enclosure cards are a great way to give your wedding guests more details about your special day. They are small pieces of paper that go inside your wedding invitations and can include information such as reception details, directions, transportation schedules, and any other important instructions for guests.

• Keep it concise: While it's important to provide clear instructions, try to keep the wording on your attire card concise. Focus on the key information and consider including a gentle reminder to refer to your wedding website for more details.
• Match your wedding invitations: Attire cards are meant to complement your wedding invitations, so choose a design, colour, and style that match your invitation suite. This creates a cohesive look for your wedding stationery.
• Proofread carefully: Before finalising your attire cards, be sure to proofread the wording carefully. You want to ensure that your cards are flawless, just like your wedding day.
• Consider special requirements: If you have any special requirements or suggestions for attire, be sure to include them. For example, if you're having a themed wedding, such as a rustic or vintage-themed celebration, you can provide guests with dress code ideas that align with your theme.
• Provide context: Use your attire card to give context to your dress code. For example, if you're having an outdoor wedding, let guests know that flat shoes are recommended due to the terrain.
• Be mindful of the weather: If your wedding will be held during a particular season or in a location with unpredictable weather, suggest attire options that will keep your guests comfortable. For instance, you can mention bringing a shawl or light jacket for cool evenings.

Direction cards

Enclosure cards, also known as wedding details cards or wedding invitation inserts, are used to communicate important information to guests that doesn't fit on the main invitation or RSVP card. They are usually included with the formal wedding invitation and are designed to match the style and aesthetic of the wedding invitation suite.

• Include clear and detailed instructions: Provide step-by-step directions to ensure that guests can find their way to the wedding, especially if they don't have access to a GPS. Consider including insider information, such as alternative routes to avoid traffic during rush hour.
• Add visual aids: Enhance the card's design by adding simple maps, landmarks, or other visual elements to make it easier for guests to navigate to the wedding venue.
• Mention parking and transportation options: Include information about parking availability and any alternative transportation arrangements, such as shuttle services, to help guests plan their journey.
• Match the style of your invitations: Direction cards should complement the style and design of your wedding invitations, creating a cohesive suite of stationery.
• Provide direction cards for multiple events: If you have multiple wedding events at different locations, consider creating separate direction cards for each event to ensure guests have clear instructions for each occasion.
• Offer digital directions: If you're opting for digital wedding invitations, you can include direction details on your wedding website or provide links to maps and directions.

Frequently asked questions