Invitation Detail Cards: Enhancing Your Wedding Theme And Logistics

Wedding invitation detail cards are an essential part of the wedding stationery suite. They are small pieces of stationery that provide guests with additional information that wouldn't typically go on the main invitation card. Detail cards are used to communicate need-to-know information to guests, such as reception locations, dress codes, travel and accommodation details, and website links. They are especially useful for destination weddings or multi-event celebrations, where more information needs to be conveyed to guests. Detail cards can also add a unique flair to the invitation suite, with colourful shapes, custom accents, and previews of the wedding aesthetic.

Response cards

There are 3 pieces of key information you should include on your response card:

• A deadline for guests to respond by. This should be around four weeks before the wedding date to give you and your vendors enough time to finalise any last-minute details.
• A blank line for guests to write their names. On a formal RSVP card, this is known as the "M" line, where guests can include their proper title (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss).
• A way for guests to indicate the number of people attending in their party.

Depending on the type of reception you are having, you might also want to include:

• Dinner options for guests to choose from if you are serving a plated meal.
• A special request line, such as a song request or their drink of choice.
• Any dietary requirements or food allergies.

Accommodation cards

When including accommodation cards, it is recommended to offer multiple lodging options to cater to different preferences and budgets. Provide clear contact information, such as the hotel's name, street address, phone number, and any booking codes or special arrangements made for your guests. You may also include the name or group code your room blocks are listed under, along with the date to reserve by. If a shuttle is provided from the hotel to the wedding venue, this can also be mentioned on the accommodation card.

To save on costs, you can include your wedding website at the bottom of the accommodation card instead of as a separate insert. This way, guests can refer to the website for further details or additional accommodation options. Keep the information on the card concise and well-organised to ensure it is easy for your guests to read and reference.

If you have reserved hotel room blocks for your guests, it is recommended to share this information on an accommodation card. This is especially important if you have a significant number of out-of-town guests who may not be familiar with the area or comfortable navigating your wedding website.

Reception cards

The reception card should include the name and address of the venue, as well as the start time of the festivities. If you are hosting a cocktail hour, be sure to include this, along with any attire notations, such as "black-tie" or "cocktail attire".

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. For example, "Cocktail hour begins at six o'clock, dinner and dancing to follow".

If you are providing transportation between the ceremony and reception venues, you can include this information on the reception card.

If your reception is adults-only, it is recommended to address this in person or over the phone. However, if you do choose to include this information on your reception card, "adult reception" is preferred over "no children".

Finally, if you are having a simple cake and champagne reception, it is a good idea to let your guests know so they don't arrive expecting a full meal.

Itinerary cards

The card should include the order of events, from the ceremony to the reception, and any other celebrations such as a post-wedding brunch. It is also an opportunity to include practical information such as transport options between venues and parking instructions.

The design of the itinerary card can be creative and fun, with small graphics or illustrations. It should complement the style and aesthetic of your wedding invitation suite, including any save-the-date cards, RSVP cards, and return envelopes. You can work with a stationery designer to create a bespoke design or use customisable templates available online.

It is recommended to send out formal wedding invitations, including the itinerary cards, around three to six months before the wedding. For destination weddings, it is advisable to send out invitations earlier (six to nine months in advance) to allow guests to make travel arrangements.

Map/direction cards

These cards can be designed with creative flair, featuring cheeky wording, beautiful illustrations, or unexpected designs. They can be simple text-based directions or include a hand-drawn map for a fun and colourful element. If you're on a tight budget, text-based directions are the most affordable option.

When creating map/direction cards, it's essential to keep the information concise and to the point. Include only the necessary details, such as directions or a map, and avoid adding extra information that might clutter the card.

You can also consider combining the map/direction card with other information, such as a tri-panel or z-fold card that includes parking information or transportation details. This way, you can provide a comprehensive overview of the practical details for your guests while adding a unique touch to your wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions