Invitation Suites: Understanding Their Role In Your Wedding

A wedding invitation suite is a set of matching cards that contain all the information guests need to know about a wedding. The suite is mailed in an envelope and includes the wedding invitation, which shares the most important details of the event, such as the date, time, and location. It may also include response cards, reception cards, accommodation cards, direction cards, and other details. Couples can personalise their invitation suite with their wedding colour palette, colourful envelopes, lace details, custom photos, belly bands, and more.

Response card and envelope

Response cards are a critical part of your wedding stationery suite. They are included with a wedding invitation to give you an accurate guest count for the reception. They are not used for ceremony-only invitations. Response cards are usually included as part of an invitation set, designed in the same style and paper stock as the invitation but in a smaller size.

When sending response cards, it is important to include a pre-addressed envelope and a stamp for your guests' convenience. It is also helpful to number the names on your guest list and write the corresponding number on the back of each response card, so you can easily look up responses. If you are offering entrée choices at your reception, it is a good idea to include checkboxes on the response cards for guests to indicate their preferences.

The response card should also include a "reply by" date, usually two to three weeks before the wedding, to give hosts time to follow up with guests who have not yet replied and to provide accurate headcounts to wedding vendors.

> M__________________________________________

>   [ ] accept(s) [or, will attend]

>   [ ] regret(s) [or, will not attend]

>  The favour of your reply is requested [or, Please reply] by July 26

The "M" precedes the space where the guest(s) write their name(s) and the name of their plus one, if they were invited to bring one:

> Mr. and Mrs. James Bailey

If you prefer to receive replies via email or telephone, include the necessary information on the response card and skip the envelope.

Reception card

A wedding invitation suite is a collection of paper goods that accompany the wedding invitation. It typically includes a response card, directions, and accommodation details. However, if the wedding ceremony and reception are held in different locations, a separate reception card is necessary.

The reception card is an optional but important component of the wedding invitation suite. It provides guests with essential information about the reception, such as the location, address, and time. If the reception is held before 1 p.m., it is customary to indicate "Breakfast Reception" on the card, while receptions held after 1 p.m. can simply be labelled as "Reception".

The reception card also sets the tone and nature of the event. For instance, if you plan to have a sit-down meal, the card should specify a "Dinner Reception". Additionally, if you intend to host an adults-only reception, this information can be discreetly included on the reception card as the last line.

The reception card ensures that your guests have clear instructions on where and when to celebrate with you after the wedding ceremony. It is particularly useful when the ceremony and reception venues are different, providing clarity and convenience for your guests.

Direction card

A direction card is an optional but helpful addition to a wedding invitation suite. It is especially useful if you're having a destination wedding or have guests coming in from out of town. A direction card ensures that all your guests are able to arrive at your wedding, even if they don't have a smartphone or if there is poor signal reception in the wedding venue's area.

It is also a good idea to include insider information on the direction card, such as parking lot details, passcodes, or any special requirements of the venue. This way, you avoid cramming too much information onto the wedding invite.

Legibility is key when it comes to direction cards. It is important to use a font that is easy to read for all of your guests. If you don't include a direction card, you should still list the venue's address and directions to it on your wedding website.

For a more personal touch, you can include a custom weekend map. This makes a great addition and keepsake for you and your guests.

Attire card

A wedding invitation suite is a collection of paper goods sent along with the wedding invitation. It typically includes a response card, directions, and accommodations. One of the optional cards that can be included in a wedding invitation suite is an attire card, also known as a dress code card.

An attire card informs guests about the expected dress code for the wedding. This helps to ensure that the event aligns with the desired level of formality and that guests know what is expected of them in terms of their attire. There are three main places to include the dress code: on the wedding invitation, on a separate information or details card, or on the wedding website.

When including the dress code on the wedding invitation, it is typically placed in the lower left or right-hand corner, or at the bottom centre of the design. This allows for a simple and uncluttered invitation design.

A separate information or details card can also be included in the wedding invitation suite, providing guests with additional important information such as directions, accommodations, and the dress code. This helps to keep the invitation itself concise and straightforward.

Alternatively, the wedding website is another option for communicating the dress code to guests. This can be especially useful if the couple is providing other details and important information on the website.

When deciding on the dress code, it is essential to consider the formality of the event. Some common dress codes for weddings include white tie, black tie, formal or black tie optional, lounge suit or semi-formal, jacket and tie, cocktail attire, and smart casual.

Accommodations card

An accommodations card is a type of insert included in your wedding invitation envelope. It is typically sent to every wedding guest and informs them about lodging and accommodation options. This is especially useful if you have guests coming in from out of town, as they will likely need somewhere to stay.

The card should include the following information:

• The hotel and its address
• The block of rooms reserved (may include a group code or name)
• The date the rooms must be reserved by
• The hotel's website and/or phone number
• Transportation information, if a shuttle is provided
• Abstract
• Fall Wedding
• Floral
• Monochromatic
• Minimalist
• Rose Gold
• Gold

You can purchase accommodation cards from various online retailers, such as Etsy, or create your own using a website or service such as Canva or Templett.

Frequently asked questions