Wedding Invitation Essentials: What To Include

Wedding invitations are the first glimpse into what your big day will be like, so it's important to include all the necessary information for your guests. While the design and style of invitations vary, there are some key elements that should be included. Firstly, the invitation should include the names of the couple getting married, along with the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. It is also helpful to include a way for guests to RSVP, such as a response card with a pre-addressed and stamped envelope, or a link to a wedding website. Other details such as dress code, travel and accommodation information, and parking arrangements can also be included, either on the invitation itself or on a separate details card.

Names of the couple and hosts

The names of the couple and hosts are a key part of a wedding invitation. The invitation should open with an "invitational line", listing the names of the hosts, whether that's the couple themselves or their parents or other relatives. If the parents are contributing financially or covering all the costs, it's customary to include them.

The couple's names should also be included, of course. For heterosexual couples, the woman's name typically goes first, but you can order your names however you like. LGBTQIA+ couples may want to list their names alphabetically, by age, or in another way that suits them. You can include first and middle names, first and last names, or full legal names. If the parents' names are mentioned, the couple will often use their first and middle names, but you can also use the formality level of your wedding as a guide. For example, at a black-tie ballroom event, you might use full names, while a casual beach ceremony might call for just first names.

If the hosts are different from the couple, the invitation should include a "request line" such as "Request the Pleasure of Your Company", "Invite You to Celebrate the Marriage of" or, if the ceremony is taking place in a place of worship, "Request the Honour of Your Presence".

Date, time and location

The date, time and location of your wedding are essential pieces of information to include in your invitations. Here are some tips on how to do this effectively:

Date and Time

Confirming the date and time of your wedding is crucial. While guests may have marked their calendars based on your save-the-dates, it's important to include this information in the invitation to avoid any confusion or late arrivals. Be sure to specify the hour and time of day (a.m. vs. p.m.) to ensure clarity. For formal invitations, it is customary to write out the time rather than using numerals (e.g., "four o'clock in the afternoon").

Location

Providing the name and address of your ceremony and reception venues is imperative, especially if they are at different locations. This way, your guests know exactly where they need to be and when. If the ceremony and reception are at the same place, you can simply include a line like "Reception to Follow" or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow." However, if they are at different venues, you'll need to include a separate reception card with the start time and address.

Additional Venue Information

If your venue is unique or in an unfamiliar location, consider including extra information such as parking instructions or a custom map illustration. This can be especially helpful for guests who don't have smartphones or are travelling from out of town. You can also provide the venue's website, which may offer useful information like maps and directions.

RSVP and Website Details

While not directly related to the date, time, and location, including an RSVP card and your wedding website address are crucial components of your invitation. The RSVP card allows guests to confirm their attendance, and the website serves as a central resource for all the additional information they may need, such as accommodation options, travel details, and dress code.

RSVP details

RSVP Cards

Including an RSVP card is essential, even if you have a wedding website where guests can respond. A physical card is helpful for less tech-savvy guests and can also be fun, allowing you to showcase your personality with creative wording. The RSVP card should include a specific date for guests to respond by—it is recommended that this deadline is at least two weeks before the wedding. It is also important to include a place for guests to write their names and, if you are offering a plated dinner, their entrée preference.

Online RSVPs

If you are collecting RSVPs through your wedding website, ensure that the website address is clearly stated on the invitation, preferably on its own small card. Even if you have already mentioned it on a save-the-date, it is worth including it again. When it comes to online RSVPs, it is considerate to send a physical RSVP card to older guests who may not be comfortable using a computer.

Additional Events

If you are hosting additional events, such as a welcome party or a farewell brunch, it is best to include a separate insert in the invitation or send something separately. This ensures that your guests do not miss this information, which could happen if it is only included on the "events" page of your website. You can also ask guests to RSVP to these additional events when they respond to the wedding invitation.

Practical Information

Provide clear and detailed instructions on your RSVP section to make it easy for your guests to respond. Number the names on your guest list and write the corresponding number on the back of the RSVP card, so you can identify each response, especially if someone forgets to include their name. Include a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for your guests' convenience.

Gift Registry

While your guests will be interested in your gift registry, it is considered better etiquette to include this information on your website or a separate enclosure card, rather than the RSVP section of your invitation.

Adults-Only Events

If you are planning an adults-only event, it is best to communicate this information verbally or by addressing the invitations specifically to the parents. If you feel it needs to be included in writing, place it at the end of your reception details.

Dress code

The dress code is an important part of a wedding invitation as it helps your guests plan and prepare for your big day. Here are some tips and suggestions for including the dress code on your wedding invitations:

Including the Dress Code:

• Including the dress code on your wedding invitations is optional. Nowadays, many couples choose to use their wedding website to communicate attire details.
• However, if you have a specific dress code that you want your guests to follow, it is best to include it on the invitation or a separate details card. This ensures that everyone has access to the information and avoids any confusion.
• If you have a less common dress code, such as a religious ceremony with modesty guidelines, it is especially important to include this information on the invitation.
• Be clear and specific about your dress code expectations. For example, you can indicate whether the attire is casual, dressy casual, semi-formal, black-tie optional, black tie, or white tie.

Wording and Examples:

• When wording your dress code, use standard terms that are easily understandable by your guests. Avoid vague or confusing phrases like "dress chic."
• Here are some examples of dress code wording:
• "Black-tie optional"
• "Formal attire, wedding hats encouraged"
• "The wedding party will be in pink, we'd love you to coordinate!"
• "The reception will be in a barn on a working farm, please choose your footwear accordingly."
• If you have a wedding website, you can also include a link to a more detailed explanation of the dress code.

Other Considerations:

• Consider the formality of your wedding when deciding on the dress code. For example, a black-tie ballroom soiree may call for more formal attire than a casual beach ceremony.
• Take into account the venue and activities of your wedding. For instance, if your reception is in a barn or on a farm, guests will need to dress accordingly and choose suitable footwear.
• Be mindful of the comfort and preferences of your guests. While you can encourage certain styles or colours, ultimately, it is their choice what to wear.
• If you have any pre or post-wedding events, consider including the dress code for those as well, especially if it differs from the wedding ceremony and reception.

Extra venue information

If your wedding venue is in a unique location (e.g. a national park) or somewhere your guests may not be familiar with, it's a good idea to include extra information about the venue on a separate insert. This can include instructions for parking, a custom map of the area, or a list of things for guests to do before the wedding.

Parking

It is helpful to include information about parking arrangements, especially if parking is tricky or limited. For example, if your venue is in the centre of town, you could suggest other places where guests can park. You could also mention if your venue allows overnight parking for guests who may want to leave their car and take a taxi home.

Transport

If you are laying on transport for your guests, include brief details about where and when the pick-ups are and what time the return journey will be.

Accommodation

If there is accommodation available for guests at your venue or nearby, include the details. Give the venue name, address, contact details, and any special rates available, as well as instructions on how to book.

Cashless Venues

If your venue is cashless, let your guests know that card or contactless payments are the only accepted forms of payment.

Arrival Time

Your main invitation should state the ceremony time, but you may want your guests to arrive and be seated a little before this. If you have arranged for arrival drinks before the ceremony, let your guests know.

Departure Time

It is helpful to let your guests know what time the celebrations will end, especially if they need to pre-book taxis or arrange transport. A traditional way of conveying this is to write 'Carriages at [time]'.

Menu

If you are giving your guests the opportunity to pre-order from several menu options, include this on your details card. It is also good to ask for dietary requirements when your guests reply, either via an RSVP card, website, phone, or email.

Dress Code

While you may want your guests to choose their own attire, there are some instances where you might want to give more specific instructions. For example, if you have chosen a specific dress code like black tie, or if the reception will be in a barn on a working farm, you may want to advise your guests to choose their footwear accordingly.

Frequently asked questions