The Ultimate Wedding Invite Guide: What To Include

A wedding invitation suite refers to all the paper goods sent along with the wedding invitation. It's important to include all the necessary information to ensure your guests can properly plan for your big day. This includes the date and time of the ceremony, the location, and extra information about the venue. You may also want to include a way for your guests to RSVP, such as a response card or an email address, as well as a way for them to access your wedding website. Here is a list of what to include in a wedding invitation suite:

- Date and time of the ceremony

- Ceremony and reception location

- Wedding website address

- Extra information about the venue

- Response card and envelope

- Outer envelope

- Stamped and addressed RSVP envelope

- Stamp

- Reception card (if different from the ceremony location)

- Accommodations card

- Directions card

- Inner envelope

- Belly bands or wax seal

Date, time and location

The date, time and location of the wedding are essential details that must be included in the wedding invitation. Here are some tips and suggestions for including this information:

Date and Time:

It is important to provide the date and time of the ceremony to ensure your guests know when to arrive. Be sure to include the year, as weddings are often planned well in advance. Specify the time of day, using "am" or "pm" to avoid any confusion. For formal invitations, it is customary to write out the time rather than using numerals (e.g. "four o'clock in the afternoon"). You may also want to include the time for the reception if it is different from the ceremony time.

Location:

Provide the name, address, and city of the venue for both the ceremony and reception, especially if they are taking place at different locations. If the reception immediately follows the ceremony at the same location, you can simply include a line such as "Reception to follow" or "Dinner and dancing to follow". However, if the reception is at a separate venue, include a separate reception card with the address and start time.

Additional Considerations:

• If your wedding is in a unique venue or an outdoor/rural area, consider including parking instructions or a custom map of the area.
• Specify the level of formality or dress code for the wedding, so guests know what is appropriate to wear.
• Include accommodation options for out-of-town guests, such as local hotels or B&Bs within a range of budgets.
• Clearly indicate who is invited. Are children allowed? Are guests allowed to bring a plus one? This can be specified on the outer envelope or through the use of an inner envelope, which provides an easy place to list the names of those specifically invited.

Remember to proofread your invitation to ensure all the necessary details are included, and consider having someone else review it as well to catch any potential omissions or errors.

RSVP details

RSVPs are an important part of the wedding invitation suite. Here are some ideas on what to include in your RSVP details:

Response Card and Envelope

It is standard to include a response card and a pre-addressed, stamped envelope for guests to indicate whether they will be attending. This is a convenient way to collect responses and ensure guests have the necessary postage. Numbering the cards and envelopes can help to keep track of responses.

RSVP Wording

The wording on the response card can be traditional, casual, or humorous. For example, "We have reserved [number] seats in your honour" or a simple "number attending:" line for clarity. The tone of the wording can match the style of the wedding.

RSVP Deadline

Include a specific date by which guests should respond, usually about one month before the ceremony. This is important for confirming numbers with the venue and caterers.

Food Choices

If offering a plated dinner or catering to dietary restrictions, include checkboxes or space for guests to indicate their preferences and any allergies.

Online RSVPs

Some couples may opt for online RSVPs via email or a wedding website. This can be a convenient option, especially for older guests or those with accessibility needs.

Additional Information

The response card can also include other important details, such as accommodation options, transportation information, and directions to the venue. This helps guests plan their travel and provides all the necessary information in one place.

Remember to proofread your RSVP cards and double-check that all the necessary information is included before sending them out!

Dress code

The dress code is an important part of a wedding invitation as it gives your guests an idea of what to wear and ensures your event stays as formal or as casual as you want. It can be included on the lower left or right-hand corner of the invitation or at the bottom centre of the design. Alternatively, you can include it on a separate information or details card or on your wedding website.

• White Tie: "White tie. We ask that men wear tailcoats and women wear floor-length evening gowns or ball gowns. Top hats and gloves are encouraged."
• Black Tie: "Black tie. We ask that men wear a tuxedo and women wear a floor-length gown."
• Black-Tie Optional: "Black-tie optional. We ask that men wear a tuxedo or a dark suit and tie and women wear an evening gown or midi or knee-length cocktail dress."
• Formal Attire: "Formal attire. We suggest that men wear a suit in any colour and women wear a cocktail dress or a nice pantsuit."
• Cocktail Attire: "Cocktail attire. We suggest that men wear a suit or dress shirt with a tie and women wear a midi or knee-length dress or dressy separates."
• Semi-Formal Attire: "We ask that you wear semi-formal attire such as a cocktail-length dress or dressy separates for women and a suit and tie for men. Please note that the venue does not permit blue jeans or sneakers."
• Dressy Casual: "We want you to be comfortable at our wedding. The dress code is dressy casual attire. For this time of year in California, we suggest the following attire: women: sundresses, lightweight separates and flats or wedge heels for the outdoor ceremony on the lawn. Men: light dress shirt with khaki or other lightweight slacks; jackets and ties are optional."
• Casual: "Our wedding will be taking place outdoors. We suggest sundresses and sandals for women and button-down shirts with pants for men. Please, no athletic wear."

Reception information

If your wedding reception is at a different location from the ceremony, it's important to include a separate reception card with all the necessary details. This should include the start time and address of the reception venue. If the reception is at the same location as the ceremony, you can simply include a line such as "Reception to Follow" or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow" at the bottom of the main invitation.

The reception card is also a good place to indicate the formality and nature of the event. For instance, if the reception is before 1 pm, the first line should say "Breakfast Reception". Anything after 1 pm is simply labelled "Reception". If you want to indicate a sit-down meal, the first line should read "Dinner Reception".

If you'd like to specify an adults-only reception, this can be communicated through word-of-mouth and by the names addressed on the invitation. If you do choose to include an "Adults-Only Reception" line, it should be at the end of the reception card.

If your reception has a different address from the ceremony but is at the same venue, it's a good idea to include a custom map or directions card with your invitations. This is especially helpful for guests without smartphones or if your wedding is in a rural location with poor cell service.

If you have a wedding website, you can include the URL on a separate website card. This can direct guests to further information about the reception, such as accommodation options, transportation details, and the dress code.

Directions

Format

The directions can take the form of a separate card included in the invitation suite, providing clear and concise instructions on how to get to the venue. This card can also include other relevant details, such as transport options and parking instructions. Alternatively, you can include the directions on your wedding website, especially if you prefer a more streamlined invitation suite.

Content

The directions should be easy to read and understand, with legibility being key. Consider the font and formatting to ensure all guests can comprehend the instructions. Include the venue's address and postcode, as well as any relevant landmarks that might be helpful. Provide details for various modes of transportation, such as driving directions, public transport options, and even local taxi company contact information. If your wedding has multiple events across different locations, consider including a custom map or itinerary to guide your guests.

Design

You can make the directions card more visually appealing by incorporating a custom map or illustration. This adds a personalised touch and can also serve as a keepsake for your guests. Consider including a custom weekend map or a whimsical hand-painted map of the area, highlighting landmarks, hotels, and wedding venues.

Timing

It is advisable to send out the invitations with ample time to allow guests to review the directions and plan their travel accordingly. This is especially important for destination weddings or weddings with multiple events, giving guests enough time to make the necessary travel arrangements.

Additional Tips

• If you have guests coming from out of town, providing accommodation options and transportation details can be incredibly helpful.
• For weddings in unique or remote locations, consider including extra venue information, such as parking instructions or any other relevant details that will facilitate your guests' arrival.
• Always proofread the directions for accuracy and, if possible, test them out yourself or with someone familiar with the area to ensure they are clear and effective.

Including clear and comprehensive directions in your wedding invitation suite is a thoughtful way to ensure your guests' comfort and timely arrival, allowing them to fully enjoy and celebrate your special day.

Frequently asked questions