The Art Of Wedding Invitations: A Guide To Sending Them

Sending out wedding invitations is a major undertaking. Before you even get to the designing aspect, you'll need to do your research. Wedding invitations should include the request to come to the wedding, the names of the couple, and reception information. It's also important to include a response card and envelope, as well as important information like directions and accommodations. When it comes to the invitation design, couples commonly forget to include key details like time, date, ceremony location, and/or the reception location.

The invitation itself: the who, what, when, and where of the wedding

The invitation itself should include all the essential information about the wedding, covering the who, what, when, and where.

Who?

The invitation should include the names of the couple getting married. For heterosexual couples, the woman's name typically comes first, but couples can order their names however they prefer. LGBTQIA+ couples may choose to list their names alphabetically, by age, or in an order that sounds better.

The invitation should also include the names of the hosts, usually the people paying for the wedding. This is often the couple's parents, but it could also be the couple themselves, or both sets of parents if both are contributing financially.

The invitation should include a request for guests to attend, such as "request the pleasure of your company", "invite you to celebrate with them", or "honour of your presence".

The date and time of the ceremony are essential. It is also important to include the year, and to write out the time of day in full.

Where?

The invitation should include the name and location of the ceremony and reception venue(s). If the ceremony and reception are at the same location, the invitation can include a line such as "reception to follow" or "dinner and dancing to follow". If the reception is at a different location, this information should be included on a separate card.

Additional Details

The invitation may also include the dress code, either explicitly or by indicating the formality of the event. It is also becoming more common to include the wedding website address, so guests can find further information.

Response card and envelope: a way for guests to RSVP

Response cards are a crucial part of the wedding invitation suite, providing a convenient way for guests to RSVP and share any additional information you may need. Here are some tips and suggestions for including response cards and envelopes in your wedding invitations:

The Response Card:

The response card is a must-have in your wedding invitation suite, even if you're offering an online RSVP option through your wedding website. It's a traditional and thoughtful gesture, especially for guests who may not be comfortable with technology. The response card should be simple and straightforward, allowing guests to confirm their attendance and provide any necessary details. Here are some key considerations for the response card:

• Size and Design: Response cards are typically small, often around 3.5" x 5" or 4" x 6". They can be designed to match the style and colour scheme of your wedding invitations, adding a cohesive touch to your stationery suite.
• Wording and Content: Keep the wording on the response card clear and concise. Include a line for guests to write their names and a simple "Accepts with pleasure" or "Declines with regret" option for them to indicate their attendance. If you're offering meal choices, include checkboxes for guests to select their preferences. You may also want to include a space for guests to provide any additional information, such as dietary restrictions or song requests.
• RSVP Date: It's important to set an RSVP date to ensure you receive responses in a timely manner. Typically, the deadline is set for two to three weeks before the wedding date, giving you enough time to finalise details with your caterer and create a seating chart. Don't forget to clearly indicate this date on the response card.

The Response Envelope:

Along with the response card, providing a pre-addressed and stamped envelope is essential for making the RSVP process convenient for your guests. Here are some key considerations for the response envelope:

• Address and Postage: The response envelope should be addressed to the host's address, with postage included. This saves your guests the hassle of finding stamps and ensures a higher response rate. It's also a good idea to hand-cancel the stamps at the post office to avoid machine-made wavy lines on your beautiful envelopes.
• Numbering or Coding: To keep track of responses, consider numbering the backs of the response cards and matching them to your guest list. This helps in cases where handwriting is illegible or a guest forgets to include their name. Alternatively, you can use a unique code or symbol for each guest, making it easier to identify who has responded.
• Envelope Size: Ensure the response envelope is large enough to accommodate the response card without folding. It should fit snugly inside your main invitation envelope, allowing guests to easily return their responses.

Including response cards and envelopes in your wedding invitations is a thoughtful way to facilitate guest participation and gather the information you need for your big day. It adds a traditional and personal touch to your wedding stationery, making it a memorable part of the wedding experience for both you and your guests.

Inner envelope: indicates who is and isn't invited

The inner envelope is slightly smaller than the outer mailing envelope and holds the invitation itself. It indicates who is specifically invited to the wedding and, by extension, who isn't. This is where you write the names of each guest. If a guest will have a specific plus-one, write both their names. If they can bring anyone, write their name followed by "and guest". If there is no plus-one, simply include the guest's name.

The inner envelope is also the place to indicate whether or not children are invited. If you are inviting a family with children, the outer envelope should be addressed to "The [surname]" and the inner envelope should be addressed to include the children's names. If it's adults-only, the outer envelope should be addressed to the parents' names only.

Reception card: details of the reception venue, if different from the ceremony

Reception Card

If your wedding reception is at a different venue from your ceremony, it's important to include a separate reception card with your wedding invitation. This card should include the details of the reception venue, including the location, start time and date.

The reception card should also indicate the formality and nature of the event. For example, if your reception is before 1 pm, the first line of the card should say 'Breakfast Reception'. If it's after 1 pm, simply write 'Reception'. If you're having a sit-down meal, the first line should read 'Dinner Reception'.

If you'd like to throw an adults-only reception, you can include an 'Adults-Only Reception' line on the card, or indicate this through the names addressed on the invitation.

If your ceremony and reception are at the same venue, you can include a line on your invitation such as 'Reception to Follow', 'Celebration to Follow', or 'Dinner and Dancing to Follow'.

Directions: how to get to the wedding venue

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's important to include clear and detailed directions to the venue. Here are four to six paragraphs with instructions on how to get to the wedding venue:

Directions to the Wedding Venue

The wedding ceremony and reception will be held at [venue name], located at [venue address].

By Car:

For guests travelling by car, the venue is easily accessible via [highway name] or [road name]. When approaching from the [north, south, east, or west], take the exit for [exit name] and follow signs for [area or neighbourhood]. The venue will be on your [left or right] after passing [landmark].

By Public Transport:

For guests opting for public transportation, the nearest train station/bus stop is [station/stop name], which is served by the [train line/bus number]. From there, it's a short [walk or taxi ride] to the venue.

Parking Information:

On-site parking is available at the venue for those driving. There is also additional parking available at [nearby parking lot or structure]. We encourage guests to carpool or use ride-sharing services whenever possible to reduce traffic congestion.

Additional Notes:

For guests staying at the recommended hotels, the wedding party will be providing shuttle services to and from the venue. Please refer to the wedding website for more information and to coordinate shuttle arrangements.

Map:

A map with directions to the venue will be included with the invitation suite for guests who prefer a visual guide.

Please note, the venue is a [smoke-free/wheelchair accessible/cashless] facility. We kindly request that guests respect these policies during the event.

Frequently asked questions