The Perfect Wedding Invitation Card: Two Essential Types

Wedding invitation cards are more than just a pretty card in an envelope. Even the simplest of designs include a few extra pieces, such as an RSVP card and envelope, before adding things like envelope liners and belly bands. The invitation itself should mention who is getting married, and when and where the ceremony and reception will be held.

The details card should include all the extra details that will help guests plan and prepare for the big day. This includes the full address and contact details for the venue(s), parking arrangements, transport options, accommodation suggestions, venue payment methods, arrival and finish times, menu options, dress code, gift list or poem, and whether children are invited.

The invitation suite refers to the components of the wedding invitation itself (everything that goes in the envelope). This includes the invitation, RSVP card and envelope, details card, outer envelope, and a stamp. Optional elements include a reception card, accommodations card, weekend events card, directions card, inner envelope, address labels, envelope liners, belly bands, and wax seals.

The request to come to the wedding

The Request to Attend

Extending an invitation to your wedding is more than just informing guests about the event; it is an expression of joy and a desire to share your special day with loved ones. The wording can be creative and whimsical or classic and traditional, reflecting your personality and style. Here are some examples to consider:

"The pleasure of your company is requested at our wedding."

"We would be honoured by your presence as we exchange our vows."

"Join us as we celebrate our love and commitment."

Creative Ways to Invite

If you want to add a touch of creativity or whimsy to your request, here are some ideas:

"We're tying the knot! Come celebrate with us."

"Let's eat, drink and be married! Your presence is requested at our wedding."

"Love is in the air, and we want you to be a part of it. Please join us as we say 'I do'."

Emphasising the Celebration

It is important to emphasise that the wedding is a celebration and that their presence will add to the joy of the occasion:

"We invite you to share in our happiness as we exchange our wedding vows."

"We would love for you to join the celebration of our union."

"Let's celebrate! Your presence is requested at our wedding ceremony and reception."

Formal Request Wording

For a more formal or traditional wedding, consider the following examples:

"The honour of your presence is requested at the marriage of Emma Johnson and Jackson Brown."

"Together with their families, Emma and Jackson request the pleasure of your company at their wedding celebration."

"You are cordially invited to witness the union of Emma and Jackson and to participate in the festivities that follow."

Casual and Warm Invitation

If you prefer a more casual and warm tone that reflects your relationship with your guests, try these:

"We'd be thrilled if you could join us on our special day."

"We're getting married! It would mean the world to us if you could be there."

"We're tying the knot and want you to be a part of it. Please join us for our wedding celebration."

The names of the couple

If the bride's parents are hosting, their names would typically be listed at the top of the invite, followed by the couple's names. In the case of divorced parents, each name would be listed separately. For same-sex couples, the names of both sets of parents can be listed according to preference or design aesthetics.

If the couple is hosting the wedding themselves, a warm and welcoming introduction can be used, such as "Together with full hearts" or "With hearts full of love and joy".

• "Emma and Jax request the pleasure of your company..."
• "Julia French, daughter of Mr. Adam French and the late Iris French, and Austin Mahoney, son of Mr. Camden and Elizabeth Mahoney, request the honour of your presence..."
• "Dr. Vance and Elizabeth Gregory and Mr. James Abner and Lydia Abner and Mr. Harold and Jane Hyland invite you to the wedding of their children Amy Abner and Charles Hyland"
• "Grace and Russell Fitzpatrick are getting hitched!"
• "Samantha Maxx and Andrew Isaac request the pleasure of your company..."
• "Please join us as we celebrate our wedding, Chase Mattson & Kelianne Stankus"

Reception information

The reception information can be included on the wedding invitation itself if the ceremony and reception are held at the same location. In this case, you can simply write "Reception to follow" or "Dinner and dancing to follow". If the reception is at a different location, it is best to include this information on a separate card, known as a reception card.

The reception card should include the time and location of the reception, as well as directions or parking information if needed. If the reception is at a different time than the ceremony, be sure to include the time. You can also mention if there will be any specific type of entertainment, such as "dinner and dancing" or "cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and dancing".

If the reception has a specific dress code, this can also be included on the reception card. For example, if the reception is black-tie, formal attire, or cocktail attire, it is helpful to specify this for your guests.

For destination weddings or weddings with multiple events, it is a good idea to include a full itinerary or schedule for guests, so they know what to expect and can plan accordingly. This can be included on the reception card or on a separate insert card.

• "Reception immediately following the ceremony"
• "Dinner and dancing to follow"
• "Cake, punch, and merriment to follow"
• "Feasting and merriment to follow"
• "Dining, dancing, and happily ever after to follow"

RSVP card and envelope

The RSVP card and envelope are essential components of any wedding invitation suite. Here are some detailed instructions and suggestions for creating your RSVP cards and envelopes:

RSVP Cards:

• Deadline and Response Options: It is recommended to set an RSVP deadline of around three to four weeks before the wedding date. This deadline should be clearly indicated on the card, with wording such as "Kindly respond by [date]" or "Please reply by [date]." The card should also include options for guests to accept or decline the invitation, such as checkboxes, fill-in-the-blank lines, or other creative formats.
• Guest Names: Include a blank line for guests to write their names, starting with "M" to indicate the use of proper honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss). This ensures you know who is attending and how to spell their names correctly on the seating chart.
• Dietary Requirements: If you are offering meal choices at the reception, include a section for guests to indicate their entrée preferences and any dietary restrictions or allergies.
• Special Requests: You may also include a special request line, such as song requests, drink preferences, or a space for guests to share a favourite memory or relationship advice.
• Creativity: Feel free to add a creative twist to your RSVP cards. You can replace traditional phrases with whimsical alternatives, such as "I'll be there with bells on" or "No, and I'll forever regret this decision." You can also add fun questions, such as requesting song suggestions or date ideas.

RSVP Envelopes:

• Pre-addressing and Stamping: It is courteous and helpful to pre-address and pre-stamp the RSVP envelopes. This makes it easier for guests to respond promptly and ensures they don't have to worry about postage. Use the same stamp design as your main invitation to maintain a cohesive look.
• Return Address: The return address for the RSVP cards should be the address of the person in charge of collecting responses, whether it's the couple, a designated family member, or a wedding planner. This may differ from the return address on the main invitation.
• Timing: Send out your RSVP cards along with the official wedding invitation, which is typically six to eight weeks before the wedding. For destination weddings, allow extra time and send them out three months in advance.

Wedding website card

A wedding website card is a separate enclosure card that can be included in your wedding invitation suite. It is a great way to provide guests with a summary of your wedding website, where they can find more detailed information about your wedding.

The card should include the URL of your wedding website, along with a brief and catchy introductory phrase, encouraging guests to visit the site for more details. For example, "Visit our website for more wedding details". If your wedding website has a password, be sure to include this on the card as well.

A wedding website card is especially useful if you have a lot of information to communicate to your guests, such as travel and accommodation recommendations, multiple events, and registry details. It is also helpful for guests who are not tech-savvy and may prefer a physical card over a digital website.

Keep the card concise and to the point, as too much text may appear cluttered and difficult to read. You can also include your wedding website URL on the bottom of another insert card, such as an accommodation card, to save on costs and avoid overwhelming your guests with too many enclosure cards.

Frequently asked questions