The Ultimate Wedding Invitation Suite: Components And Essentials

A wedding invitation suite is a set of matching cards that provide guests with all the necessary information about the big day. The suite includes the invitation itself, which details the who, what, where, and when of the wedding, as well as additional enclosure cards with extra details. These enclosure cards may include RSVP cards, reception details, transportation information, directions, wedding itineraries, attire suggestions, and accommodation recommendations. Couples can also include decorative elements such as colourful envelopes, lace details, belly bands, and custom stamps. The invitation suite is typically sent out six to eight weeks before the wedding, allowing guests ample time to respond and make travel arrangements.

Response/RSVP card

Format and Content

Digital vs Physical Response Cards

While physical response cards are traditional, digital RSVPs through wedding websites or online guest managers are becoming increasingly popular. Digital RSVPs offer convenience, allowing couples to receive responses promptly and manage their guest list more efficiently. However, physical response cards are still preferred by some, especially older guests who may not be comfortable with technology.

Enclosure with Invitation Suite

When including physical response cards, it is essential to provide a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for guests to return their responses. This envelope should be smaller than the outer mailing envelope and should be designed to fit the response card snugly. The host's address and a name should be included on the envelope to facilitate the return.

Timing and Postage

Wedding invitation suites, including response cards, are typically sent out 6-8 weeks before the wedding. For destination weddings, it is advisable to send them out around 12 weeks in advance. It is recommended to take a fully assembled invitation to the post office to get an accurate weight and determine the correct postage amount.

Reception card

A reception card is one of the most important elements of a wedding invitation suite, especially if the wedding reception is at a separate venue from the ceremony. This is a common scenario, particularly when the ceremony takes place in a religious or outdoor setting with limited facilities for the reception.

The reception card should include the following information, written in simple, straightforward language:

• The date and time of the reception
• The time dinner will be served (if applicable)
• The location of the reception venue
• Details of what will occur at the reception (e.g. dinner, drinks, appetizers, dancing, etc.)

The reception card is also a good place to indicate whether the reception will be adults-only, though this can also be communicated via word-of-mouth or by addressing invitations to specific individuals.

If you are hosting a reception before 1 pm, the first line of the card should say 'Breakfast Reception'. Anything after 1 pm is simply ''Reception'. If you are serving a sit-down meal, the first line should read 'Dinner Reception'.

Direction card

A direction card is an important addition to a wedding invitation suite, especially if your wedding venue is in a rural area or off the beaten path. A direction card can be extremely useful in helping guests arrive on time and avoid getting lost, as they may not have a smartphone or the area may have poor signal reception.

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When creating a direction card, it is essential to include clear and concise directions to the wedding venue. Provide step-by-step instructions, including any relevant landmarks, highway exits, or public transport options that may be helpful for your guests. Remember that not everyone is familiar with the area, so be as detailed as possible.

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In addition to written directions, consider including a visual map or custom weekend map. This adds a personal touch and makes it easier for guests to visualise the route. Combining written directions with a map will ensure your direction card is effective and user-friendly, especially for guests who are on the move.

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If your wedding is taking place in an urban area, providing alternative routes and information on rush hour times and streets to avoid can be incredibly helpful for your guests. This will allow them to navigate local traffic and arrive on time, ensuring a seamless experience for everyone.

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Remember to consider the format and font size of your direction card. It should be easy to read and understand for all your guests. If you have guests with visual impairments, consider making the font size larger or providing an alternative format, such as a digital version that can be enlarged on a screen.

By including a well-designed direction card in your wedding invitation suite, you can ensure that your guests have the information they need to arrive at your special day without getting lost along the way!

Accommodations card

An accommodations card is an optional but thoughtful addition to a wedding invitation suite, particularly if you have guests coming from out of town. It is a separate card that provides guests with hotel options and other useful information to help them plan their trip.

What to Include on the Accommodations Card

The card should include the name and address of the hotel(s) you are recommending, along with any booking details such as special codes or deadlines. If you have reserved a room block, be sure to mention this, along with any instructions on how to utilise the room block. This information is especially helpful for guests who may not be checking your wedding website.

Additional Information

If you are covering guests' accommodations, it is proper etiquette to indicate this on the card. You can also include information on transportation to and from the hotel(s) to the wedding venue.

Design and Format

The accommodations card can be designed to match the rest of your wedding invitation suite, incorporating your chosen colour scheme or any other decorative elements you have selected. It is a good opportunity to add a creative touch that reflects your unique wedding style.

Timing

It is recommended to send out your wedding invitation suite, including any enclosure cards, around six to eight weeks before the wedding date. For destination weddings, it is advisable to send out the invitations earlier, approximately 12 weeks in advance, to allow guests ample time for travel arrangements.

Attire card

An attire card is an important part of a wedding invitation suite, as it helps guests avoid any wardrobe embarrassment. While many weddings encourage formal attire, it can be difficult for guests to gauge the exact level of formality.

The attire card should specify the dress code for the ceremony and reception. Here are some examples of dress codes that can be included:

• Black tie: Formal gowns and tuxedos are typically expected for a black-tie wedding.
• Cocktail: Cocktail attire signifies that dresses can be shorter in length while still maintaining a fairly formal look.
• Semi-formal: A semi-formal dress code typically includes long, but simple dresses paired with suits (but not tuxedos).
• Casual: Casual wedding attire is often welcome for outdoor ceremonies, especially those near the beach. For a casual dress code, guests may opt for lightweight maxi dresses, button-up shirts, and slacks.

The attire card can be added to another enclosure card or included on its own as a small business card. It is also possible to include this information on the wedding website, which guests can access by scanning a QR code or entering a password.

Frequently asked questions