Wedding Invitation Essentials: What To Include And Why

Wedding invitations are a major undertaking, and it's important to ensure that guests have all the information they need to celebrate with you. While the invitation itself is key, there are several other elements that should be included in the wedding invitation suite. This includes the obvious, such as an outer envelope, an RSVP card, and a stamped and addressed RSVP envelope, but there are also a number of optional elements that can be included. These range from reception cards and accommodation cards to direction cards and details cards. The invitation suite is also an opportunity to include information about the dress code, gift preferences, and whether the wedding is adults-only.

Date, time and location

The date, time, and location of your wedding are essential details that should be included in your invitation. Here are some tips and suggestions to ensure your guests have the information they need:

Date and Time:

• Confirming the date of your wedding is crucial. It is a good idea to include the date on any save-the-date notices you send out, so guests can mark their calendars in advance.
• Be sure to include the time of the ceremony on your invitations to avoid latecomers. Stating the start time will also help guests know how early they need to arrive.
• Provide the hour and specify the time of day (a.m. or p.m.) to avoid any confusion.
• For formal invitations, write out the time rather than using numerals (e.g., "four o'clock in the afternoon").

Location:

• Include the name and full address of your ceremony and reception venues. This ensures guests know exactly where they are going and can plan their transportation accordingly.
• If your ceremony and reception are at the same location, you can simply add a line like "Reception to Follow" or "Dinner and Dancing to Follow."
• If the reception is at a separate venue, include a separate reception card with the start time and address.
• Consider including brief directions on your invitation, especially if the venue is off the beaten track or hard to find.
• You may also want to note down the websites of the venues if they offer useful information like maps and directions.
• If you are getting married in a unique or unfamiliar location, consider including an insert with extra information, such as parking instructions or a custom map.

Remember, it is essential to provide clear and detailed information about the date, time, and location of your wedding to ensure your guests can plan their attendance and arrive on time without getting lost!

RSVP method

There are several ways to allow your guests to RSVP to your wedding. The most traditional way is to include a response card and a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for your guests' convenience. You can also include a small envelope designed to fit the RSVP card and nothing more, marked with your address so that guests can easily mail their responses.

If you are offering a plated dinner, you can include a place for guests to check their entrée preference. If you have a large guest list, it may be helpful to number the names on your guest list and write the corresponding number on the back of the response card. That way, you can easily look up responses if someone forgets to include their name.

Another option is to direct guests to RSVP on your wedding website. This is a good option for older guests who may not be comfortable using a computer, or for guests who live in a different country. You can also include a QR code on your invitations that guests can scan to be taken directly to your wedding website.

If you are having additional events, such as a welcome party or farewell brunch, it is a good idea to include an insert in the invitation or send something separately. You can also ask guests to RSVP to these events when they RSVP for the wedding.

Finally, if you have guests who are not tech-savvy, you may want to provide a handful of paper RSVPs or help them to respond online.

Dress code

Including a dress code on your wedding invitation is optional. However, it can be helpful to give your guests an idea of what to wear. Here are some examples of dress codes you can include, ranging from formal to casual:

White Tie

White tie is the most formal wedding attire. Men are required to wear a tuxedo with tails, a formal white shirt, a vest, a bow tie, white or grey gloves, and formal footwear such as derby shoes or oxfords. Women should wear a formal, floor-length evening gown with jewellery, heels, and an elegant clutch.

Black Tie

Black tie usually indicates a formal, evening event. Men should wear tuxedos, preferably with a black bow tie and black vest or cummerbund, and patent leather shoes. For summer weddings, a white dinner jacket with black tuxedo trousers is also acceptable. Women should wear a floor-length gown in sumptuous fabrics like silk and organza, although a sophisticated cocktail dress or an elegant pantsuit is also acceptable.

Formal or Black-Tie Optional

This dress code is slightly less formal than black tie. Men can wear a tuxedo or a formal dark suit with a white shirt and a conservative tie. Women can wear a floor-length gown, a fancy cocktail dress, or a dressy pantsuit.

Cocktail Attire

Cocktail attire is a balance between elegant and comfortable. Women should opt for a tea-length, knee-length, or midi dress, while men are required to wear a suit and tie, regardless of the setting.

Semi-Formal or Dressy Casual

Semi-formal or dressy casual attire is a step down from cocktail attire. Women can wear below-the-knee dresses, slip dresses, a dressy skirt and top, or an elegant pantsuit with heels, wedges, or formal flats. Men should opt for a dress shirt and slacks, with the option to wear a tie. For evening events, darker, more formal colours are recommended, while light colours and airy fabrics are best for daytime affairs.

Casual

Casual attire usually indicates that the wedding is being held outdoors or on the beach. Women can wear a summer sundress or a floral patterned mini-dress with wedges or dressy sandals. Men should wear dress pants or khakis paired with a collared shirt and the option of a tie or sports jacket. Jeans, shorts, tank tops, t-shirts, flip-flops, and sneakers are not appropriate unless otherwise specified.

Additional events

If your wedding will span a whole weekend, with multiple events such as welcome drinks, an after-party, or a day-after brunch, it's a good idea to include a full itinerary for guests so they know what to expect and pack for. This can be included on an insert card that matches your wedding theme.

• Rehearsal dinner details: If you have a special rehearsal dinner planned, you can include the when and where on an insert card inside the invitation.
• Weekend schedule: If you're planning a special game of bridal bingo or other activities during the wedding weekend, you can include a simple and elegant overview on an insert card, with more detailed information provided via email.
• Bridal shower: If you're having a bridal shower, you can include information about it on an insert card. This will let guests know the date, time, and location, as well as any other relevant details.
• Bachelorette/bachelor party: If you're having a bachelorette or bachelor party, you can include a separate card with information about it. This is especially useful if you want to invite a wider group of people who may not be invited to the wedding itself.
• Post-wedding brunch: If you're planning a post-wedding brunch, you can include the details on an insert card. This will let guests know they're invited and provide them with the necessary information.

Remember, the key is to provide your guests with as much information as possible so they can plan their weekend accordingly. This will also help reduce the number of questions you receive in the lead-up to your big day!

Gift preferences

Traditionally, wedding gifts were given to the newlyweds to help them start their new life together. Nowadays, many couples live together before marriage and may already have the household items they need. If you are one of these couples, you may prefer to ask for money instead of physical gifts. This is perfectly acceptable, but it's important to communicate your preference in the best way possible.

One option is to include a separate gift card or gift message as part of your information card. You can also ask your family members and close friends to spread the word. Another option is to provide details of your gift registry or honeymoon registry, if you have one. This can be considered tacky or rude, so it's best to include this information on a separate card or insert.

If you are asking for money, it's a good idea to let guests know what you'll be using it for. For example, you might be saving for a new house, making home improvements, or planning a honeymoon. This helps your guests feel more connected to your plans. You can include this information on your wedding website or on a separate card included with the invitation.

If you do wish to receive physical gifts, you can include details of your gift registry or provide suggestions for specific items you would like. This will make it easier for your guests and will ensure you receive gifts that you actually want or need.

Remember to be gracious and appreciative of any gifts you receive, whether they are physical presents or monetary contributions. Be sure to send thank-you notes to all your guests for their attendance and generosity.

Frequently asked questions