Essential Inserts For A Complete Wedding Invitation

Wedding invitations are a complex affair. Beyond the invitation itself, there are a number of inserts that can be included in the envelope. These inserts are a great way to communicate vital information to your guests. The most important insert is the RSVP card and envelope. This is considered a staple of the wedding invitation and is the only piece that is absolutely required. Other inserts that are commonly included are a wedding website card, a reception card (if the reception is at a different location), a directions card, an accommodations card, and a pre- or post-wedding events card. Less common inserts include an inner envelope, envelope liners, belly bands, and a wax seal.

RSVP card and envelope

The RSVP card and envelope are essential components of a wedding invitation suite. They are a must-have for couples who want to know how many guests will be attending their wedding. Here are some tips and suggestions for including RSVP cards and envelopes in your wedding invitations:

Format and Content

RSVP cards can be formatted in a few different ways. You can include blank spaces for guests to fill in their names and the number of people attending, or you can indicate the number of seats reserved for them and ask them to confirm the number of attendees. If you want to stick to traditional postal RSVPs, be sure to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope to make it convenient for your guests. You can also include a hard deadline for responses to ensure you receive them in time for catering and seating arrangements.

Online RSVPs

If you prefer to receive RSVPs online through your wedding website, you can skip the RSVP card altogether. However, it is still a good idea to include physical RSVP cards for older guests who may not be comfortable using a computer. For smaller, intimate weddings, guests can also RSVP directly to the couple without the need for RSVP cards.

Design and Assembly

When assembling your wedding invitations, the RSVP card and envelope are typically placed towards the top of the stack, with the RSVP envelope printed side down and the flap on the left. The RSVP card itself goes under the envelope flap, face up, so the printed side is visible. If you are using belly bands or ribbons to hold your invitation suite together, make sure to place them over the stacked cards before inserting the RSVP card and envelope.

Postage and Weight

Remember to weigh your fully assembled invitation suite, including the RSVP card and envelope, to ensure you have the correct postage. The weight of the envelope and its contents may require additional postage. It is also recommended to hand-cancel the stamps at the post office instead of dropping them into a mailbox to reduce the risk of damage during mailing.

Response Management

To keep track of responses, you can number your guest list and write the corresponding number on the back of each RSVP card. This way, you can easily look up responses, especially if the handwriting is illegible or a guest forgets to include their name.

In summary, RSVP cards and envelopes are essential for managing your guest list and ensuring a smooth planning process for your wedding. They provide a convenient way for guests to confirm their attendance and help you finalise details with your caterer and seating plan.

Wedding website card

A wedding website card is an important insert to include in your wedding invitation. It serves as a digital hub for all your wedding-related information, from the dress code to the registry. It is a convenient way to provide guests with easy access to all the details of your big day.

The wedding website card is typically included as part of the "Info" or "Details" insert card. This card is the perfect place to provide the URL for your wedding website, along with any relevant passwords. By including this card, you encourage guests to refer to your website for more information or updates, especially if not all the wedding details have been finalised.

It is a good idea to create your wedding website early on in the planning process and include the URL on your save-the-date cards as well. This way, guests can start referring to it from the beginning and you can save money by not having to include as many inserts with your invitations.

The wedding website card is also a great way to provide guests with information about pre- and post-wedding events, travel options, accommodation suggestions, and any other additional details that you may not want to include on your invitation itself. It is an efficient way to communicate a lot of information without cluttering up your invitation suite.

Remember to update your wedding website regularly with any changes or additions to your wedding plans, so that guests always have the most up-to-date information.

Reception card

A reception card is an optional insert in a wedding invitation. It is only necessary if your wedding reception will be held in a different location from the wedding ceremony. In this case, you should include the address, time, and any other additional information your guests may need about your post-wedding celebration.

If your wedding reception is in the same place as the ceremony, you can skip the reception card. Instead, your main invitation should include the ceremony location and then say "reception to follow".

If you are hosting a reception before 1 pm, the first line of the reception card 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 are offering your guests transport to the reception, you can include a note on the reception card to say that a shuttle will be available and that guests shouldn't plan to drive to the venue.

Directions card

You can include written-out directions or a custom map on your directions card. If you opt for a map, you can choose to have it illustrated or designed by a graphic designer or illustrator. This adds a unique and intimate touch to your invitations. If you're having a destination wedding, you can include some of your favourite local hotspots or recommendations to give your guests ideas on where to go, what to do, and where to eat.

If you're having multiple events at different venues, you can include an itinerary or schedule on your directions card. This ensures your guests know what to expect and can plan and pack accordingly. You can also include information about transportation locations and times.

Legibility is key when it comes to directions cards, so be sure to use a font that is easy to read. It's also a good idea to include the address and directions to your venue on your wedding website as a backup.

Accommodations card

An accommodations card is a great way to let your guests know about hotel options. It is especially useful if you have guests coming in from out of town. It is also helpful if you've booked a block of rooms for your guests to stay in while they're in town.

The accommodations card should include essential information about the place, such as the name and address of the hotel, as well as any special codes or book-by deadlines that guests should be aware of.

If you want to save some money, you can skip this insert and make a page for it on your wedding website instead. However, it is considered good etiquette to include the accommodations card, especially if you're covering your guests' accommodations.

Be sure to include any information regarding transportation to and from the hotels to the wedding venue.

• Include the name and address of the hotel(s).
• Provide any special codes or booking deadlines.
• Mention if there is a room block reserved for your guests.
• Include transportation details to and from the hotel(s) to the wedding venue.
• Consider including a map or directions to the hotel(s).
• If you're covering your guests' accommodations, be sure to mention this on the card.

Frequently asked questions