Invitation Suite Components: Wedding Edition

A wedding invitation suite is a set of matching cards with all the necessary information that guests need to know about the wedding. The suite typically includes the invitation itself, an RSVP or response card, a reception card, a direction card, a transportation card, an attire card, a wedding website card, and an accommodations card. The invitation should include the names of the couple, the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception, and the RSVP information. Other details such as the dress code, wedding website, and accommodation options can be included on separate cards within the suite.

RSVP card

The RSVP, or 'Répondez, s'il vous plaît', card is a vital component of the wedding invitation suite. This card allows your guests to confirm their attendance at your wedding. It is a simple yet essential tool for the couple to understand their guest list and plan accordingly.

The RSVP card should be designed to match the style and theme of the wedding invitations and other stationery. This creates a cohesive and elegant look for your wedding stationery suite. The card can be a simple postcard-style reply card or a more elaborate design with a return envelope. Some couples choose to include a stamped return envelope to encourage guests to respond promptly.

When creating the RSVP card, it is important to include key details to gather the necessary information from your guests. This includes a line for the guest's name or names, allowing them to indicate their attendance. A simple "Accepts with pleasure" or "Declines with regret" option is traditional, with space for the guest's name to be filled in. It is also common to include a deadline for the RSVP, usually around one month before the wedding date, to help with finalising numbers for catering and other arrangements.

Additionally, the RSVP card can be used to gather dietary restrictions or meal preferences. This is especially useful for ensuring that all guests' needs are catered for on the day. It is also an opportunity to ask guests about any special requirements they may have, such as accessibility needs or allergies. Including a small section for any additional comments or requests can be a thoughtful touch.

Finally, the RSVP card should provide clear instructions on how and where to return the card. Including a return address and a contact name, such as the wedding planner or a member of the bridal party, ensures the responses are received and organised efficiently. Some couples may also choose to include an email or phone number as an alternative method of response, especially if they prefer a more eco-friendly approach to stationery.

Reception card

The reception card is an essential component of your wedding invitation suite. This card provides guests with the details they need to join you for the wedding reception celebration. It is particularly important if your ceremony and reception are held at different venues or have a significant time gap between them. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you craft the perfect reception card:

Information to Include:

• Event Details: Clearly state that the card pertains to the wedding reception. You can use a simple phrase such as "Reception to Follow" or "Join us for a Reception."
• Date and Time: Specify the date and time of the reception. If your ceremony and reception occur at the same location, you may opt to include only the time for the reception, assuming guests will already have the date from the main invitation.
• Venue Information: Provide the complete name and address of the reception venue. If the venue is well-known or easily identifiable, you may use a shorter description, such as "The Garden Room at The Ritz-Carlton."
• Directions or Map: Consider including a small map or directions to the reception venue, especially if it is located in an obscure or hard-to-find area. Alternatively, you can provide a link or QR code directing guests to online maps or directions.
• Transportation Details: If you are providing transportation for guests between venues or to a specific location, be sure to include those details. For example, "Shuttle service provided from the ceremony to the reception venue."
• Dress Code: If you would like your guests to adhere to a specific dress code, you may include a brief description or refer them to the wedding website for more details.
• Meal Options: If guests were asked to make meal selections during the RSVP process, you can include a friendly reminder, such as "Please remember your meal selection: [Option 1], [Option 2], or Vegetarian."
• Accessibility Information: It is thoughtful to include a brief note about any accessibility features or accommodations provided at the reception venue, such as wheelchair accessibility or sign language interpretation.
• Parking Information: If there are specific parking instructions or limited parking options at the venue, it is helpful to inform guests in advance. You can also provide information about nearby parking lots or structures.
• RSVP Details: If you are including an RSVP card, ensure that it is consistent with the reception timing. For example, if the reception starts at 6:00 PM, the RSVP card should request guests' presence at the reception rather than the ceremony.

Formatting and Design:

• Card Size and Shape: Reception cards can be any size or shape, but they should complement the style and design of your main invitation. Standard sizes include 5" x 4" or 5.5" x 4.25".
• Font and Color: Maintain consistency with the font and color palette used in the main invitation to create a cohesive suite. You may also choose to incorporate design elements, such as borders, illustrations, or motifs, that tie into your wedding theme.
• Paper and Printing: Use the same paper stock and printing method as the main invitation for a unified look. This could be digital printing, letterpress, foil stamping, or embossing.
• Assembly and Enclosures: If your invitation suite includes multiple cards and enclosures, assemble them neatly and securely. Options include paper bands, belly bands, ribbons, or envelopes.

Remember, the reception card is an opportunity to excite and inform your guests about the celebration to come. Present the information clearly and concisely, ensuring that your guests can easily locate and reference the details of your wedding reception.

Attire card

An attire card is an important part of a wedding invitation, especially if you want to ensure your guests are dressed appropriately for your big day. Here are some tips and suggestions for creating an informative and helpful attire card for your wedding invitation suite:

Details and Instructions:

First and foremost, provide clear and detailed instructions on the dress code you would like your guests to follow. Common dress codes include formal, semi-formal, cocktail, or black-tie, but you can also choose to be more specific, such as requesting "beach formal" attire for a destination wedding or a "rustic chic" look for a barn wedding. Be sure to consider not only the style of your wedding but also the venue and potential weather conditions to help your guests dress accordingly.

Color Palette or Theme:

If you have a specific color palette or theme for your wedding, feel free to include this information on the attire card. This can help your guests coordinate their outfits with the wedding colors or theme, creating a cohesive and stylish look for your event. For example, suggest earth tones or deep jewel tones for a rustic fall wedding.

Season and Location:

Provide information about the season and location of your wedding, as this will greatly impact your guests' attire choices. For instance, advise guests to dress for warm weather if you're having an outdoor summer wedding. Conversely, a winter wedding in a chilly location might call for more formal, full-length gowns and suits. Be sure to mention if there will be any walking or outdoor activities so guests can choose practical footwear, too.

Additional Information:

Depending on the style of your wedding, you may want to include additional instructions or recommendations. For instance, inform guests of any dress requirements if you're having a religious ceremony in a place of worship. If your reception will continue late into the night, suggest that guests bring a wrap or light jacket for when the temperature drops. You could also mention any specific dress code requests, such as "festive attire" for a holiday wedding or making it "costume optional" for a themed wedding.

Example Wording:

To help convey your dress code and provide a clear picture of what guests should wear, here's an example wording:

"Attire: Formal

Please join us in formal attire as we celebrate our special day. We envision elegant evening wear, with full-length gowns for women and suits or tuxedos for men."

Remember to keep your attire card concise and direct, focusing on the key information your guests need to know to dress suitably for your wedding. By offering clear instructions and considering the unique aspects of your celebration, you'll ensure that your guests feel well-informed and confident about their attire choices.

Transportation card

A transportation card is an important part of a full wedding invitation suite, providing guests with clear and concise travel information. This card ensures guests can easily navigate to and from the wedding venue, offering peace of mind and a seamless experience.

The card should include details such as the pickup and drop-off locations for any provided transport, as well as the times these will be operating. If guests are expected to provide their own transport, clear directions to the venue from nearby towns or landmarks should be included, along with details of any available parking. To assist your guests further, you could also include information about the estimated travel time and potential traffic delays.

For weddings with multiple events in different locations, it is helpful to provide transportation details for each venue. This ensures guests can efficiently travel between, for example, the ceremony and the reception, particularly if they are held on different days.

Additionally, the transportation card can include any relevant contact information, such as phone numbers for the wedding planner, venue, or transport company. This provides guests with a quick point of reference should they encounter any travel issues or require further information.

Finally, the card can be customised to align with the theme and style of your wedding. Whether it's a formal or casual affair, the design, font, and colour scheme of the transportation card can be tailored accordingly, adding a personal touch and ensuring it seamlessly integrates with the rest of the invitation suite. Overall, a well-designed transportation card ensures your guests have the necessary travel information, helping them arrive relaxed and ready to celebrate your special day.

Accommodations card

An accommodations card is a great way to ensure your wedding guests have all the information they need for the big day, especially if they are travelling from out of town.

Hotel Recommendations

It's a good idea to recommend a few hotels that are close to the wedding venue. This will ensure your guests are close to the action and can easily get to and from the wedding festivities.

Special Wedding Rates

If you have been able to negotiate a special rate for your guests, be sure to include this information on the card. This could be a unique code for a discounted rate if you have reserved a block of rooms.

Hotel Details

Provide the name and address of the hotel(s) you are recommending, along with any booking codes or deadlines your guests need to be aware of. You could also include the hotel's phone number.

Transport Information

If you are providing a shuttle service from the hotel to the venue, be sure to include this information on the card. You could also include other transport options, such as ride-sharing details.

Map or Directions

If your wedding venue is hard to find or doesn't show up on GPS, consider including a map or directions on your accommodations card. This could be a fun, hand-drawn map or a simple text-based direction card.

Website Details

If you have a wedding website, be sure to include the URL and any passwords on the accommodations card. This will allow your guests to easily access all the information they need for the wedding.

Remember to keep the information on your accommodations card brief and to the point. You don't want to overwhelm your guests with too much information. If you have a lot of details to share, consider including a link to your wedding website, where guests can find more information.

Frequently asked questions