Destination Wedding Invites: What To Include And Why

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting endeavour, but it's important to consider what information to include when sending out your invitations. This is especially true when asking guests to travel, as it's crucial to give as much notice as possible. From the date and time to travel and accommodation details, here's everything you need to include in your destination wedding invitations.

Date, time, and location

The date, time and location are essential details to include in your destination wedding invitation. This information should be presented clearly and precisely to ensure your guests can effectively plan their attendance. Here are some tips to consider when formatting this information:

Date

Provide the specific date of your wedding celebration, including the day of the week, month and year. For example, "Saturday, October 10, 2020" or "Saturday the Tenth of October, 2020". Avoid using all-numeral styles, such as "10/10/2020", to prevent any potential confusion. Sending out "Save the Date" cards 6-12 months in advance is also recommended to give your guests ample time to plan.

Time

Include the specific hour of your wedding, followed by “a.m.” or “p.m.” or use the 24-hour clock format to ensure clarity. This information is crucial to ensure your guests' timely arrival.

Location

Clearly state the country and city or town of your wedding destination. You may also want to include a map, either on the invitation or as a separate enclosure, to add a unique touch and provide additional context for your guests. Provide the exact address of your venue, making it easy for guests to locate online and find their way there. If your venue is part of a larger location, such as a beach or resort, specify the exact area within that location to guide your guests smoothly to the right spot.

In addition to the core details above, you may also want to include directions, transport options and any relevant travel tips to make it easier for your guests to navigate their journey.

Remember, while it's important to provide essential information, try not to overwhelm your guests with excessive details. You can always direct them to your wedding website or include additional enclosure cards for further information on accommodation, dress code, dietary requirements and other wedding events.

RSVP deadline and instructions

The RSVP deadline and instructions are crucial aspects of your destination wedding invitation. Here are some detailed tips to help you effectively communicate this information to your guests:

Set an Appropriate Deadline

When setting the RSVP deadline, it's important to consider the unique nature of a destination wedding. Unlike a local wedding, your guests will need more time to plan their travel arrangements. Therefore, it is recommended to set the RSVP deadline at least 12 weeks in advance of the wedding, or even earlier if possible. This will give you a better idea of the final headcount and help with planning and budgeting.

Communicate the Deadline Clearly

Ensure that the RSVP deadline is clearly stated on your wedding invitations. This will help your guests understand the importance of responding promptly. You can also include a gentle reminder about the deadline in your wedding website URL or any additional information packets you send.

Provide Multiple Response Options

Make it convenient for your guests to respond by offering multiple RSVP options. In addition to a traditional RSVP card and envelope, consider providing a digital response option, such as an email address or a link to your wedding website. This will make it easier for guests to respond, especially if they are travelling and may not have easy access to postal services.

Include Important Travel Information

Along with the RSVP details, it's helpful to include key travel information in your invitation or accompanying materials. This could include recommended transportation options, group travel discounts, and suggestions for accommodations. Providing this information will make it easier for your guests to plan their trip and make any necessary reservations.

Consider a Multi-Part Invitation

If you have a lot of information to convey, consider creating a multi-part invitation. This could include separate cards for the RSVP, travel details, accommodation options, and a detailed itinerary. By breaking down the information into manageable sections, you can make it easier for your guests to absorb and refer back to.

Emphasize the Importance of Timely Responses

Gently remind your guests about the importance of timely responses. Explain that an accurate headcount is crucial for catering purposes and any special group travel rates you may have negotiated. This will help encourage your guests to respond by the deadline and reduce the chances of last-minute surprises.

By following these tips, you can effectively communicate the RSVP deadline and instructions for your destination wedding. Remember to give your guests plenty of advance notice, provide clear and concise information, and make it as easy as possible for them to respond.

Travel and accommodation details

When it comes to destination weddings, it's important to give your guests plenty of notice, so they can plan their travel and book time off work. It's also a good idea to include travel and accommodation details in your invitations, so your guests have all the information they need in one place. Here are some suggestions for what to include:

• Transport and transfers: Provide details of transport options and transfer arrangements. This could include recommended flight companies, flight times, and local transport options.
• Accommodation options: Include information about the hotel or resort where you've reserved rooms. If you have negotiated a group discount, be sure to include this information and any relevant booking codes.
• Travel and booking deadlines: Encourage guests to book their travel and accommodation by a certain date to take advantage of any group discounts, and to ensure they can be part of the full itinerary.
• Local area information: Provide tips on places to visit, restaurants, and activities for guests to do in their free time. This can be included in the invitation or on your wedding website.
• Pre and post-wedding events: If you're planning any additional events, such as a welcome party or brunch, include these details in the invitation. This helps guests plan their time and ensures they know which dates to keep free.
• RSVP and dietary requirements: Ask guests to confirm their attendance by a certain date, and include a space for any dietary requirements, especially if the local cuisine is very different from what they are used to.

Remember, it's a good idea to include a wedding website URL on your invitations, so guests can easily access all the travel and accommodation information, as well as other useful details.

Pre- and post-wedding events

• A welcome party or reception. This could be a more informal gathering the day before the wedding, giving guests a chance to mix and mingle before the main event. Include the location, time, and dress code on a separate card in your invitation pack.
• A bucks/hens night. You could choose to hold this event before the wedding, but at the destination. Include the details in your invitation, and remember to specify whether partners are invited.
• A group activity or tour. Organise a group activity that showcases the local area, such as a boat ride or snorkelling trip. Include a few options on your wedding website and ask guests to select their preference.
• A post-wedding brunch. If your wedding is on a Saturday, you could host a recovery brunch the following day. This could be a more low-key event for guests to attend before they depart.
• Leisure time and tourism. Your guests will likely want to explore the area, so it's helpful to include some tips and recommendations for places to visit and things to do during their downtime.

When planning your pre- and post-wedding events, remember to consider the costs for your guests. While you're not expected to cover their travel expenses, it's a thoughtful gesture to waive your right to wedding gifts, acknowledging that their presence at your destination wedding is gift enough.

Dress code and dietary requirements

As your wedding is a destination event, it is important to give your guests as much information as possible to ensure they can plan their trip and make the necessary arrangements.

The dress code is an important detail to include in your invitations. You may want to suggest attire that is appropriate for the location, such as "beach wedding" so that guests can plan accordingly and avoid a "stiletto on the beach fiasco". You could also suggest attire that fits with the theme of your wedding, for example, "tropical and fun" or "romantic and calligraphy-inspired".

If there are any cultural norms or etiquette that your guests should be aware of, be sure to include these in the invitation. For example, if your wedding is taking place in a religious setting, guests may need to cover their arms and legs, or wear a headscarf.

It is also a good idea to include dietary requirements on your invitations, especially if the local cuisine is foreign to most guests. You could include a line such as, "Please let us know of any dietary requirements when you RSVP so we can ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy."

If you are including a wedding website URL on your invitations, you could direct guests there for more information on the dress code and dietary requirements. This can be a great way to provide additional details without overwhelming your guests with information on the invitation itself.

Frequently asked questions