Junior Rasmussen
Wedding invitation suites are a major undertaking, and there's a lot to consider when it comes to their design and assembly. While the invitation itself is the main component, there are several other pieces that can be included in the envelope.
The invitation card should include the who, what, where, and when of the wedding. It is usually the largest piece in the suite and is placed at the bottom of the stack, print side up.
Other items that can be included in the envelope are:
- RSVP card and pre-addressed, stamped envelope
- Reception card (if the reception is at a different location)
- Direction card
- Weekend events card
- Accommodations card
- Belly band, ribbon, or wax seal
- Inner envelope (optional)
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main invitation card | Who, what, where, and when of the wedding |
| RSVP card | Mailed back to the host |
| Reception information | Separate card if the reception is at a different location |
| Return address | Printed on the back flap of the mailing envelope |
| Guest address | On the front of the mailing envelope |
| RSVP card envelope | Pre-addressed and stamped |
| Inner envelope (optional) | Names of everyone invited |
| Belly band or silk ribbon (optional) | To hold all the pieces together |
| Wax seal (optional) | To seal the envelope |
What You'll Learn
RSVP card and envelope
The RSVP card and envelope are essential components of a wedding invitation suite. The RSVP card allows guests to confirm their attendance and can also be used to request meal choices or RSVP to other wedding events. Standard sizes for RSVP cards are 3½˝x 4⅞˝ or 4¼˝x 5½˝.
The RSVP envelope, also known as a reply envelope, should be small and designed to fit the RSVP card with nothing else. It should be included empty, stamped, and addressed with the host's address. This makes it easier for guests to mail back their responses. Numbering the names on the guest list and writing the corresponding number on the back of the RSVP card can help to keep track of responses, especially if a guest forgets to include their name.
When assembling the wedding invitation suite, the RSVP envelope is placed printed side down on top of the other enclosure cards, with the envelope flap on the left. The RSVP card is then inserted under the envelope flap, face up, so the printed side is visible.
Including pre-stamped RSVP envelopes saves guests the trouble of finding postage and ensures a higher response rate. It is also a good idea to take an assembled invitation to the post office to get it weighed and purchase the correct amount of postage.
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Reception card
A reception card is an optional, but important, component of a wedding invitation suite. It is used when the wedding reception is held at a different location from the wedding ceremony, or if there are more details to share about the reception.
The reception card should include the location, address, and time of the reception. If the reception is before 1 pm, the first line of the card should say 'Breakfast Reception'. If the reception is after 1 pm, simply write 'Reception'. If you want to indicate that the reception includes a sit-down meal, the first line should read 'Dinner Reception'.
The reception card should be placed face up on top of the wedding invitation. If you are using multiple enclosure cards, such as direction or detail cards, map cards, or hotel accommodation cards, the reception card is placed directly on top of the wedding invitation, with the other enclosure cards placed on top of it.
If you have a wedding website, you can include the website address and password on the reception card or one of the other enclosure cards. Many couples also choose to include a QR code that guests can scan to visit the website.
The size of a reception card can vary, with common sizes being 3½˝x 4⅞˝ or 4¼˝x 5½˝.
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Directions card
A directions card is an optional but thoughtful addition to your wedding invitation suite. It is especially useful if your wedding is in a rural or alfresco location where cell service is spotty, or if you have guests without smartphones.
The directions card should include the address of the venue and clear instructions on how to get there. You could also include a custom map or a vintage map for a whimsical touch. If you have guests travelling from out of town, it is helpful to include hotel recommendations and transportation options to and from the venue.
Legibility is key when it comes to the directions card. Choose a font that is easy to read and ensure that the information is clear and concise. You may also want to include the directions on your wedding website as a backup.
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Weekend events card
A weekend events card is a great addition to your wedding invitation suite, especially if your wedding will span a few days and include multiple events. This card can include a full itinerary for your guests, so they know what to expect and pack accordingly.
Logistics and Timing:
Provide a clear timeline of events, including dates, times, and locations. For example, "Welcome Drinks: Friday, 6-8 pm at the Hotel Terrace" or "After-Party: Saturday, 9 pm onwards at the Beach Club".
Event Details:
Give a brief description of each event to help guests understand the nature and formality. For instance, "Breakfast Reception: Sunday, 10 am-1 pm at the Garden Cafe. Join us for a casual brunch to celebrate the newlyweds!"
Transportation and Accommodation:
Include transportation details and hotel recommendations, especially if you have blocked rooms for guests. For example, "Shuttle buses will be provided from the ceremony venue to the reception site, departing at 6 pm, 6:30 pm, and 7 pm."
Dress Code:
If there is a specific dress code for any of the events, be sure to mention it on the weekend events card. For instance, "Welcome Dinner: Smart Casual. After-Party: Beach Attire."
Additional Information:
You can also use this card to mention any other relevant details, such as adult-only events, themed parties, or special activities. For example, "Welcome Cocktail Party: Friday, 7-10 pm at the Rooftop Bar. Please join us for drinks and light bites as we kick off the wedding weekend! This event is adults-only."
Remember to coordinate the design and colour scheme of the weekend events card with the rest of your wedding invitation suite. You can also add personal touches, such as a custom weekend map or a wedding monogram, to make it more unique and engaging.
A well-planned and informative weekend events card will not only excite your guests about the upcoming celebrations but also help them feel prepared and ready to join in on all the fun!
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Accommodations card
An accommodations card is a great way to inform your guests about hotel options, especially if you have guests coming in from out of town. It is also a good idea to include a deadline for making reservations and any information regarding transportation to and from the hotels to the wedding venue.
The card should include the name and address of the hotel, as well as any special codes or book-by deadlines that your guests should be aware of. This will make booking their travel plans much easier.
If you are covering your guests' accommodations, it is proper etiquette to indicate this on the card. You can also include a QR code that guests can scan to visit your wedding website.
The accommodations card is usually placed face up on top of the reception card or invitation card. If you are using a belly band or ribbon to hold your invitation suite together, place the card within the stack before assembling the band or ribbon.
The size of the accommodations card can vary, but common sizes include 2" x 3.5", 3.5" x 4.75", 4.25" x 5.5", 4.5" x 6.25", and 5" x 7".
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Frequently asked questions
A wedding invitation envelope should include the guest's name(s) and address, an outer envelope, an RSVP card, and a pre-addressed, stamped envelope for the guest to send back their response.
Optional Additions:
You can include an inner envelope with the names of the invitees, a reception card, a direction card, a weekend events card, and an accommodations card.
Etiquette:
It is considered proper etiquette to use "Mr." and "Mrs." on the envelope if you are having a formal wedding. If you are having a more casual wedding, it is acceptable to forego these titles.
Weight:
Yes, depending on the number of enclosures and embellishments, your envelope may weigh more than standard postage covers. Take a fully assembled invitation suite to the post office to get it weighed and find out the correct postage.
