Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Back Card Content

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's important to include all the necessary information for your guests while also considering aesthetics and readability. While the front of the invitation typically includes key details such as the couple's names, date, time, and location, there may be instances where you want to utilise the back of the invitation for additional information.

Some couples choose to include their wedding website and RSVP details on the back of the invitation to provide a central place for guests to find all the information they need. This can be especially useful if you're trying to avoid the cost of enclosure cards or if you're concerned about guests misplacing separate cards. However, it's important to note that traditional etiquette guides often advise against putting information on the back of the invitation.

Ultimately, the decision of what to include on the back of your wedding invitation depends on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your event. If you're unsure, you can consider other options like including a separate RSVP card or providing additional details on your wedding website.

RSVP details

RSVP cards are one of the most important elements of a wedding invitation suite. They allow your guests to confirm their attendance and are essential for finalising your headcount with your venue and caterer.

The RSVP card should include a deadline for guests to respond by, usually three to four weeks before the wedding date. This gives you enough time to follow up with any guests who haven't responded and finalise your seating chart. The card should also include a place for guests to write their names and, if you're offering a plated dinner, their entrée preference.

If you're collecting RSVPs by post, include a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for your guests' convenience. Number the names on your guest list and write the corresponding number on the back of each RSVP card. This way, you can easily look up responses if someone forgets to include their name or their handwriting is difficult to read.

If you're offering meal choices, put checkboxes on the response cards for guests to indicate their preference. You can also include additional information such as song requests or a note about dietary requirements.

For older guests or those who may not be comfortable with technology, a physical RSVP card is standard. However, you can also offer an online RSVP option through your wedding website.

Online RSVPs

If you're offering online RSVPs, include the wedding website address on the invitation or on a separate card. This is also where guests can find additional information such as accommodation, directions, and the dress code.

Your wedding website is an incredibly helpful resource for your guests, so be sure to include it in your invitation suite. It's the perfect place to include important details like accommodation, directions, registry information, and more.

Final Thoughts

Remember to keep your wording consistent between the invitation and RSVP card. For example, "the favour of a reply" matches the invitation wording "the honour of your presence." For less formal invitations, such as "request the pleasure of your company," the RSVP wording could be "Kindly reply by" or "Kindly respond by."

Website address

The wedding website address is an important addition to your wedding invitation suite. It is a helpful resource for your guests, providing them with easy access to all the important details about your wedding, from accommodation and travel information to your gift registry.

While it is not recommended to include your wedding website URL on the main invitation card, you can include it on a separate reception or information card within the invitation suite. This is also where you can include other details such as the dress code, directions to the venue, and any other relevant information for your guests.

If you are concerned about the cost of additional enclosure cards, you could consider adding the website address on the back of the invitation. While traditional etiquette guides advise against this, some people think it is perfectly acceptable, especially for less formal weddings. However, be aware that some guests may still miss this information, even if it is on the back of the invitation.

To ensure your guests don't miss any important details, it is a good idea to include the website address on both your save-the-date cards and your wedding invitations.

Dress code

The dress code is an important element of a wedding invitation, providing guests with essential guidance on what to wear. While it is optional to include it on the invitation itself, doing so can be helpful, especially for guests who may not be familiar with wedding attire expectations. Here are some tips and suggestions for including the dress code on your wedding invitations:

• Level of Formality: The dress code you choose should align with the formality of your wedding. Common dress codes include "Casual Attire," "Dressy Casual Attire," "Semi-Formal Attire," "Black-Tie Optional," "Black Tie," and "White Tie." For example, if you're having a beach wedding, you might want to indicate "Beach Casual," suggesting that guests wear long- or short-sleeve shirts with pants or shorts, sundresses, and sandals.
• Consistency with Invitation Design: Consider the style and formality of your wedding invitations when determining the dress code wording. If you've chosen a simpler, more casual invitation design, guests will likely anticipate a more relaxed dress code. On the other hand, a formal invitation suite may indicate a black-tie or semi-formal event.
• Specific Attire Details: Depending on the theme or setting of your wedding, you may want to provide specific attire suggestions. For example, if you're having a rustic outdoor wedding, you might suggest that guests wear dress boots or shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• Seasonal Considerations: Take into account the time of year and the expected weather conditions when selecting the dress code. For a summer wedding, you might suggest lightweight fabrics and breathable outfits, while a winter wedding could call for warmer attire.
• Cultural or Thematic Elements: If your wedding has a specific cultural or thematic element, be sure to convey this in the dress code. For instance, if you're having a vintage-themed wedding, you might encourage guests to dress in styles reminiscent of a particular era.
• Online Details: If you prefer not to include the dress code on the invitation itself, you can always direct guests to your wedding website for more details. This approach can be especially useful if you have additional information or suggestions that won't fit on the invitation.

Remember, the dress code you choose should reflect the overall tone and style of your wedding. It's important to provide clear guidance to your guests so they can feel confident and comfortable on your special day.

Directions

Include All the Necessary Details

Make sure to include all the information your guests will need to get to the venue, such as the full address, transport options, and parking instructions. If the ceremony and reception are in different locations, provide directions to both. You could also include information on local accommodation options, especially if you have reserved a room block for guests.

Consider Including a Map

A custom map of the local area can be a fun and useful addition to your directions card. It can show guests where the ceremony and reception are in relation to each other and to local landmarks, and can also include other important locations such as the accommodation options you've suggested.

Keep It Legible

Choose a clear and easy-to-read font for your directions card, and make sure there is enough contrast between the text and the background. You could also include a digital version of the directions on your wedding website as a backup.

Be Mindful of Formatting

If you are including your directions on an insert card, make sure it fits neatly into the envelope with the rest of your invitation suite. You may also want to consider using an inner envelope to keep everything together.

Send Invitations in Good Time

If your wedding is in a remote location or will require guests to make travel plans, send out your invitations early to give guests plenty of time to prepare.

Consider Other Options

If you don't want to include a separate directions card, you could include the directions on your wedding website or even on the back of the invitation itself, though this may not be considered traditional etiquette.

Additional events

If your wedding will span an entire weekend, with multiple events such as welcome drinks, an after-party, or a day-after brunch, it is a good idea to include a full itinerary for your guests so they know what to expect and pack for. This is also where you would mention if any wedding weekend activities are adults-only.

If you are hosting a destination wedding, it is important to establish the guest list early to get a grasp on where everyone is travelling from. Be sure to give plenty of time for planning by sending the save-the-date cards well in advance. These should include recommended online travel information that can be accessed early. It is also helpful to include additional print information for navigating foreign destinations.

If you are hosting a rehearsal dinner, a card inside the invitation is a great place to include the when and where for invited guests.

If you have a special game of bridal bingo or other wedding party activities planned, information on when and where these will be held is usually included in a separate enclosure card. These itineraries can be simple and elegant overviews, with more details provided through email.

Other Details

Be sure to include hotel recommendations with room blocks and transportation locations and times. This is also where you would mention if any wedding activities involve adults only.

Frequently asked questions