Destination Wedding Invites: What To Include And Why

Planning a wedding is an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it's abroad. There are many factors to consider when creating your wedding invitations, from the tone and style to the amount of information to include. The invitations are the guests' first glimpse of your special day, so it's important to get them just right. This article will explore what to include in your invitations to ensure your guests have all the details they need for your destination wedding.

Names of the couple and hosts

The names of the couple and hosts are an essential component of destination wedding invitations. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft this section effectively:

Names of the Couple

The names of the couple taking centre stage should be included, preferably in larger text or a fancy typeface to make them stand out. For different-sex couples, the bride's name typically goes first, followed by the groom's name. However, for same-sex couples, you can list the names alphabetically by last name or based on what looks best with the invitation design. If the bride's parents' names are listed at the top, the bride's name can be just her first and middle name, without the last name.

Names of the Hosts

The opening line of the invitation typically mentions the hosts of the event. This is usually the person or people paying for the wedding. Traditionally, this was the bride's parents, but nowadays, it could be either set of parents, both sets, or the couple themselves. Here are some examples of how to word the host line for different scenarios:

• One Set of Married Parents Hosting: Include the parents' full names, with middle names for a very formal wedding. If they have different last names, use "and" to join them. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Timothy Williams" (very formal) or "Christopher and Sarah Williams" (less formal).
• One Set of Divorced Parents Hosting: Include the mother's name first, followed by the father's name, each on a separate line, without using "and" to connect them.
• Both Sets of Parents Hosting: For different-sex couples, list the bride's parents' names first, followed by the groom's parents' names. For same-sex couples, list the names according to preference or what looks best with the design. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Wong and Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hollis" (formal) or "Aaron and Alisha Wong together with Adam and Beatrice Hollis" (less formal).
• Couple Hosting with Their Families: When the couple and both their families are contributing, you can use a line such as "Together with their families" or "Together with our families."
• Couple Hosting: If the couple is hosting themselves, you can omit the host line or start with a warm introduction like "Together with full hearts" or "With hearts full of love and joy."

Remember, the key is to keep the wording concise, clear, and special, reflecting the spirit of your destination wedding and providing essential details for your guests.

Date, time and location

When it comes to the date, time, and location of your wedding, there are a few key things to consider when writing your invitations. Firstly, it is important to send your invitations early to give your guests plenty of time to plan their attendance, especially if they need to book time off work and/or organise travel and accommodation.

The date and time of your wedding should be written out in full using traditional wedding invitation wording, for example:

> Saturday, the fifteenth of September, two thousand twenty-one, at half after four in the afternoon.

However, if you are opting for a more modern or informal style, it is also acceptable to use numerical figures, for example:

> Saturday, 15th September 2021, 4:30 pm.

Be sure to choose a legible font to avoid any confusion.

The location of your wedding should include the name and full street address of your venue, including the city, state, and zip code. If your wedding is taking place abroad, be sure to include the country as well. For example:

> The Palm Tree Hotel, Coconut Avenue, Sunshine Bay, Florida, 33333, USA.

If your ceremony and reception are at the same venue, you can simply add "Reception to follow" or "Dinner and dancing to follow" at the bottom of the invitation. If the reception is at a different location, include the full address on a separate details card tucked into the invitation.

It is also worth noting that it is common to include an RSVP date on your invitation, usually around three to four weeks before the wedding. This will give you enough time to confirm numbers with your caterer and finalise your seating plan.

Dress code and theme

The dress code and theme of your wedding are important elements to convey on your invitations, as they help guests know what to expect and how to prepare. Here are some tips and suggestions for including dress code and theme information in your abroad wedding invitations:

Be Clear and Descriptive

Provide clear and descriptive information about the dress code and theme of your wedding. This will help your guests immensely as they plan their attendance and packing. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, let guests know so they can plan for a more casual, beach-appropriate attire. Conversely, if you're having a formal wedding in a historic castle, guests will need to prepare more formal attire.

Match the Invitation Design to the Theme

You can also match the design of your invitations to the theme of your wedding. For instance, if you're tying the knot in a French Chateau, consider a classical, opulent invitation design. Or, if it's a beach wedding, you might opt for a seaside-themed invitation. This approach subtly hints at the wedding's theme and dress code, creating a cohesive experience for your guests.

Include Visual Elements

Consider incorporating visual elements, such as illustrations or images, that capture the essence of your wedding destination and theme. For example, palm trees or snow-capped mountains can transport your guests to the location before they even arrive. The overall design, including visuals and font choice, can elegantly convey the formality and style of your event.

Provide Practical Details

While creativity is essential, don't forget the practical details. If there are specific requirements or recommendations for attire, be sure to include them. For example, if your wedding is black-tie, this detail must be included in the invitation. You can also suggest attire for different parts of the day, such as a pool party or a boat trip, so guests know what to pack.

Use Separate Inserts or a Wedding Website for More Details

If there's too much information to include on the main invitation, consider using separate inserts or creating a wedding website. These additional resources can provide travel tips, local attractions, and a detailed itinerary, ensuring your guests have all the information they need without cluttering the design of your official invite.

Remember, the dress code and theme details are essential for your guests' preparation and can also build excitement for your special day.

Travel and accommodation details

When it comes to planning a wedding abroad, it is important to give your guests plenty of notice. This will allow them to plan their attendance, book accommodation early, and get the best deals on flights. Here are some ideas of what to include on your invitation regarding travel and accommodation details:

Travel Information:

• Nearest airport: Let your guests know which airport is closest to the wedding venue and how far away it is. This will help them plan their travel arrangements.
• Travel tips: Include a separate insert with travel tips and local attractions to make it easier for your guests to navigate their trip.
• Transport options: If there are multiple transport options to get to the venue from the airport, outline these for your guests. For example, will there be a shuttle service provided, or should guests take a taxi?
• Travel agent details: If you are working with a travel agent, include their contact information so that your guests can reach out with any questions or concerns.
• Group travel discounts: If you know of any group travel discounts available, be sure to mention this. This could include flight discounts for a certain number of people.

Accommodation Information:

• Accommodation options: Provide a list of recommended hotels or resorts nearby, along with their contact information and a brief description. You could also include a range of options to cater to different budgets.
• Room reservations: If you have reserved a block of rooms at a particular hotel for your guests, include this information, along with any reservation codes they will need to access the room block.
• Length of stay: Let your guests know how long the celebration will be, so they can plan their stay accordingly. For example, will it be a 2-3 night event?
• Early booking encouragement: Encourage your guests to book their accommodation as early as possible to ensure they get their preferred option.
• Local accommodation guidelines: If there are any unique customs or guidelines related to accommodation in the area, be sure to inform your guests. For example, if it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home, or if there are any restrictions on alcohol consumption.

RSVP deadline and contact details

It is important to set an RSVP deadline for your wedding invitation. This will help you finalise numbers for table plans and catering. It is recommended to set the deadline for two to four weeks before the wedding date. This will give you enough time to provide your caterer with a final headcount, which is usually needed about a week before the wedding. Knowing the number of attendees will also allow you to finalise your seating chart.

When setting the RSVP deadline, keep in mind that some guests may need more time to plan their attendance, especially if your wedding is abroad. Sending out invitations early will give your guests more time to respond and make travel arrangements. It is recommended to send out invitations three months to eight months before the wedding date, especially if you have not sent out a "save the date" card.

For the RSVP contact details, you can provide multiple options for your guests to respond. Here are some ideas:

• Include an RSVP card with your invitation suite. The card can have checkboxes for accepting or declining the invitation and a line for guests to write their names. You can also include additional information such as meal choices and a song request line.
• Provide a separate insert or card with travel tips, local attractions, and itinerary details. This card can also include the RSVP contact information, such as an email address or phone number.
• Set up a wedding website where guests can RSVP and find more detailed information about the wedding, such as accommodation options, travel tips, and the full itinerary.
• Include your travel agent's contact information on the invitation so guests can reach out to them directly for any travel-related queries.
• "We are looking forward to celebrating with you. The courtesy of a reply is requested by [date]."
• "Yes, I am packed and ready to celebrate in person!"
• "No, I will be there in spirit and will forever regret this decision."
• "Kindly RSVP by [date]."
• "Yes! Save us ___ beach chairs."
• "Sorry! We will be toasting from a distance."

Frequently asked questions