Wedding invitations are traditionally sent via mail, but the pandemic has made digital invites an appealing and less stressful option. Digital invites are also more eco-friendly and convenient, especially if you have guests who are less tech-savvy, such as grandparents. When sending digital wedding invitations, it is important to address each guest by name and send the invitation individually. This makes it clear who is invited and facilitates RSVP management. It is also a good idea to follow up, as some guests may forget to respond.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Addressing the invitation | If the couple lives at the same address, the invitation should be addressed to both partners with their names listed in alphabetical order or with the gentleman's name first. If they live at different addresses, each person should receive a separate invitation. |
Sending the invitation | It is preferable to send printed invitations, but email invitations are also acceptable, especially for less formal weddings or if the couple is environmentally conscious. If sending email invitations, create a joint account with a wedding monogram and address each guest by name. |
Invitation format | The invitation can be attached as an image, pasted into the email text, or embedded as clickable buttons. |
Subject line | Keep the subject line short and include the couple's names and the event. Avoid using unique characters. |
Email text | The email text should be short, including the couple's names, the event, date, location, and an RSVP option. |
Follow-up | Follow up with a text or call to confirm receipt of the email invitation. |
What You'll Learn
Email wedding invitations are acceptable in rushed circumstances
Email wedding invitations are generally considered inappropriate. The physical invitation is a key part of the wedding experience, setting the tone for the ceremony and reception, acting as a keepsake, and helping to build anticipation for guests. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and rushed circumstances are one of them.
If you find yourself in a rushed situation, such as deciding at the last minute to get married before moving overseas, then emailing your wedding invitations is likely to be the best option. In such cases, it may be the only alternative to inviting people over the phone.
Even in rushed circumstances, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure that your guests have enough time to RSVP and make any necessary travel plans. For a non-destination wedding, it is generally recommended to send invitations at least eight weeks in advance. For destination weddings, 12 weeks is preferable. Secondly, consider the tone and formality of your wedding. Email invitations are more suitable for informal weddings. Lastly, be mindful of your guests' preferences and comfort with technology. Some guests may prefer a physical invitation, and for older guests, a phone call may be a better option.
In conclusion, while email wedding invitations are generally not recommended, they can be acceptable in rushed circumstances. The key is to balance practicality with the importance of maintaining the special experience of a wedding invitation.
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Sending a printed copy of the invitation is a good alternative for less tech-savvy guests
When it comes to wedding invitations, there are many options to consider. Sending a printed copy of the invitation is a good alternative for less tech-savvy guests or those who may not check their emails regularly. This option ensures that your guests receive the invitation and gives your wedding a more personal touch.
There are many online printing services that offer high-quality, affordable printing options for wedding invitations. These services allow you to customise your invitations with different paper types, finishes, and designs to match your wedding theme. You can also include RSVP cards, envelopes, and other stationery items in the same design.
Some popular online printing services include Prints of Love, Vistaprint, Zazzle, and Overnight Prints. These companies offer a range of paper sizes, orientations, and customisation options to create elegant and personalised invitations. Many of these services also have eco-friendly initiatives, using recycled paper and planting trees for every order placed.
If you're on a tight budget, you can also consider printing your invitations at home. This option may be more time-consuming and require more effort, but it can be a cost-effective solution. You can design your invitations using online tools such as Canva, which also offers printing services, or create them from scratch.
By sending printed invitations, you can ensure that all your guests, regardless of their technological proficiency, receive your wedding invitation. It adds a personal and elegant touch to your special day and allows your guests to physically connect with your celebration of love.
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Include a map and directions for out-of-town guests
When sending out email wedding invitations, it's a good idea to include a map and directions for out-of-town guests. This can be extremely helpful for guests who are unfamiliar with the area and may be travelling from far away. Here are some tips on how to provide clear and useful directions:
Provide a Detailed Map
You can include a digital map or a link to an online map in your email invitation. Make sure the map is easy to read and includes clear markers for important landmarks, roads, and intersections. You can use tools like Google Maps to create and share customised maps and directions.
Give Written Directions
Along with the map, provide written step-by-step directions from various starting points, such as the airport, the highway, or a nearby town. Include distances, drive times, and specific turns. For example, "The venue is 15 miles from the airport. Take the highway for 10 minutes, then exit onto Main Street. Turn right at the old post office with the big metal dome, and the venue will be on your left after 5 minutes."
Specify Left and Right Turns
Always specify whether turns and landmarks are on the left or right side of the road. This may seem obvious, but it's easy for guests to get confused, especially if they are navigating in an unfamiliar area.
Include Important Landmarks
In addition to providing distances and time estimates, point out notable landmarks along the way, such as historic buildings, monuments, churches, large businesses, or geographical features. For example, "You'll pass a McDonald's and Wendy's on your right, then take the next left after the big red barn."
Consider Different Transportation Methods
Keep in mind that not all guests will be driving, so provide directions for other modes of transportation as well. This could include public transit, walking, cycling, or ride-sharing options. You can use tools like Google Maps to get directions for different transportation methods.
Test the Directions
Before sending out the directions, test them yourself or with someone else to make sure they are accurate and easy to follow. This will help you identify any confusing parts of the route and make any necessary adjustments.
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Avoid sending group emails
Sending group emails for wedding invitations is not advised. The more formal the communication, the less appropriate it is to send an email. If you are going to email, make sure each email begins with an individual salutation to the intended recipient.
It is preferable to send each guest a printed invitation unless there are highly unusual circumstances. For example, if your fiancé has been posted overseas and you have decided to marry before they leave.
If you are sending "save the date" notices, it is acceptable to send an informal email to friends and relatives. However, it is not the time for a group email.
When it comes to wedding invitation replies, it is acceptable to give your guests the option of replying by email. Add a printed sentence at the bottom of your printed response card, such as "You may also reply to: [email protected]." This is especially appropriate for last-minute, informal weddings, or if you are in regular email contact with all of your invited guests.
Remember, emails are not private. You should never put anything in an email that you are not willing to have the whole world read.
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Include a sentence at the bottom of the email for guests to RSVP
When it comes to wedding invitations, it is generally considered preferable to send each guest a printed invitation. However, in certain circumstances, such as a last-minute wedding or an informal affair, email invitations can be an acceptable alternative. If you do choose to send email invitations, here are some tips for including a sentence at the bottom for guests to RSVP:
- Keep it simple: A straightforward approach is to add a sentence at the bottom of your email invitation, such as "Please RSVP by [date]." You can also include the RSVP acronym: "Répondez s'il vous plaît," which is the French translation of "please reply."
- Provide clear instructions: Specify how you would like guests to RSVP. For example, you can include your phone number and ask them to call and confirm their attendance. Alternatively, provide a link to your wedding website where they can RSVP digitally.
- Set a deadline: It is essential to set an RSVP deadline, typically around four weeks before the wedding date. This allows enough time for you and your vendors to finalise the details. Make sure to prominently display the deadline in your email, using bold or italic formatting to ensure it doesn't go unnoticed.
- Offer response options: Provide guests with options to respond, such as "Accepts with pleasure" and "Declines with regret" for a more formal wedding, or something more casual like "Yes! Can't wait to celebrate with you" and "Sorry, can't make it, but I'll be there in spirit!"
- Explain the importance: Let your guests know why their response is crucial. For example, "Your RSVP is essential to ensure we have enough delicious food and drinks for everyone. Please send your response by [date]."
- Provide contact information: Double-check that your contact information is correct and up to date. Include your phone number, email address, or any other relevant details to make it easy for guests to reach out with their responses.
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Frequently asked questions
Emailing a wedding invitation is generally not appropriate, as the invitation sets the tone for the ceremony and reception. Printed invitations are preferable as they can be kept as mementos and displayed on refrigerators or mantels. However, in rare cases, such as last-minute weddings or overseas postings, emailing invitations may be acceptable.
When sending email wedding invitations, address each guest by name and send individual emails. This ensures clarity on who is invited and simplifies RSVP management. For example, "Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith",.
The email message should be concise, as all wedding details are typically included in the invitation image. The invitation image should contain essential information such as the date, time, and location of the wedding ceremony. The tone of the email text can match the formality of the invitation.