Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Directions Insertion

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's important to provide guests with all the information they need to get to your big day. While digital invitations are becoming more common, there's something special about receiving a physical invite in the mail. But what's the best way to include directions to your wedding venue?

There are a few options for including directions in your wedding invitation suite. You can add a separate direction card, providing clear and legible instructions on how to get to the venue. This is especially helpful for guests who may not be familiar with the area or don't have access to a smartphone or GPS. Alternatively, you can include a small map insert, which gives an overview of the area and highlights the ceremony and reception locations. This DIY approach adds a creative and intimate touch to your invitations.

Another option is to provide the venue address on the invitation itself and include more detailed directions on your wedding website. This ensures that guests have access to the information digitally and can easily plug it into their maps or navigation apps. Some couples also choose to include accommodation and travel recommendations on their wedding websites, making it a one-stop shop for all guest queries.

Include a map insert

Including a map insert with your wedding invitation is a great way to provide your guests with clear and concise directions to your wedding venue. Here are some tips to help you create an informative and visually appealing map insert:

Choose Your Map Style

Decide on the style of your map insert. You can create a simple map by taking a screenshot of the area around your wedding venue from Google Maps or MapQuest and adding pins to indicate the ceremony and reception locations. Alternatively, you can get more creative by using photo editing software or online tools like PowerPoint or Photoshop to trace over major roads, highways, and landmarks. This allows you to add more personality and customize the map to your liking. Play with different line thicknesses, colours, and styles to differentiate between interstates, rivers, and small roads.

Include Labels and Icons

Ensure you label the roads and highways to provide clear direction markers for your guests. You can use the "Text Box" tool in most programs to add these labels. Rotate the text to match the angles of the streets for a more professional look. Additionally, consider adding icons or graphics, such as wedding bells or a chapel, to mark the ceremony and reception locations. These visual cues will make your map more engaging and easier to follow.

Provide Close-ups and Callouts

Include close-up views of the areas around the ceremony and reception locations. You can use the "Callout" feature in PowerPoint or similar tools in other software to create shapes or bubbles that highlight these specific areas. Trace the roadways within these callouts to provide a detailed view of the surrounding roads and intersections. This will be especially helpful for guests who need directions within a smaller radius of the venues.

Print and Insert

Once you're happy with your map design, it's time to prepare it for insertion into your wedding invitations. Export your map as a high-resolution JPEG or PNG file, ensuring it is printer-friendly. Consider the size and orientation of your invitation suite when formatting your map insert to ensure it fits neatly with the other components. You can print the map on cardstock or similar sturdy paper, adding a special touch to your invitation suite.

Including a map insert with your wedding invitation not only provides practical guidance for your guests but also adds a unique and personalized element to your wedding stationery. It serves as a keepsake for your guests and a memorable part of your wedding planning journey.

Add a directions card

If you're concerned about guests finding your wedding venue, it's a good idea to include a separate directions card. This is especially helpful for guests who are less tech-savvy or who may not have access to GPS.

• Use clear and concise language: Provide step-by-step instructions from a familiar landmark or intersection. You may also want to include the full address and names of the ceremony and reception locations.
• Include a map: Consider adding a simple map to your directions card. You can create one yourself using tools like Google Maps, PowerPoint, or Photoshop, or you can use a website like WeddingMapper.com or WeddingBee.com for more ideas.
• Be mindful of the font: Choose a font that is easy to read for all of your guests.
• Provide additional information: If there is room, you can include other relevant details such as nearby accommodations, parking information, or a wedding website URL.
• Consider your timing: Send out your invitations, including the directions card, six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to make travel arrangements if needed.
• Offer a digital option: While a physical directions card is helpful, you may also want to provide a digital version on your wedding website.

Remember, the directions card is optional. Many guests will rely on GPS or online maps to find the venue, so don't stress too much about creating the perfect directions card. Focus on providing clear and accurate information, and your guests will surely appreciate it.

Put the venue address on the invite

Including the venue address on your wedding invitation is a great way to ensure your guests can easily locate your celebration. Here are some tips and suggestions for doing so:

Provide Clear and Accurate Information:

List the full address of the venue, including the name of the location, street address, and any relevant details such as floor or suite number. This ensures that your guests can find the exact location without confusion.

Consider Direction Cards:

In addition to the invitation itself, you may want to include a separate direction card. This card can provide detailed instructions on how to get to the venue, including major roads, highways, or landmarks to watch for. It can be especially helpful for guests who are unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer not to rely solely on GPS.

Map Inserts:

Including a map insert along with your invitation is a creative and visually appealing way to guide your guests. You can create a simple map using online tools like Google Maps or more intricate designs using software like Photoshop or PowerPoint. A map insert provides a clear visual representation of the venue's location and can be a lovely keepsake for your guests.

Online Maps and Websites:

In today's digital age, many couples choose to include their wedding website or online maps on their invitations. You can provide a link or QR code that directs guests to a map of the venue and its surroundings. This approach ensures that guests have access to up-to-date information and can easily navigate to your celebration.

Accommodation and Travel Information:

If you have guests travelling from out of town, consider including accommodation suggestions or travel recommendations along with the venue address. This additional information can be helpful for those who may be unfamiliar with the area and are looking for convenient places to stay.

Remember, the key is to provide clear and concise information. By including the venue address and considering additional directions or maps, you can ensure that your guests arrive at your wedding celebration without any hassle.

Link to a wedding website with directions

If you're opting for a wedding website, you can include all the details about how to get to your wedding on there and simply add the link to your wedding invites. This is a great option if you want to provide detailed directions without cluttering your invite with lots of text, or if you're concerned about the environmental impact of printing lots of paper.

• Make sure your wedding website is easy to navigate and mobile-friendly, so guests can access the information they need on the go.
• Include a clear and concise URL on your invitation. You can use a URL shortener to create a custom link that's easy for guests to remember and type into their browsers.
• If you have a long or complicated URL, consider creating a QR code that guests can scan with their smartphones to access the website.
• In addition to the link, include the address of the venue(s) on the invitation so guests have a sense of the location.
• Provide detailed directions on your website, including any relevant landmarks, road closures, or construction that guests should be aware of.
• Consider including a map or custom weekend map on your website for a more visual representation of the area.
• If your wedding has multiple events or locations, include all the relevant addresses and directions on your website, so guests have all the information they need in one place.
• Update your website regularly if any details change, and consider adding a FAQ section to address common questions about transportation and accommodations.

Provide paper directions for older guests

It's important to include paper directions for older guests, who may not be as tech-savvy as younger guests. While many people use GPS nowadays, you don't want to risk your guests getting lost or arriving late. Paper directions are a great way to ensure everyone can find the venue easily.

There are a few ways to include paper directions with your wedding invitations. One option is to include a separate card with the directions and accommodations. This can be a simple direction card with driving directions or a map, or you can get creative and design an illustrated map that complements your wedding invitations. If you have multiple locations or events, you may want to use a double-sided card to provide all the necessary information.

Another option is to include the directions on the accommodations card. This is a great choice if you have guests coming in from out of town and have worked with hotels to provide special rates. You can include the hotel information along with directions to the venue. This ensures that your guests have all the information they need in one place.

You can also include paper directions in the form of a weekend events card. This card can include an itinerary for the wedding weekend, along with transportation locations and times. It's a great way to provide guests with all the details they need to plan their trip.

Finally, don't forget to consider the design and font of your paper directions. You want to ensure that the information is easy to read for all of your guests. A clear and legible font will ensure that everyone can access the information they need.

By providing paper directions, you can ensure that all your guests, especially older guests, have the information they need to arrive at your wedding venue on time. It's a thoughtful touch that will be appreciated by your guests.

Frequently asked questions