The wedding invitation card design reflects the style and theme of your most special day. The information on your wedding invitation is the guest’s first look into your unique wedding celebrations. Thus, categorization, wording and information are very important in guiding their expectations for your big day.
Crafting the invitation doesn’t have to be complicated. Although today’s couples are not bound by traditional norms, some rules can serve you well in creating your wedding invitations.
Here are some tips on wedding invitation etiquette:
Wedding Invitation Wording
The invitation – While the traditional invitation wording is not a must for today’s couples, a few tips for all wedding invitations – be it casual or traditional – is essential to properly invite and inform your guests and form that first impression of your wedding.
Names on Wedding Invitations
- Bride and groom’s names
The bride and groom’s names are included in the wedding invitation and are often the biggest words on the invitation.
- Host Names
The full names of the hosts, usually the couple’s parents, are listed at the top of the invitation.
- The full name of your guest
Spell out the full names of your guests, and include the proper titles when addressing your invitations.
- Other potential guests that they may bring
Let your guests know whether they can bring along their children, or a date. When inviting partners, try to find out their name. Try to avoid using the words ‘and guest’ after a guest’s name if possible.
Information on a Wedding Invitation
- Date and venue
Include here the date of the wedding, the time and venues for the ceremony and reception or dinner. Give the full address details and adding a small map would be incredibly helpful. If it’s a formal wedding, the date and year should be completely spelled out. If it’s a more casual affair, it is acceptable to use abbreviations and numbers.
- The reception
Simply state “Reception to follow” at the bottom of the invitation if the ceremony and reception will be held at the same venue. Include the reception location if it’s a different location from the ceremony. This may also be placed as a separate insert.
- RSVP
Ask your guests to RSVP their attendance by a certain date, and include your contact details, which can be an email address or a phone number so you can plan for your wedding seating plans in advance.
- Dress Code
If a specific attire is desired, spell it out in small print at the bottom of invitations so that guests arrive appropriately dressed.
Tip: Don’t clutter your invitation with too many words! Ensure that your layout presents the information in a succinct manner and expand to a second card if necessary.
E-invite
In a more modern twist, couples can also choose the e-invite wedding invitation instead of the traditional letter and mail style for a more eco-friendly and fuss-free option. The same rules apply for the e-invite as they do for the letter and mail style. Aesthetics, wording and information still need to be properly categorised in the e-invite.
Couples can style this invite in more creative ways as well! Online graphic design softwares such as Canva and Illustrator can make your invitation appear livelier and more animated. E-invites pushes past the paper boundaries of the traditional wedding invitation. Couples can put as much information as desired into the e-invite without the constraints of space. Another creative option can be a short video featuring the wedding couple, addressing the guest and quite literally inviting them, to their wedding in person.
Sending Out the Invitations
Ideally, you should send out invitations 3 months before your wedding date. Earlier than that if it’s a destination wedding. This should give guests enough time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements if needed. For closest friends and family, deliver your invitations to them personally!
Responding to the Wedding Invite
Invited to a wedding? Even if you can’t make it, RSVP once you receive the wedding invitation. Call the couple directly and tell them you won’t be able to attend. Remember to express your congratulations! For a formal invitation, use the enclosed RSVP card.
Take note of the dress code. See whether the invitation is extended to a plus one; otherwise do not bring a guest. If you accept the invitation to the ceremony itself, be on time.
Whether you’ve decided on a traditional or modern theme for your special occasion, wedding invitation etiquette should not be set aside. Following traditional wedding etiquette establishes goodwill, ensures that you don’t offend people on your guest list, and builds anticipation for your wedding day.
If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind wedding invitations, let us help you locate the best invitation vendor!
