Wedding invitations set the scene for the theme of your big day. Here are a few tips to get you started.
How much notice?
Save the dates usually go out four to six months before to the wedding. If you have international or interstate guests or you are having an away wedding - more time is better. Send invitations 8 to 10 weeks beforehand with an R.S.V.P. request of two to three weeks prior to your big day so you can get a final head count.
What information should be included?
Wedding invitations should include the full names of the couple marrying and those of the hosts (if they’re different), the place and time, and an RSVP if you do not have an RSVP card.
"No children" isn’t included on the invite; it's implied by the names on the envelope. Nor should you list registry information on the invitation—include a separate registry card or you can provide it on your website.
Be as clear as possible about the dress code. While you may know what 'dressy casual' means to you, it may leave your guests wondering. Phrases such as 'cocktail attire,' 'no jackets necessary,' or 'black tie' are universal and doesn't leave it open to interpretation.
Do not include your website on the actual invitation. An 'information' card included in the invitation envelope is a great place to put additional information, especially for destination weddings. For eg: if the majority of your guests are driving in from out of town, include directions on this card. The kind gesture will make them feel taken care of, thought of, and stress-free while getting to your wedding.
Guest names
How you address the envelopes for your invitations tells your guests exactly who is invited. If you're inviting a couple, be sure to use both of their names on the envelope. A single friend with a plus one? Put their name with 'and Guest' so they know they're not flying solo. For a family with children who are all invited, you can either use 'The Louis Family' or name everyone individually, with the parents' names on the first line ('Mr. and Mrs. Gene and Carla Louis') and the children's names on the line below ('Thomas, Adam and Mona').
How you address the envelopes for your invitations tells your guests exactly who is invited. If you're inviting a couple, be sure to use both of their names on the envelope. A single friend with a plus one? Put their name with 'and Guest' so they know they're not flying solo. For a family with children who are all invited, you can either use 'The Louis Family' or name everyone individually, with the parents' names on the first line ('Mr. and Mrs. Gene and Carla Louis') and the children's names on the line below ('Thomas, Adam and Mona').
How to address the bride and groom's families
While traditionally the bride's parents are listed as the hosts of the wedding, these days a lot of brides and grooms are hosting their own wedding and/or the groom's family is co-hosting. Keep all of this in mind when selecting the wording for your invitation, a very popular and all-inclusive option is "Together with their families"
Thank you notes
Thank-you notes should be treated with a sense of urgency. Send them within two weeks of receiving the present to express your true appreciation.
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