What to include on your Wedding Invitation
All wedding invitations should include the following:
- Who is hosting
- The request to come to the wedding
- The couple's name
- The date and time
- The location
- Reception information
- Dress code
- Separate RSVP card
What you need to know:
The host
Traditionally, the brides parent's are the hosts and are written at the top of the invitation card. However, more couples are hosting the wedding themselves or together with their families.
The reception
Typically, the reception begins promptly after the wedding ceremony at the same location. If that is the case, you can kindly state, "Reception to Follow." If the celebration is at a different location, this information can be included on your invites or on a separate details card.
The request
A request to attend lets guest know what they are being invited to and it sets the tone for your celebration.
The dress code
Including a line about dress code is optional but it can be very helpful for guests. If your wedding is black tie, you must include this on the invitation.
The couples name
The names are the most important detail and it should take center stage. This is accomplished with larger or fancier font from the rest of the invitation.
The RSVP
Most couples choose to include a separate response card for guests to fill out and return via mail. A modern alternative to RSVP cards, would be creating a wedding website where guests can RSVP digitally.
Reply by date is typically 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding.
The date and time
The date and time should be correctly and clearly written out in full, this will avoid confusion. Of course, there is room for deviation from the traditional date and time rules, more commonly used in modern invitations.
When to send
Invitations should be sent 10 to 12 weeks before the wedding. For a destination wedding, minimum 16 weeks before the celebration.
Save the Date needs to be mailed 6 to 8 months before the wedding and 9 to 12 months for a destination wedding.
The location
When providing the venue location be specific as possible by including the street address, city and state written out in full, no abbreviations. Last thing you want is for your guest to get lost or go to the wrong venue.
