Planning a wedding? One of the most important parts is sending out invitations. Invitations set the whole tone for your big day. They give guests a sneak peek of what’s to come. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything about wedding invitations in 2024. From understanding the parts to following etiquette to staying on budget, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re having an intimate gathering or a huge party, this guide will help you create awesome invitations. Let’s dive in!
Quick Resources:
- Wedding Vow Writing: Turn your thoughts, emotions, and stories into memorable wedding day vows
- Day-Of Coordination: Full-service wedding support before and during your celebration
- Hire a Bridesmaid: Jen Glantz will be your secret hired bridesmaid
- Check out Etsy for gorgeous and unique wedding invitations
TL;DR
- Learn about the main parts of a wedding invitation, like the actual invite, RSVP card, and other pieces.
- Pick a design that matches your wedding style and think about custom printing choices.
- Mail save the dates 6-8 months before the wedding and the real invitations 6-8 weeks before.
- Easily keep track of your guest list and RSVPs with online tools and good etiquette.
- Use current trends and personal touches to make your invitations stand out.
- Handle unique situations like destination weddings and kid-free celebrations with clear messages.
Components of a Wedding Invitation
The pieces of a wedding invitation are more than just paper. They’re the first look your guests get at your big day. Knowing each part will make sure you include all the important info and wow your guests. Let’s break down the must-have parts of a wedding invitation suite.
Each section has its own specific job to do:
- The wedding invitation itself tells the key details
- RSVP cards let you track who’s coming
- Extra cards give helpful info to guests
Here are some wedding invitation templates to get you started.
Main Invitation
The main invitation is the star of your wedding stationery. It has all the must-know details like:
- The couple’s names
- Wedding date and time
- Ceremony location
The design and wording of the main invite set the vibe for the whole celebration. Check out these wedding invitations for inspiration. [Basic Invite]
Design and Layout
Your main invitation’s design and layout should go with your overall wedding theme. You might pick a vintage, modern, or rustic look. Just make sure the design is pretty and makes sense.
A few popular design styles:
- Elegant florals
- Clean and simple
- Vintage charm
Wording
The words you use on your main invite matter. For fancy weddings, traditional language works well. Casual weddings can have more laid-back wording.
Formal example: “The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of…”
Casual example: “Join us to celebrate the wedding of…”
RSVP Card
The RSVP card is super important for keeping track of your guest list and meal choices. Make it simple to fill out. And include a stamped envelope to mail it back in.
RSVP literally means “répondez s’il vous plaît” which is French for “please reply”. So the RSVP card is how guests let you know if they can make it or not. And it’s how they tell you what they want to eat, if you’re offering meal options.
According to Ann’s Bridal Bargains, sending an RSVP card with its own envelope gets more responses than just an RSVP postcard.
Design and Function
The RSVP card design should go with the main invite. So everything looks put-together. And the card needs to be easy for guests to understand and fill out.
What to include:
- A spot for guests to write their names
- Checkboxes to select their RSVP (attending or not attending)
- Meal preference options
- Reply-by date
Enclosures
Enclosures are extra info cards that give guests helpful details like:
- Directions to the venue
- Suggested accommodations
- Reception info
They make sure your guests have everything they need to celebrate with you. Here are examples of common wedding invitation enclosures.
Direction Cards
Direction cards tell guests exactly how to get to your wedding spot. A small map can really help people who don’t know the area well.
What to put on them:
- Written out directions from major roads or landmarks
- Approximate travel time
- Parking info
- Public transit options
Accommodation Cards
Accommodation cards are a must for out-of-town guests. List nearby hotels and B&Bs. And include booking codes for any room blocks you set up.
Get more accommodation card tips in our blog post.
Reception Cards
If your reception is at a different place than your ceremony, you need a reception card. It should have:
- Reception venue name and address
- Start time
- Any special directions
- Other key details guests should know
Quick Resources:
- Wedding Vow Writing: Turn your thoughts, emotions, and stories into memorable wedding day vows
- Day-Of Coordination: Full-service wedding support before and during your celebration
- Hire a Bridesmaid: Jen Glantz will be your secret hired bridesmaid
- Check out Etsy for gorgeous and unique wedding invitations
Design and Customization for Wedding Invitations
Your wedding invitations show off your style and wedding vibe. Making them custom lets you add your personality to every part. Let’s look at how to pick a design and really make it yours.
Custom wedding invitations and custom wedding invitations are so popular right now.
Choosing a Design
Picking your wedding invitation design is such a fun part of planning. Look at your wedding’s overall style. Then find a design that goes with it. You might like elegant florals, simple minimalism, or old-school charm. The design should feel like your wedding day goals.
Theme Coordination
Make your invites match your wedding theme for a seamless look. Pay attention to stuff like:
- Color scheme
- Fonts
- Motifs and graphics
Everything should fit the vibe you’re going for, whether that’s black tie glam or backyard casual.
Custom Printing Options
Custom printing makes your wedding invitations feel extra special. Techniques like foil stamping and letterpress give them a fancy, luxe touch.
Custom printing is a great way to take your personalized wedding invitations to the next level.
Foil Stamping
Foil stamping adds a metallic design to your invites. It looks super classy and high-end. It’s perfect for making names or pretty details really pop.
Foil options:
- Gold
- Silver
- Rose gold
- Copper
Letterpress
Letterpress stamps your design into the paper. It makes words and pictures look raised. It adds texture and depth. Letterpress is great for traditional or vintage style weddings.
Fun letterpress ideas:
- Pressed flowers or greenery
- Monograms
- Classic fonts
On average, couples order invitations for about 75-85% of their total guest list. The rest typically can’t make it, according to Zola’s wedding stats
Personalization
Personalization makes your wedding invites 100% unique to you. From monograms to handwritten notes, little touches show off your one-of-a-kind love story.
Monograms
A custom monogram is such a pretty personal detail. Put your initials on the main invite, RSVP card, and extra pieces. It ties everything together and looks so elegant.
Monogram tips:
- Use your new shared last initial in the center
- Try a few fonts to find your favorite
- Match the monogram style to your overall design
Handwritten Notes
A handwritten note makes each guest feel so special. It shows you took the time to think of them. Even just a few words can warm their hearts.
Note ideas:
- “Can’t wait to celebrate with you!”
- “Your presence is the best present.”
- “Thanks for being part of our best day ever!”
Mailing and Timing for Wedding Invitations
Timing is everything when you’re mailing out wedding invites. You want to give guests plenty of notice so they can save the date. This section covers when to send save the dates vs. the actual invitations. Plus addressing and mailing tips.
The wedding invitations and save the dates timeline is so important to get right.
Timeline for Sending Invitations
Send your wedding invitations on time so guests can plan and RSVP. The basic rule:
- Mail save the dates 6-8 months before the wedding
- Mail invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding
Destination weddings need more notice. Send those invites out 3 months ahead, says Crane.
Save the Dates
Save the dates give guests a heads up on your wedding date and location. Send them out 6-8 months in advance. That way people can mark their calendars and request days off work.
What to include:
- Your names
- Wedding date
- City and state
- “Formal invitation to follow”
Formal Invitations
The official invitations have all the ceremony and reception details. Mail them 6-8 weeks before the big day. That gives guests time to RSVP and make plans.
Include all the key info:
- Date and time
- Venue name and address
- RSVP card and deadline
- Wedding website URL
Addressing Invitations
Properly addressing your invites is a must
Calligraphy
Calligraphy makes your envelopes look so elegant. A professional calligrapher can hand-letter each address beautifully. Your guests will be wowed before they even open the invite.
Hiring a calligrapher:
- Look at samples to find a style you like
- Book early to save your date
- Allow 2-3 weeks for the job
- Triple check spellings before they start
About 22 invitees typically decline, according to a 2021 4over survey. So it’s normal to have some nos.
Handling RSVPs
Organizing RSVPs is key for finalizing your guest count and other details. You can do mail-in reply cards, online forms, or both. Just make a system so nothing falls through the cracks.
Here are some more sample wedding invitations with RSVP card ideas.
Online RSVPs
Online RSVP tools make it so simple for guests to respond. They can fill out your form in a few clicks. And you can track responses without dealing with mail.
There are tons of great wedding websites and apps like:
- The Knot
- Zola
- Minted
- Joy
| RSVP Method | Benefits | Considerations | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital RSVPs | Convenient, easy to track, eco-friendly | Requires internet access | ||
| Traditional RSVPs | Formal, tangible keepsake | Requires postage, can get lost in mail | ||
Traditional RSVPs
Mailed RSVP cards are classic. Some couples still prefer them for a traditional feel. Always include a pre-stamped envelope so it’s easy for guests to send back.
Quick Resources:
- Wedding Vow Writing: Turn your thoughts, emotions, and stories into memorable wedding day vows
- Day-Of Coordination: Full-service wedding support before and during your celebration
- Hire a Bridesmaid: Jen Glantz will be your secret hired bridesmaid
- Check out Etsy for gorgeous and unique wedding invitations
Guest List and RSVP Management
Managing your guest list and RSVPs is a huge part of wedding planning. You need an accurate head count to handle details like seating charts, catering, and hotel blocks. Let’s dive into how to make your list and stay organized.
The wedding invitation process really starts with your guest list.
Creating the Guest List
Start your guest list ASAP. Make a first draft with must-invites like immediate family and close friends. Then trim it down to fit your budget and venue. You want everyone to be comfy.
Initial Draft
Your first try at the guest list should include:
- Immediate family (parents, siblings, grandparents)
- Wedding party and their dates
- Close extended family
- Your and your partner’s closest friends
- Essential colleagues
Finalizing the List
Now look at your budget and venue capacity. How many people can you realistically invite? Cut the list down till it fits those limits. An Excel sheet can help you organize names and addresses.
RSVP Systems
A smooth RSVP system will make your life so much easier. Online RSVPs let you automatically track responses. Traditional reply cards give a formal vibe. Pick what works for you.
Digital RSVPs
Digital is the way to go for most modern couples. Wedding websites like Zola have built-in RSVP managers. You can see your guest list, meal choices, and more all in one spot.
Traditional RSVPs
If you want that classic RSVP experience, go with mailed reply cards. Just remember to include postmarked envelopes. And give clear instructions so guests fill them out right.
Etiquette and Wording for Wedding Invitations
Using proper etiquette and wording makes your invites gracious and clear. It sets the tone for a respectful, enjoyable celebration. Here are the key points to cover.
The wedding invitation is the first glimpse guests get of your big day. And what it says really matters. Including the right info avoids confusion and hurt feelings down the line.
Wording Etiquette
Your invite wording should match your wedding vibe. A black tie bash calls for formal language. A backyard BBQ can be more casual. The style of your wedding should come across in the words you choose.
Formal Weddings
For a formal affair, stick with classic wording. Use full names, proper titles, and fancy phrasing. It sets an elegant, traditional tone.
Formal lines to try:
- “The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of…”
- “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the pleasure of your company…”
- “Black tie invited”
Casual Weddings
Casual weddings open the door for more relaxed language. You can use your first names and fun phrases. But still be clear about the key details.
Casual wording ideas:
- “John and Jane are tying the knot!”
- “Get ready to party with the new Mr. and Mrs.”
- “Join us for a laid-back celebration of love.”
Addressing Invitations
Put guest names on the envelopes properly. It shows you respect them and want them there. Using inner and outer envelopes is a traditional way to make it super clear who’s invited.
Titles and Names
Use full names and titles on the outer envelopes. That means no nicknames or first names only. Check spellings to avoid any mishaps.
Some common titles:
- Mr. and Mrs.
- Dr.
- Ms.
- Mx. (for gender neutral)
Inner and Outer Envelopes
The outer envelope has the mailing address and full guest names. The inner envelope says exactly who is invited to be crystal clear. You can include kids’ names or put “and guest” for plus ones.
Examples:
- Outer: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith” / Inner: “John and Jane Smith”
- Outer: “Ms. Emily Johnson” / Inner: “Emily Johnson and guest”
Quick Resources:
- Wedding Vow Writing: Turn your thoughts, emotions, and stories into memorable wedding day vows
- Day-Of Coordination: Full-service wedding support before and during your celebration
- Hire a Bridesmaid: Jen Glantz will be your secret hired bridesmaid
- Check out Etsy for gorgeous and unique wedding invitations
Trends and Personal Touches for Wedding Invitations
Give your invites extra personality with hot trends and custom details. From cool textures to fun photos, little touches will make them stand out. Here are some ideas for unforgettable invitations.
The wedding invitations you send say a lot about your style as a couple. And the wedding invite is the first impression guests get.
Current Trends
See what’s popular this year for modern inspiration. 2024 wedding invitation trends are all about creativity and customization. Think outside the box for invites that wow.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Sustainability is so important to many couples now. And there are lots of gorgeous green options for invitations like:
- 100% recycled paper
- Seed paper you can plant
- Tree-free paper made from cotton or bamboo
- Biodegradable envelopes and labels
Interactive Elements
Make your invites engaging with interactive designs. Guests will have so much fun opening them up. And you can pack in useful planning info too.
Ideas to try:
- Pop up details
- Tear-off RSVP postcards
- Illustrated maps
- QR codes to your website
Adding Personal Touches
The best invitations have lots of heart. Sweet nods to your love story will get guests excited to celebrate. And meaningful details are a special keepsake of an important milestone.
Custom Illustrations
Artwork makes invitations so memorable. Hire an illustrator to draw a custom portrait or venue scene. Watercolors and sketches are beautiful ways to set the mood.
Put illustrations on:
- The main invite
- RSVP card
- Envelope liner
- Custom postage stamp
Handwritten Notes
Nothing feels more personal than a handwritten note. Even just a few words will touch your loved ones’ hearts. They’ll know how much you care.
Note ideas:
- “We can’t wait to celebrate with you!”
- “Your presence is the best present.”
- “Thanks for being part of our love story.”
Handling Special Situations With Wedding Invitations
Weddings come in all shapes and sizes. And your invitations need to fit your specific plans. Clear communication is key for stuff like destination dos and adults-only affairs.
Avoid confusion or frustration with these wedding invitations and tips.
Destination Weddings
Inviting people to a far-off celebration? Give them the scoop ASAP. Send invites earlier than normal so they can plan. And include all the crucial travel details.
Additional Information
Your invitations should have everything guests need to book their trip like:
- Location name and address
- Airports and transportation options
- Room block details
- Local activities and attractions
- Suggested attire for the weather
- Your wedding website
Timing
The further the destination, the more notice you should give. Send out save the dates at least 8 months in advance. Then mail the invitations 3 months before the wedding.
This destination wedding timeline has more tips for staying on track.
Child-Free Weddings
Want a kid-free celebration? Put it plainly on the invite. Guests should know upfront so they can make arrangements. Many couples include this on a reception or details card.
Wording
Be polite but firm about the no-kids policy. Make it obvious that only those named on the invite should attend. And consider explaining your reason so people understand.</
Try these tactful phrases:
- “Adults only celebration”
- “We respectfully request no children under 16”
- “Although we love your little ones, this is an adult-only affair”
Alternatives
Suggest some kid-care options so parents feel supported. You could offer info on:
- Local babysitting services
- Day care centers near the venue
- Nursing rooms for moms with babies
- Kid-friendly activities in the area
Learnings Recap
We covered a ton of helpful stuff in this ultimate guide! You’re basically a wedding invitation pro now. As you start designing and ordering your own invites, remember these key takeaways.
- Know the main invitation components like the invite itself, RSVP card, and extra details cards
- Choose a design that matches your wedding vision and add custom touches
- Follow the proper timeline for sending save the dates and invitations
- Manage your guest list and RSVPs with a clear organization system
- Use current trends and personal details to make your invites unique
- Communicate effectively for destination and kid-free weddings to avoid issues
Final Thoughts
Your wedding invitations are the first look guests get at your big day. So give them the attention they deserve! Have fun picking a design that represents you. Get personal with cute touches. And follow smart etiquette so everyone feels valued. With this guide, you’ve got the inside scoop on incredible invites. Now go create that stationery suite of your dreams! And remember, Bridesmaid for Hire is always here to help with planning and support. We want your wedding to be the best day ever.
Quick Resources:
- Wedding Vow Writing: Turn your thoughts, emotions, and stories into memorable wedding day vows
- Day-Of Coordination: Full-service wedding support before and during your celebration
- Hire a Bridesmaid: Jen Glantz will be your secret hired bridesmaid
- Check out Etsy for gorgeous and unique wedding invitations
1-800-BRIDESMAID
The Newlywed
Card Game
something extra to love
Read the weekly newsletter from Bridesmaid for Hire, 1-800-Bridesmaid, to hear about real stories, from strangers, who need advice on love, life, friendship, and so much more.
Looking for the perfect wedding gift for someone you adore? Grab The Newlywed Card Game. It's a fun and interactive game they can play on their honeymoon or future date nights.
