Inviting Elegance: How to Impress Your Guests with Your Wedding Invitations
Let's dive into the art of crafting the perfect wedding invitation. Etiquette isn't just about good manners; it sets the mood for your big day. Here's your guide to getting it right:
The Invitation Essentials:
Your wedding invitation should be a beautiful story wrapped in an envelope. Here's what it should contain:
The hosts' names, usually the parents of the bride.
The names of the lovebirds tying the knot.
The when and where: date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception.
RSVP specifics: the deadline and how they can respond.
Dress code, if you have one in mind.
Any additional events like the rehearsal dinner.
Directions or a map, if needed. Include parking specifics if there is offsite or unconventional parking.
Any other crucial details your guests need to know including your wedding website if you have one.
Here are a few of our favorite invitation options!
RSVP - Do’s & Don’ts
Did you know that RSVP stands for a French phrase “Répondez s'il vous plaît” which translates to “respond, if you please.”
After planning your own wedding, I promise, you will be the FIRST to respond to everyone else’s invitations because you will understand the stress and frustration that comes with hunting down guests asking if they will make it to the wedding.
Why do RSVPs matter? Many times, your guest count needs to be finalized 30 days before the wedding so you can finalize food, seating plan, alcohol and other details that can have a massive impact on your budget and flow of the wedding.
How should guests RSVP? The traditional RSVP etiquette is to put an RSVP card in the mail either as a postcard or with an envelope so your guests can mail back their response.
Online RSVP: A Yes or a No? Is 'yes' to an online RSVP a 'no' to manners? It depends on your guests. The digital-savvy audience may find it convenient and eco-conscious. But for traditionalists or formal events, a physical RSVP card might be more suitable. Offering both might be your best bet.
It is important on the RSVP card to indicate how many guests your invitee is brining. If you cousin has 5 children, an RSVP of 7 is very different than an RSVP of 2 if they get a babysitter for a parents night out. You will also want to put the food selection on the RSVP if you are having a plated meal with multiple options.
Another tip is to print return address labels for your guests with your new or current address. Below is a link to download 5 FREE Address labels that are completely customizable to use for your wedding invites.
The Invitation Timeline:
The key to a stress-free wedding is timing. Here's the ideal timeline:
Save-the-Dates: Send 6-8 months before the wedding.
Invitations: Mail 6-8 weeks before the ceremony.
RSVP Date: Set it for 2-4 weeks before the big day.
Remember, these are just guidelines. Every wedding is unique, and factors like destination weddings or guests traveling from afar might require adjustments. Paying close attention to detail and communicating clearly will keep your guests well-informed and eagerly anticipating your special day.
Cheers to starting the party off on the right foot with your invitations!
-Abbey & The Brownstone Design Studio Team
