When it comes to writing out your invitations, there is tradition, there are rules, there is confusion! BUT, Minted is here to sort it all out for you with some do’s and don’ts of writing out your wedding day details for your guests! From plus ones to postage, we’ve got the ‘yays’ and the ‘nays’ all laid out for you, below. Plus a text your photo option for custom designs by the Minted team! Check it all out below!
Do’s
Send Your Invitations on Time…Firstly, it’s important to order your invitations four-five months out! It’s typical to mail the invitations six weeks in advance of your wedding date unless it’s a destination wedding or over a holiday. In this case, send out your invitations three months ahead of your big day.
Be Conscientious in Setting RSVP Deadlines…Ensure you give guests ample time to reply while leaving enough buffer time to finalize headcounts for your caterer and venue.
List “Plus-One” Names…While your guest will appreciate you extending the invite to their “plus one,” go the extra mile by including their full name on the invitation as well. Your guest and their plus-one will appreciate the personalization and be even more honored to celebrate your special day!
Mention the Host Names First…The hosts are typically the bride or groom’s parents. As a courtesy, you can consider including your significant other’s parents even if they are not funding the wedding. Another option is to say ‘Together With Their Parent’s/Families…”
Set the Tone for your Wedding Reception…Whether you choose classic wording, such as “reception to follow” or take a more bubbly approach with “join us for drinks, dinner, and dancing,” make sure you include details about your after-ceremony festivities!
Include Your Wedding Website…Don’t forget to include your wedding website on your invitation! This allows your attendees to view pertinent details about your wedding, such as the itinerary, travel, and where you are registered. It is also a wonderful way for your guests to learn more about your love story and view snapshots of you and your soon-to-be spouse!
Use Appropriate Titles and Ensure Correct Spelling…Make sure your guests know how important they are to you by spelling their full legal names correctly and using proper titles. Proofreading is so important – don’t be shy about asking your fiancé, parents, and bridesmaids to read over your invitations before sending them out.
Include Postage…If you’re requesting RSVPs via mail, your wedding guests should not have to pay even a cent to reply. As a side note: choosing postage that matches your palette and wedding theme is always a delightful touch! Plus, it will make for a beautiful flat lay shot of your wedding stationery!
Offer Meal Choices…If you are having a sit-down dinner, include your entrée options on the RSVP response cards. This way, you can ensure your guests will be served exactly what they want, and your caterer will thank you for the crystal-clear communication.
Don’ts
Create Alternate Guest Lists…Some couples create a “B-list” of guests in cases where many of their “A-list” guests decline. But, try to stick to your original list – your best friend’s cousin is either invited or not. Chances are “B-list” guests will discover their “A-list” friends received their invitations weeks earlier, and nobody enjoys feeling like an afterthought.
Mention Registry Information or Gifts on Your Invitation…Opt for including it on your wedding website instead as it is generally considered to be poor-form to include such details – or any mention of gifts – on the invitation. Your registry information is also likely to spread through word of mouth with your loved ones abuzz in anticipation of your big day!
Spell Out Courtesy Titles …The ONLY exception is “Doctor.”
Rush the Follow Up…It’s likely that your guests mailed their RSVPs just as the deadline approached. Wait three-four days (or even better, a week) before calling to follow up!
Let Your Guests Know You’re Having an “Unplugged” Ceremony…Save this detail for your wedding website. Also, be sure to display an explanatory sign that your guests can read before being seated and include this information in your wedding program. Your officiant can also make a brief announcement before the ceremony begins.
Minted offers unique designs by independent artists with unlimited rounds of customization with your dedicated Minted designer. From start to finish, Minted offers you a seamless process with FREE custom envelopes and FREE guest addressing to match your design, and these do’s and don’ts certainly don’t hurt!… And did you know that you can also text a photo to 22737 and they will send you back 5 save the date, event change, or engagement announcements selected especially for your photo?
Invitations: Minted