What to include in your wedding invitations

From the finer details to the wedding invitation wording, follow our guide on what to include in your wedding invitations

Your wedding invitations serve as the first glimpse into your wedding. They set the tone for your special day and invite your guests to celebrate with you. By including essential details, adding personalised touches and choosing the right wording, you can deliver wedding invitations that inform your guests and build the excitement surrounding your special day.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to include in your wedding invitations and how to word them for a perfectly presented stationery suite…

So, what should be included in your wedding invitations? Let’s dive in…

Make sure your guests have all the details they need regarding your wedding day by sending them a full wedding invitation suite. An invitation suite should include the formal invitation, a response card and important information regarding the wedding day. The stationery suite should be designed to go together, in keeping with your wedding theme.

From floral designs to modern monochrome invites, the options for style are endless! Once you’ve chosen the style, here is a list of what to include in your wedding invitations.

Formal Invitation Card
The formal invitation should deliver the actual invite and include the venue, date, time and who the invitation is from.
Additional Information Card
An option extra, an information card is designed to give guests the finer details. This card should help the guests with directions and accommodation options. They can also be used to inform them of key information, such as your day being an adult-only event or a request for no photographs to be taken during the ceremony.
Menu Card
If your guests have a choice to make for the wedding breakfast, add a menu card. Clearly detail the starter, main course and dessert options they can choose from.
Design Details
From ribbons and twine to patterned envelope liners and wax seals, the finishing touches to the invitation suite should give each paper piece a cohesive look and be in keeping with your overall wedding theme.
Response Card
Include an RSVP card for each guest to send back to you confirming their attendance. This card should state the date the card needs to be returned and ask your guests about any dietary restrictions.
Postal Envelope
Include an addressed envelope with the stationery suite. Then your guests can simply pop their response in the post and send it to the correct address. Add a postage stamp if you want to make everything as easy as possible for your guests!

Wedding Invitation Wording

The way your wedding invitations are worded will indicate to your guests whether your event will be a formal affair or a more relaxed celebration. It will also let guests know who will be hosting the wedding, the couple themselves or their parents. Unsure of the key details to include in your invitations?

Keep reading for a full list.

Your Names
Arguably the most obvious thing to include on your wedding invitation, but how you add your name is a crucial element of your stationery. Decide if you want to include your title, first name and surname. Including your title and surname will make the invitations read more formally while including first names only will give your invitations a more relaxed, informal feel. Your names can be incorporated into the design of the invitation too, so keep that in mind when you decide how you want them written.
The Venue
Let everyone know the name of the venue and its location on the main invitation. If you have a separate venue for your ceremony and reception, include both venues. Including the location or county will help your guest to plan their attendance at your wedding.
The Wedding Date
Let everyone know the date you will be tying the knot. The wedding date is often included as part of the design too, whether written in calligraphy text or in a bold font adorned with whimsical watercolour flowers.
Important Timings
While it might seem obvious, couples often forget to include the timings on their wedding invitations. Remember to include the ceremony start time for day guests. For evening-only guests, omit the daytime information and include the evening reception arrival time instead.
RSVP Date
Include a date that guests will need to confirm their attendance. Choose a date that will allow you time to collate the information for your caterers and to order on-the-day stationery items, like place name cards and a table plan. Remember to ask guests to fill in their menu options (if required) or to notify you of any dietary requirements with their response. The response card should have a space for your guests to add their names so that you know who has replied.
Finer Details
Include the finer details on an additional information card. These details are optional but could include accommodation options, directions to the venue, dress code and gift list requests. State the arrival time for day guests – usually at least half an hour before the ceremony begins.
Name of Those Invited
As you are likely to send one invitation per household, clearly add the name of each individual invited on the envelope. This will ensure your guests know who is (and who is not) invited to your wedding, including whether or not children are included.