Wedding Invitation Checklist: What to Include in Your Invites

While you might focus on larger elements of your big day, such as the venue, guest lists, or even the flower arrangements, wedding details cards and invitations are just as important. They are the first thing your guests will receive, and with the right choices, they set the tone for your wedding. 

But with so many details to consider, it's easy to overlook even the most vital details. That's why our team at Ivory and Ink have put together this comprehensive wedding invitation checklist to help you make sure you include everything you need in your invites.

Decide Between Paper vs Digital Invitations

When it comes to modern wedding invitations, there are two main options: paper and digital. Both have their pros and cons, so it's essential to consider which one is right for you.

Paper invitations are traditional and elegant, capable of customisation to match the theme of your wedding. They also provide a physical keepsake for your guests, especially when you invest in designer wedding invites from leaders in the industry. Naturally, this option will require a little more investment and will take some extra time to mail.

Digital invitations, on the other hand, are a budget-friendly alternative, but they need the personal touch of a physical, tangible invite, leaving it less memorable for your guests. When they receive their invitation alongside regular correspondence and work messages, how easy can it be for those you want to share your special day with to forget to respond to an email lost in their inbox?

Select the Design – Elaborate vs Simple Wedding Invitations

Once you've decided on the format of your traditional or modern wedding invitations, it's time to choose a design. There are many different styles to choose from, including conventional, elaborate designs or the more subdued, simple wedding invitations.

Simple invitations are classic and timeless, and they are perfect for traditional weddings. They are also easy to read and understand, which helps your guests navigate the event’s logistics.

On the other hand, elaborate invitations are more contemporary and unique, perfect for couples who want to make a statement with their invitations. They can also be more colourful and fun, which is ideal for a more casual wedding.

How to Write a Wedding Invitation

When it comes to how to write your wedding invitations, there are a few key details you need to include:

The Essential Details of the Wedding Ceremony & Reception

• Who: Names of the bride and groom
• The occasion: "We are excited to invite you to the wedding of…"
• The date: Day, month, and even the year of the wedding, should it be well into the future
• The time: Start and end time of the ceremony and reception
• The location: Name and address of the ceremony and reception venues
• The RSVP details: Phone number and/or email address for guests to RSVP and date by which they should respond

Additional Details for the Wedding Ceremony & Reception

• Wedding reception dress code: Formal dress, casual attire, or perhaps even specific themes you would like your guests to embrace
• Music requests: Any special requests for the wedding ceremony or reception
• Transportation & logistical information: Any information on parking, shuttles, or other transportation details
• Accommodation details: Information on nearby hotels and any group rates you may have secured
• Itinerary: A rough schedule of the day's events
• Policy around children: Whether or not children are invited to the wedding.

Select an Appropriate Wedding RSVP Date

Establishing a clear RSVP date well in advance of your wedding day is crucial, especially if you are planning a sit-down meal and creating a seating chart. 

Giving yourself at least six weeks’ notice before the big day can help avoid any last-minute stress, allowing for a cushion of time in case of any delays from those who tend to be slower in responding. This also gives you ample time to prepare any wedding favours or gifts and provide final headcounts to your caterer, who will need to order food accordingly. And if you are planning to bring your own alcohol, this will provide you with an earlier timeline to secure your RSVPs and gauge the amount of alcohol you will need to purchase.

Additionally, this will allow you, or your wedding planner or stylist, to reserve the right amount of equipment necessary for your wedding, such as seating, cutlery, and plates. 

At Ivory and Ink, we require 4-5 weeks to design and print wedding day stationery items, such as seating charts, menus and place cards. You would need to have your RSVPs returned before you can arrange your seating chart and order your place cards.

Send Out Invites with Ample Time to Ensure Adequate Wedding RSVP

Finally, make sure to send out your invitations with plenty of time for your guests to receive them, read them, and respond. Typically, it's best to send invitations out at least 8-12 weeks before the wedding.

For more information beyond our comprehensive wedding invitations checklist, please feel encouraged to contact us at Ivory & Ink Weddings or book a consultation today!