I get it – there’s a lot to think about before you order your wedding invitations… and there are so many different kinds of details cards. So it’s no surprise if you’re confused about what to include in your invitation suite! Before you can place your invitation order, you’ll want to have an idea of what cards you’ll actually need.
So, do you really need multiple details cards in your invitation suite? It depends… Think of the wedding invitation as your way of providing all the important details to your guests.
Ask yourself: What do your guests need to know?
The greater detail provided in your invitations, the fewer questions to field leading up to your big day. There are crucial details every wedding invitation should include and some optional add-ons. Let’s dive in!
Wedding Invitation Must-Haves
INVITATION CARD
Okay, duh. You want to say who’s getting married, along with where and when it’s happening. Sometimes the invitation includes the couples’ parents, but that’s totally up to you. You’ll definitely want to specify if there’s a change in location between the ceremony and the reception venue any provide guidance around the dress code, if required.
REPLY CARD
It may sound old fashioned in this high-tech world*, but a printed reply card is hands-down the easiest way to keep track of your guests. You can also ask for meal choices or to RSVP for other weekend events. Don’t forget to include a stamped, addressed envelope for your guests to send the card back to you!
*You’re not committing a huge faux pas if you opt to go with online RSVPs. But do keep in mind this may not be the best solution for all guests (older relatives, flakey friends, etc.) and be sure you have a system in place to track replies!
Invitation Suite Nice-to-Haves
RECEPTION CARD
Good to include if…
Your reception is at a separate location from the ceremony venue, or is at a time other than immediately following the ceremony. It’s better to include this on a separate card rather than crowding your gorgeous invite with too much information.
ACCOMMODATIONS CARD
Good to include if…
You’ve got out-of-towners on your guest list. If you have a room block, include a card listing the hotel name, address, and phone number, along with a contact name if needed, and the name of the room block. It’s not a bad idea to give guests a suggested date to book by.
WEEKEND EVENTS CARD
Good to include if…
You’re planning a destination wedding or a fun-filled weekend for your guests. List what’s happening in the days preceding and following the main event, with times and locations.
MAP / DIRECTIONS CARD
Good to include if…
Your venue is hard to find, at a private home or in a rural location with limited cell phone reception. Thanks to the rise of smartphones, these inserts are less of a necessity.
REHEARSAL DINNER CARD
Good to include if…
You’re planning something on the casual side and you don’t have too many other cards in your invitation suite. Otherwise, I generally recommend sending the rehearsal dinner invitation in a separate mailing to keep your invitation from getting too bulky. Snail mail is such a rarity these days—it’ll make them feel extra special!
And there you have it! Got more questions? I’m just an email away.
xoxo, Ashley
PS – You can add any of these options to your invitation suite here on our site! Just select the option to add a Details Card to your order, and enter your wording in the space provided.
