When should we send out our save the dates?

Most couples send out save-the-date cards, they go out at 6-8 months. For a destination wedding, it is customary to mail save the dates 8 to 12 months in advance.

When should we send out our wedding invitations?

Invitations traditionally go out 6-8 weeks before the wedding. If it’s a destination wedding, give guests more time and send them out 3 months ahead of time.

When should we make the deadline for RSVPs?

Make your RSVP date 2-3 weeks before your wedding date to allow enough time for you to get a final head count to the caterer (one week before) and to finalise your seating chart and place cards. If some guests still haven’t responded by your deadline, give them a quick call or message and ask for their RSVPs (still via mail) so you have all their information.

Where do we include information about our wedding website?

Your wedding website should be included on your save-the-date if you have them. You should also include the website with your main invitation cards. You can include the web address in the formal invitation at the bottom, or on a small card that informs guests they can find more details online.

We’re having an adults-only wedding (no kids). How can we make sure this is clear to our guests?

Address your invitations correctly—to each guest by name, not “and guest”—and guests should understand that the invite is meant for only those mentioned. If you find that some reply with their children’s names added, give them a call and explain you’re having an adults-only wedding and you hope they can still attend. If there are a lot of kids in your family, you may want to consider hiring or arranging for a babysitter. It’s definitely not required, but it’s a nice gesture. Just be sure to include this information on the wedding website.

How do we let guests know our dress code?

The easiest way to get your point across is to include a dress code at the bottom of the invite or on a reception card. “Black tie,” “cocktail attire” or “casual attire” are all acceptable. Your invitation design will also clue guests in. An ultra-formal, traditional invite with letterpress and calligraphy will give guests a hint to the formal nature of the event, whereas a square invite with a playful font and bright colors would fit a much more casual style. Another way is to direct guests to your wedding website, where you can go into more detail about the weekend events and dress code in a more informal forum.

Where do you put the return address on wedding invitations?

The return address can go at the top left corner of the envelope. Make sure that the return address used is that of the person whom you’ve designated to receive response cards. Don’t forget that the RSVP envelope should also be printed with this address.