Wedding Invitations Checklist

When planning a wedding, there are a lot of pieces of information that need to be given to each guests so they know what to do and what to expect for the event. The first step to be sure that everything is covered is to compile a list of the information for the specific event, and then proceed with arranging it. Keep in mind that spacing is often limited, especially considering the amount of information that must be extended to guests for such an important occasion.

* Greeting: It is customary to begin invitations with a cordial greeting such as "Please join us" or "You are cordially invited to."
* Parent/Host Names: In the case of wedding invitations, the host names are most often incorporated into the greeting, as they are generally the parents of a bride/groom that are hosting the event (ex. "Please join Mr. & Mrs. Smith" or "Mr. & Mrs. Smith cordially invite you to").
* Couple's Names: The names can be combined with "and," or with any manner of wording that reads fluidly. Full names are always used (middle names optional).
* Date: The day of the week, month, date, and year are generally all given.
* Ceremony Time: This time indicates when the ceremony begins. Guests should arrive in advance.
* Ceremony Place Name: The full name of the location, as well as any details such as the room of the event should be included.
* Ceremony Place Address: The street address in general should be included. Depending on the guest list, the city, state, or zip may be optional. For example, if there are no out-of-town guests, it is unnecessary to indicate the state and zip code.
* Reception Time: If the reception immediately follows the ceremony, it is still important to include "Reception to follow" in the wording. If the reception is being held on a different date, be sure to include BOTH dates, else send multiple invitations.
* Reception Place Name: If the reception is being held at a different location, be sure to specify the name and room name if applicable. Otherwise, if it is at the same location a room name will work (ex. "Reception to follow in the Ballroom")
* Reception Place Address: If the reception is at a different location than the ceremony, then the address should also be provided. If it is at the same location, the name will suffice.
* Reply Cards: These are meant to help the guest communicate attendance to the host. The cards can be easily compiled as they are received, to avoid confusion of taking calls and missing messages.
* Reply Date: Including a reply date gives guests a deadline that will be necessary to inform vendors of final head counts and arrangements.
* Reply Options: Include options for guests to select whether or not they will be attending, and also if they will be bringing any guests.
* Menu Cards: For plated dinners, guests will need to select the meal they prefer. Menu cards are used similar to reply cards for the guests to make their meal selections.
* Menu options & number of guests: Include each dish available to the guests along with a brief description. The description need not be as detailed as might be found on a normal menu.
* Self addressed stamped reply envelope: An envelope for a reply card and menu card, if applicable, should be included. It is best to have the envelope pre-addressed and stamped to provide maximum convenience to guests. They need only make their selections and put the envelope in the mailbox with no further hassle.

Following this checklist will ensure that every bit of information that wedding invitations require have been met. Most cases will find they need less information than is listed to custom tailor to their event. With all of this in hand, guests will be well informed and prepared to attend this beautiful day.

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