Cori Russell is editor for Elegala.com and Gala Weddings Magazine. Elegala.com is a complete Weddings, Wedding Planning resource with a national directory of wedding venues and services, how-to guides, photo galleries, checklists, and expert advice to walk brides through every step of the wedding planning process. View the complete sitemap to find everything you need to plan your wedding.
Wedding invitations can be as simple as one sheet of cardstock printed with the basics, or they can include a number of enclosures. Depending on the nature of your wedding, and your stationery budget, you may choose to consolidate and forego certain invitation enclosures. Not sure what you need? Here is a complete guide to the various enclosures you may want to include in your wedding invitation.
Outer Envelope:
Most wedding invitations consist of two separate envelopes. The outer envelope (the one actually scanned by the post office) lists the complete names and addresses of all recipients and holds all enclosures.
Inner Envelope:
The inner envelope lists only the names of invited recipients. It holds all the contents of the formal, third-person invitation for protection during shipping.
Reception Cards:
Reception cards specify where and when the reception will be held. These are only necessary if the ceremony and reception will take place at different locations. It is also perfectly acceptable to forgo the separate card and print reception information directly onto the wedding invitation.
Response Cards:
Your guests will use the response cards (also known as RSVP cards) to indicate whether or not they will attend your wedding and their meal preference (if applicable). Make sure to print an RSVP deadline on the card, and always include a self-addressed stamped envelope.
Map/Directional:
This optional insert will help guests navigate and arrange for accommodations and is especially useful if there is a significant distance or confusing directions between wedding event locations. You can order a matching direction card from your invitation stationer to ensure a cohesive look to your stationery suite, or you can write and print it out by hand.
Ceremony Cards:
These are used when some guests are invited to the reception only (making the ceremony a private, family affair). The main wedding invitation is for the reception, while the ceremony enclosure is included for the few guests who are invited to the ceremony.
Accommodations Cards:
Accommodations cards are useful for destination weddings or any wedding with a significant number of out-of-town guests. These cards provide them with any necessary travel, lodging, and area information.
Now that you´re an expert on invitation enclosures, consult this complete wedding invitations guide for everything you need to know about planning and sending your invites.
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