There are many preparations necessary for any couple that has
decided to get married. After the couple has selected a location and date, they
generally compile a guest list based on how many people they plan to invite. In
many cases, the number of guests is dictated by the size of the reception
location. In addition, the size of the wedding greatly influences the cost and
therefore, each couple’s guest list size can vary greatly.
For some couples,
the guest list includes only close family and friends. For other couples, the
list includes large numbers of people, including work associates past and
present. No matter what the size of the guest list, couples will need to send
out wedding invitations. In many cases, couples will first send out a
“save the date” postcard in order to alert guests to the wedding date
in advance. Choosing the wedding invitation is a decision based on several
factors.
A wedding invitation will generally list the specific details of the wedding.
Wedding invitations include the brides and grooms name, as well as the names of
the parents involved in the wedding. The wedding invitation will also list the
date, time and location of both the wedding and the reception. In addition, wedding
invitations often list hotels in the area, for guests that are traveling in
order to attend the event. Included in that, is often directions to all venues
that guests will need to locate.
Many times, a wedding invitation will say how
formal the event is. For example, a wedding invitation may specify that the
event is black tie. If however, the invitation does not specify, it is generally
assumed that the event will be formal. Many wedding invitations now offer
guests a choice for food selection for the reception. Many times, a wedding
invitation will have a slip of paper which allows guests to indicate their food
choice, as well as whether they will be bringing a guest to the reception.
In
addition, a wedding invitation may list where a couple is registered for gifts
so that guests can make a choice based on what the couple needs to complete
their new home. Proper etiquette dictates that guests return their RSVP
as soon as possible. In addition, etiquette dictates that the bride and groom
mail their invitations rather than hand deliver them. Currently, most wedding
invitations include various papers that include many pieces of information
whereas in the past, they were simply just a card with basic information.
Couples generally choose their wedding invitation based on preference. First,
they must be sure that there is enough room to list all pertinent information.
In addition, couples will want the invitation to match the formality of the
wedding. For simple weddings, couples will likely choose a simple invitation.
Formal and fancy invitations can be quite expensive. Couples also select the
design and colors that will be on their wedding invitation. The most important
detail of any invitation, is that it includes all pertinent information in a
clear and concise manner.
