Destination wedding invitation etiquette

Destination weddings involve a ton of complicated logistics and questions and all of that happens after you decide that an exotic “I do” is right for you. When do you inform friends and family about your getaway wedding plans and how much information should you include in your invitations? What’s the destination wedding invitation etiquette?

1. How far in advance should we send out save-the-dates and invitations for our destination wedding?

The first step is to send save-the-date cards as soon as you’ve decided to take your celebration afar.
Word on the hostess circuit is that you send out save-the-date cards eight months prior the wedding date. Not only do some people have to apply for passports and save money, but there are those who will have to get time off from their jobs, arrange child care, and take care of other pesky chores so they can join you. Advance notice will give guests more flexibility when they’re making travel arrangements, too. With this in mind, add on an extra two or three weeks to those time frames to ensure that guests have adequate time to prepare for what is essentially a vacation. With all of that planned, you’ll want to make sure everyone you love is there to see it all come together.
The destination wedding invitation etiquette indicates that your invitations should then be sent eight to ten weeks before the wedding. Include pertinent information, such as flight options, hotel room blocks if any, airport transportation, and a list of activities that may be of interest. Wedding invitations should include the full names of the couple marrying and those of the hosts (if they’re different), the place and time, and that’s it. “No children” isn’t included on the invite; it’s implied by the names on the envelope. Nor should you list registry information on the invitation—family and attendants can spread the word when asked about it, or you can provide it on your website.

 

Great Save the Date idea by Can Kinalikaya

2. When should we make the deadline for RSVPs?

Make your RSVP date two to three weeks before your wedding date — this will allow enough time for you to get a final head count to the caterer (one week before) and to finalize your seating chart. If some guests still haven’t responded by your deadline, give them a quick call and ask for their RSVPs (still via mail) so you have all their information.

3. Where do we include information about our wedding website?

Your wedding website should be included on your save-the-date. A simple “alexandhermione.com,” is all you really need. If you’d like (or if you don’t have save-the-dates), you can include the web address in the formal invitations with an insert – a small card that informs guests they can find more details online.

Proper destination wedding invitation etiquette dictates that you give guests plenty of advanced notice if you’re planning a destination wedding. This way, they can check their finances, adjust work schedules, and make travel arrangements in a timely fashion. With all these in mind the more time the better for your guests!

  1. vanda
    | Reply

    This is really nice!! One of the nicest videos ”Save the Date” I’ve ever seen!!
    Well done guys!
    Vanda

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