Your wedding invitation isn’t just paper. It’s a vibe. It sets the tone for your day, tells your guests what to expect, and, honestly, gives everyone a peek into how seriously (or not) you’re taking the planning process. No pressure or anything.
While designs are fun, fonts are sexy, and wax seals feel ridiculously satisfying, wedding invitation etiquette still matters—a lot. It’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about being clear, kind, and a little classy with the logistics.
Whether you’re going full glam, backyard chic, or eloping and throwing a party later, here are all the dos and don’ts you actually need to know.
1. DO send them out at the right time
If you send your invites too early, people forget. Too late, and they’re scrambling for travel, babysitters, and outfits. Find the sweet spot.
- Save the Dates: 6–8 months before the wedding (earlier if it’s a destination wedding).
- Formal Invitations: 6–8 weeks before the day. At least 12 weeks for destination weddings?
And let’s be real… You need time for printing, calligraphy, stuffing envelopes, and hunting down addresses from college roommates who have moved 12 times since graduation.
So, plan backward and don’t cut it close.
2. DON’T include your registry link on the invitation
We get it. You spent hours curating your registry with the perfect balance of fancy plates and practical air fryers. But your invitation isn’t the place to shout, “Here’s what to buy us!”
It’s a little tacky to mention gifts directly on the invite. Instead:
- Add your registry to your wedding website.
- Mention the website URL on an insert card or your RSVP card.
- Let your wedding party spread the word if guests ask.
Bottom line: keep the invite about the event, not the presents.
3. DO be super clear about who’s invited
Nothing causes wedding chaos quite like guest list confusion. If you don’t want your co-worker showing up with their brand-new Tinder date, label those envelopes right.
- “Ms. Emily Chen and Guest” = she gets a plus one.
- “The Robinson Family” = kiddos are invited.
- Just “Mr. and Mrs. Rodriguez” = sorry, no kids this time.
Be specific. Be intentional. And if you’re going for an adults-only wedding, don’t beat around the bush. Try a line like:
“We love your little ones, but this celebration is just for the grown-ups.”
Clarity now saves you from awkward texts later.
4. DON’T forget the must-have info
Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many couples skip basic details in the name of . Don’t be that couple.
What needs to be on the main invite:
- Full names of the couple
- Wedding date and time
- Venue name and address
- Reception info (if it’s separate)
- Dress code (if you’re particular)
Helpful extras for an insert or detail card:
- Directions
- Nearby accommodations
- Transportation details
- Wedding website and/or QR code
- RSVP instructions and deadline
Less guessing = happier guests.
5. DO keep your wording authentic to you
You don’t have to sound like you live in Downton Abbey unless you want to. Formal is great if you’re having a formal event, but if you’re more tacos-and-dancing than black-tie-and-harpist, speak your truth.
Here’s how you can tweak the tone:
Traditional:
- “Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Myers request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter…”
Modern:
- “Join us to celebrate the wedding of Amelia and Jordan!”
Casual but still chic:
- “We’re getting married! Come party with us.”
Your wording is your call as long as it’s clear, respectful, and typo-free.
6. DON’T go wild with too many insert cards
Yes, it’s tempting to include the dinner menu, the love story timeline, a map of the venue, and a poetic welcome note, but slow down. Too many pieces = overwhelmed guests and more chances for things to get lost.
Here’s what works:
- Main invitation
- RSVP card (or website link)
- Detailed card (accommodations, website, etc.)
- Maybe one cute extra card for something personal
Keep it neat. Keep it elegant. Or at least keep it all in the same envelope.
7. DO triple-check your spelling, grammar, and info
You will miss something. That’s just the rule of the wedding universe. So, before hitting print:
- Check spelling of names (yes, even your fiancé’s).
- Confirm the venue’s address. Go stalk it on Google Maps.
- Re-read dates and times out loud.
- Get someone who’s never seen the invite to proofread it. Fresh eyes catch fresh mistakes.
Trust us, it’s cheaper to fix a typo now than to reprint 200 invitations later.
8. DON’T skimp on RSVP instructions
You’ll need those RSVPs to finalize your seating chart, catering count, and general sanity. So make it ridiculously easy for guests to reply.
- Include a pre-stamped RSVP card they can mail back.
- Offer an online RSVP option, like a QR code, a wedding website, etc.
- Clearly state a deadline (ideally 3–4 weeks before the wedding).
And if Aunt Rina still hasn’t responded by the deadline, send a gentle text or call. You will have to chase a few guests, so just accept that now.
9. DO consider your paper quality and printing method
Design matters, but so does touch. Invitations printed on flimsy paper or poorly cut cards just don’t hit the same. You don’t need to blow the budget, but don’t cheap out either.
Common options:
- Digital printing: Budget-friendly, fast, solid quality.
- Letterpress: Pressed ink = major texture and elegance.
- Foil stamping: Metallic magic for glam weddings.
- Velvet or handmade paper: Luxe and tactile, great for intimate or high-end events.
Also: Order a sample if possible. Photos can lie. Or find a trusted vendor to order wedding invitations online.
10. DON’T forget to order extras
Order 10 to 20 extra copies of everything, including envelopes and any important addresses, to avoid mistakes. Your mom may want three copies for framing. Also, get a few extra envelopes for trial runs if you’re DIYing calligraphy or wax seals. Smudges happen when finalizing your wedding card theme and style.
11. DO think about accessibility and inclusivity
Accessibility isn’t just about font size (though yes, keep it legible). Think about your wording, too, whether you are working on the address for the wedding card or the final layout.
- Avoid gendered assumptions (like “Mr. and Mrs.” if your friends are a same-sex couple).
- Make your wedding website accessible (larger fonts, high contrast, alt text on images).
- If you’re including a dress code, explain it clearly. Don’t make guests Google what “semi-formal boho-glam” means.
Being thoughtful = being a better host.
12. DON’T rely only on digital invitations unless you’re 100% sure
E-invites are budget-friendly and eco-conscious, but they’re also easy to miss. If your guest list is younger and tech-savvy, they might love it. But for older guests or more formal weddings, printed invites still win.
A solid middle ground: send a digital Save the Date, then follow up with a printed invite. Best of both worlds.
13. DO track every RSVP like it’s your job
Google Sheets. Airtable. Wedding planning apps. Whatever system you choose, get organized.
Track:
- Who’s coming
- How many guests
- Meal choices (if applicable)
- Any allergies or notes
This makes seating, catering, and communication way less stressful down the line.
14. DON’T second-guess your style
Velvet invitations are a big yes. Go for it. Acrylic wedding cards? Go for it. Dried flowers pressed in the envelope? Love it.
Once you’ve picked your vibe, own it. Your invitations are a reflection of you two. Don’t let anyone’s unsolicited opinion at the brunch table make you doubt your choices.
If you love it, that’s all that matters.
Wrapping it up
Wedding invitation etiquette isn’t here to make your life harder. It’s here to keep things running smoothly. A well-designed, properly timed, and clearly worded invitation sets the tone for your big day and gives your guests the info they need to show up, show out, and celebrate right.
So send with love. Keep it clear. And please don’t forget the RSVP deadline.
Are you looking for handcrafted wedding invitations that are both etiquette and aesthetics-perfect? Reach out to Duallush. Talk to our design team or browse our latest collections to get inspiration and order wedding invitations online with no hassle.