When planning your wedding, there are certain responsibilities and expectations that must be fulfilled. How do you know what you can skip and what you need to do? When it comes to wedding invitations we have all of the answers to your burning questions! Read on for wedding invitation etiquette and how to correctly send out your invites.
When should I send out wedding invitations?
Usually, invitations go out six to eight weeks before the wedding. That gives guests plenty of time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements if they do not live in the vicinity. If it is a destination wedding, give guests more time and send them out three months ahead of the wedding to be sure they have plenty of time to plan to attend. These days most couples also send out save-the-date cards so that their guests can hold the day in their calendar before getting into all of the details. Save-the-dates typically are usually sent out six to eight months before the wedding.
Should we include our registry information on our invitations or save the dates?
Including registry information on the wedding invitations or save-the-dates is considered impolite because it can give the impression you are actively asking for gifts. The most acceptable way is to put your registry information directly on your wedding website if you plan on having one. If you are planning on having a wedding shower, you can put your registry information on the bridal shower invitations, since that is what a bridal or wedding shower is for. You can also tell your wedding party, parents, and close friends where you are registered, and let them tell guests! There are so many do’s and don’ts for wedding etiquette, you want to be as polite as possible.
When should I make the deadline for RSVPs?
Make your RSVP date two to three weeks before your wedding date to allow enough time for you to get a final headcount to the caterer. Also, you will be able to finalize your seating chart. If some guests still have not responded by your deadline, give them a quick call and ask for their RSVPs so you have all their information. RSVPs are extremely important so you can make sure you have just enough food and beverages for your guests who are actually attending.

How do we let guests know our dress code?
The easiest way to include a dress code in your invitation is to insert it in the lower right-hand corner of the invite or on a reception card. “Black tie,” “casual attire” or “cocktail attire” are all acceptable examples of wordings. Your invitation design has the ability to also clue guests in. An ultra-formal, traditional invite with letterpress and calligraphy will give guests a hint of the formal nature of the event, whereas an invite with a playful font and bright colors would fit a much more casual style. Another option is to direct guests to your wedding website if you have one, where you can go into more detail about the weekend events and dress code in a more informal forum.
The return address usually goes on the back flap of the envelope. Also, the return address used should be that of the person whom you have designated to receive response cards, whether it be your parents or even you. Traditionally, whoever is hosting the wedding handles response cards so their address will be needed. Do not forget that the RSVP envelope should also be printed with this address and should also include postage.
Wedding invitation etiquette do’s and don’ts are still observed and although some can be skipped, you should familiarize yourself with what is expected of you. Wedding planning can be hectic but there are some things you will not want to skip. Need to book a venue for your perfect day? The Louisiana Cajun Mansion Event Venue can help! Visit https://cajunmansion.com/wedding-packages to view our all-inclusive wedding packages or call 337-223-4722 for more information!