Mistake #1: Skipping Save the Dates
Skipping save the dates is a mistake that can lead to confusion, especially for guests who need to make travel arrangements. Save the dates help your loved ones plan in advance, ensuring that they can attend your big day. Ideally, send them out 6-12 months before the wedding, particularly if it’s a destination wedding or falls during a busy season. Providing this extra heads-up helps guests mark their calendars early and ensures you have the best chance of a full guest list on your special day.
Explore Shutterfly’s collection of save the date cards that fit the vibe of your big day or showcase your engagement photos.
Mistake #2: Sending Invitations Too Late
Timing is everything when it comes to wedding invitations. Many couples make the mistake of sending them out too late, which can cause confusion or result in guests being unable to attend. It’s best to send out your wedding invitations about 6-8 weeks before the wedding day. For destination weddings or holiday seasons, consider sending them earlier, around 3 months in advance, to give guests enough time to plan their travels and RSVP.
To get the timing right check out our guide on When to Send Wedding Invitations.
Mistake #3: Incorrect or Missing RSVP Details
Not providing clear instructions for RSVPs is another common error. Be sure to include a clear deadline for RSVPs (typically 2-4 weeks before the wedding date) and provide multiple ways for guests to respond, whether by mail or a digital RSVP option. Double-check that you’ve included return postage for mailed RSVPs and that the RSVP card includes spaces for dietary restrictions or guest preferences, if needed. You can also include this information on your wedding website as long as you include the URL on your invite.
Get the details right with Shutterfly’s collection of RSVP cards.
Mistake #4: Forgetting Key Information
Wedding invitations need to convey more than just the date and venue. It’s essential to provide all the necessary details, such as the dress code, start time, and location specifics. For ceremonies held at nontraditional venues or those that are difficult to find, including directions or a wedding website link can be incredibly helpful.
Mistake #5: Typos and Spelling Errors
Nothing detracts from an elegant wedding invitation more than a typo or misspelled word. Carefully proofread your invitations multiple times and consider having a friend or family member review them as well. Pay special attention to names, addresses, and the correct spelling of formal titles, such as “honor” vs. “honour” depending on the style you’re going for.
Mistake #6: Not Including Return Addresses
When mailing your invitations, it’s important to include a return address on both the outer envelope and the RSVP envelope. This ensures that any undelivered invites make their way back to you and allows guests to easily return their RSVP cards. Adding return address labels or printing directly on the envelope can make this step easier and more polished.
Customize wedding address labels that complement your invite’s design.
Mistake #7: Choosing the Wrong Paper or Printing Style
Your wedding invitations are a reflection of your theme and style, so make sure the materials and printing choices match the tone of your event. Opting for cheap paper can diminish the overall look of your invite, while choosing the wrong printing technique (like using digital printing for a more formal event) can affect its presentation. Choose quality cardstock or specialty paper and consider professional printing options, such as foil stamping or letterpress, for a high-end finish.
Mistake #8: Overcomplicating the Design
While it’s tempting to choose an elaborate design, it’s important to ensure the invite remains readable and clear. Overly intricate fonts, crowded layouts, or a lack of contrast between text and background can make your invitation hard to read. Prioritize clarity, simplicity, and elegance, and make sure the essential details (like the names, date, and location) stand out.
Browse Shutterfly’s vast assortment of wedding invitations available in unique themes and design styles.
Mistake #9: Forgetting to Include Stamps for RSVP Cards
Failing to include postage on RSVP envelopes is a simple yet common oversight. If you’re providing physical RSVP cards, make sure to add the correct amount of postage so your guests can easily send them back. For convenience and to boost response rates, consider offering both mail-in and online RSVP options.
Mistake #10: Not Accounting for Extra Postage
Some wedding invitations, especially those with multiple inserts or unique designs (like square or oversized cards), require extra postage. Before sending them out, take a fully assembled invitation to your local post office to confirm the correct postage. This will prevent your invitations from being returned due to insufficient postage.
Mistake #11: Ordering Too Few Invitations
It’s always a good idea to order more invitations than you think you’ll need. Extra invitations allow for last-minute guest additions, keepsakes, or replacements for any that get lost in the mail. A good rule of thumb is to order 10-15% more than your guest list count.
Mistake #12: Not Having Addresses Ready in Advance
One of the most time-consuming tasks in sending wedding invitations is gathering addresses. Waiting until the last minute can cause unnecessary stress. To save time, make sure you start compiling your guest list and collecting addresses early. Use tools like Shutterfly’s online address book to store and organize your contacts. It makes sending your invitations easier and ensures you don’t miss any important details. Having everything prepared in advance lets you focus on other aspects of your wedding planning without the rush.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of your special day, so make sure they’re flawless by avoiding these common mistakes. From timing to design, taking the time to plan and review each detail will ensure your invites are as perfect as the day itself. By paying attention to these potential pitfalls, you’ll be able to send beautiful, mistake-free wedding invitations that your guests will love and that truly represent your wedding day vision.
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