Destination Wedding Invitation Guide

Destination weddings are all about creating lasting memories in stunning locations with the people you love most. It’s not just about tying the knot; it’s about turning your wedding into an experience for everyone involved! Choosing a unique spot like a charming coastal town or a picturesque vineyard means you and your guests get to share an adventure.

Given that we are seeing more and more couples opt for a destination wedding, we wanted to highlight some of the special considerations involved in planning your invitations. Whether you’re planning a tropical beach wedding or a romantic European getaway, we’ll guide you through the process and ensure everything goes smoothly. Read on to discover the essential elements and timeline for destination wedding invitations!

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Special Considerations for Destination Wedding Invitations

When it comes to the wording, timeline, RSVP deadline, and tone of your destination wedding invitations, there are some differences compared to local wedding invitations. The invites should convey the excitement of the adventure while still providing all the essential information.

Here are some of the special considerations for destination wedding invitations vs. local wedding invitations:

	Destination Wedding Invitations	Local Wedding Invitations
Wording	Often include more travel details like welcome events, transportation info, hotel blocks, and a wedding weekend overview. May clarify passport requirements or weather considerations.	Focuses mainly on ceremony and reception details. Fewer logistics are needed and the wording can stay more streamlined and traditional.
Timeline to Send	Sent earlier due to travel planning. Most couples send invitations 4 to 6 months before the wedding. Save the dates are typically sent 8 to 12 months ahead.	Standard timing works well. Invitations usually go out 3 to 4 months before the wedding. Save the dates are often sent 6 to 8 months ahead.
RSVP Deadline	Earlier RSVP date so couples can finalize headcount for travel, hotel, and transportation. Many set the deadline 2 to 3 months before the wedding.	A shorter reply window works because travel is minimal. Most RSVP dates are 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding.
Tone	Often more casual, warm, or celebratory since the entire event feels like an intimate getaway. Some couples include personal notes.	Can be formal, classic, modern, or anything that fits the event. Tone is usually tied closely to venue and aesthetic rather than travel.

This stunning custom trifold wedding events card informed guests of important details while setting the tone for a storybook wedding at a French château.

What Should a Destination Wedding Invitation Include?

Details Card

For a destination wedding, a details card can be a lifesaver for your guests, providing essential information that goes beyond the basics included in the invitation. A details card ensures that your guests have all the information they need in one place, reducing the likelihood of confusion and multiple back-and-forth communications. It helps your guests feel prepared and excited about the trip.

• When to Include
  • With the wedding invitation
• Details to Include
  • Accommodation options, transportation info, itinerary of events, local attractions

Wedding Website Information

Your wedding website can be continually updated with any new information or changes, making it an invaluable resource for your guests. It can also include local tips, FAQs, and a contact form for any questions. This is especially helpful for a destination wedding where guests might be unfamiliar with the location and logistics involved.

• When to Launch
  • As soon as you send save the dates, your wedding website should be live!
• Details to Include
  • Travel information, accommodation details, itinerary, dress code, and RSVP options. Many couples also put information about local activities and eateries, since some guests do turn a destination wedding into a vacation.

Destination Wedding RSVP Requirements

Getting RSVPs back on time is even more crucial for destination weddings. You’ll need accurate headcounts for travel arrangements, accommodations, and any group activities planned. A clear and early RSVP deadline helps you finalize numbers for the venue, caterers, and any transportation or accommodation bookings. It also allows you to follow up with guests who haven’t responded, ensuring you can make necessary adjustments in time.

• RSVP Deadline
  • 2-3 months before the wedding.
• Details to Include
  • Return address, RSVP card, and/or online RSVP option.

Save the Dates for Destination Weddings

Your save the dates are crucial for destination weddings because they give your guests plenty of time to book flights and secure their lodging. These cards often include extra details, such as travel information and/or a link to your wedding website.

Timeline:

• When to Send
  • 8-12+ months before the wedding
• Details to Include
  • Wedding date, destination, and a note that a formal invitation will follow
• Wedding Website
  • Including the wedding website on your save the date is highly recommended. This allows guests to find all the necessary information in one place. Wedding websites will typically need to be set up earlier for destination weddings than for local weddings.

Thank You Cards

Thank you cards are the final touch in your wedding stationery suite and an important way to show appreciation to your guests. Sending thank you cards promptly shows your appreciation and leaves a lasting positive impression. It’s a thoughtful gesture that acknowledges the effort your guests made to attend your destination wedding.

• When to Send
  • Within 3 months after the wedding
• Details to Include
  • Personal message, gratitude for their attendance and any gifts received

Planning a destination wedding involves unique considerations, especially when it comes to wedding stationery and timelines. At Heather Paperie, we understand these nuances and are here to guide you through the process. Our goal is to help you create a cohesive and beautiful wedding invitation suite that sets the tone for your special day and ensures your guests have all the information they need.

For more information on how we can assist you with your destination wedding invitations, reach out to us today. We’re here to make your wedding planning journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

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