Wedding Communications Part 1

With all the different events and announcements that go into a wedding, it is difficult for some couples to know how to properly go about dealing with everything. As far as wedding communication, there is a clear and concise difference between each facet, which can include engagement announcements, save-the-dates, wedding invitations, and wedding announcements. With just four things mentioned here, it can become quite confusing as to when each one should go out or even be used.

The engagement announcement is probably the easiest one to figure out. The way these work is that the couple becomes engaged and then they spread this information to their family and friends. These announcements can be done quickly and without the stigma of having to invite recipients to the wedding. Engagement announcements can be sent out well before a wedding is even planned (a note on the card can mention that no date has been set) to individuals, done through email, printed in the local newspaper, or even on a blog!

The save-the-date announcement is the next in the typical series of wedding-related communications. The save-the-date announcement is not the engagement announcement, as it specifically states the date of the wedding. However, the save-the-date announcement is also different from the wedding invitation because it does not include the venue, time, or reception information. It is simply meant to provide information to the invited guests about the date of the wedding and that they can expect an invitation shortly. It is advisable that couples send save-the- date announcements to only those guests that are invited to the wedding.

The confusion generally comes when determining the difference between the wedding invitation and the wedding announcement. It is important to understand that the wedding invitation is sent 4 to 6 weeks before the event to those guests expected to attend the ceremony. The wedding invitation typically includes various elements of information including who is hosting the event, who is getting married, the date, the time, the location of the wedding ceremony, and the location of the reception. The wedding invitation should always include an RSVP card. This allows guests to indicate whether they will attend the wedding or not. Invitations also commonly include hotel information, directions, and suggested things to do in the area.

Read Part 2

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