Hi friends! Wedding websites have become a staple in the wedding process these days, but many couples ask me what the purpose of a website is when you’re already sending out an invitation with the 411 on your big day. There’s actually a lot of crucial information your guests need that usually isn’t included on the invitation. Unless you want to spend the days leading up to your wedding fielding countless questions via phone calls, texts and emails, use a wedding website to efficiently communicate some of these details.
Here’s what you should consider including:
- The itinerary. You’ll include the basic date and time on your invitation, but now’s your chance to get more detailed.
- Travel & accommodations. Out-of-town guests will appreciate details on the closest airport, recommended modes of transportation and hotel suggestions (especially if you have a room block with a reduced rate). Any nuances about traffic are also helpful here.
- Directions to the ceremony, reception and any other related events. Include specific information for those that are driving or taking public transportation (if that’s an option). If you’re providing any shuttles, include that info as well.
- Local attractions and activities. Another detail that’s great for those out-of-towners. Provide some suggestions for fun restaurants, museums, or other local activities they can do on their downtime.
- Registry information. It’s considered improper to make any reference to gifts on your invitation, so your wedding website is the perfect place for this. Don’t forget to include a link!
- Attire guidelines. Women, especially, will appreciate these specifics! In addition to noting whether the event is formal, casual or something in between, include details about the weather and location. Guests will want to know if the festivities will be outdoors or if the ceremony will be on the beach so they can select proper attire.
- Your wedding hashtag. Only if you’re comfortable with your photos ending up on social media, of course. If you’re planning an unplugged ceremony and/or reception, your website is a good place to note that – in addition to including signage at the wedding.
- Your love story. Have fun with your website! Post at least one photo of you as a couple (a great chance to put those engagement photos to use) and consider including some fun details about how you met, the proposal, or even some fun facts. It keeps the website more personal and gets guests excited about the big day.
If you’re uncomfortable with the world having access to all this information, most wedding websites have a password protection option. Just remember to relay that password to your guests – your save the dates are a great place for this.
xox,
Mindy
Header image via Flickr/Amancay Maahs
