What to include on invitations for a destination wedding
Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular as couples look to create unique and unforgettable experiences for their guests. Whether you're getting married on a tropical beach, in a picturesque countryside, or in a bustling city, there are many ways to make your invitations truly special and reflective of the location of your wedding.
When I work on invitation design for destination weddings, I always take a deep dive into the venue and local area and try to reflect elements of this in the illustrations and design work. I want to create something that is completely original and stunning for your wedding - but also make sure it ticks all the practical boxes, so that guests can easily plan their trip, relax and enjoy themselves. Read on for a few of my tips for creating your invitations for abroad weddings, and a few of my favourite examples from past bespoke wedding invitation projects.
Save the Dates
For destination weddings, it is important to send out your save the dates as early as possible - i.e. as soon as you know your date and venue. This will give your guests ample time to plan for the trip and make arrangements for accommodation and travel. If the wedding is over a few days, make this clear. Additionally, you can include some basic information about accommodation and travel options on the save the date to help guests plan accordingly.
Bespoke illustrations of safari animals in muted sage green tones perfectly set the scene for this South African wedding at a luxury game reserve.
Timeline of Events
Now, on to the invitations. One element that is great to include for destination weddings is the timeline of events. For example, you may want to include information about a welcome dinner, farewell brunch, or any local activities that you have planned for your guests to join. Include timing, location and dress codes if appropriate. This will give them a sense of what to expect and allow them to plan their trip accordingly.
Designed for a three day Santorini wedding, this little fold-out wedding timeline tucked perfectly inside the invitation suite and featured bright watercolour paintings of each event in complimentary colours.
Map Inserts
Another aspect to consider is providing your guests with maps for the local area. This can include recommendations for things to do and see in the area, as well as information about local taxi numbers and public transport options. This will make it easier for your guests to navigate the area and make the most of their time there.
This map of Sintra in Portugal features the three wedding venues (welcome wine tasting, the wedding venue, and a farewell beach party on the final day) as well as a couple of local landmarks and the couple’s favourite local cafe.
Accommodation for Guests
Accommodation is also an important factor to consider. You'll want to let your guests know whether they have their own accommodation or if they need to book their own.
For example, I love these illustrated key cards which were including in the invitations for immediate family and bridal party to guide them to their rooms, with their room details, and check in and out timing on the reverse.
Language
Another point to consider is language. If you have guests coming from different countries, it's a nice touch to provide multiple versions of the invitation for different guests. Make sure your stationery designer knows this early on so they can factor it into print costs and timing.
You may only wish to provide a translation of certain phrases in the local language, like this menu the title of each course (Antipasti, Primi, Secondi, Dolci) in Italian.
Cultural Considerations and Dress Codes
Cultural considerations are also important. It is a lovely touch to inform your guests about any local cultural considerations or marriage traditions that they may not be aware of. If you're expecting guests to wear traditional dress and you’re inviting people who may not be familiar with this, you can add illustrations to suggest certain styles or just add detailed descriptions to your information card.
Embrace the jigsaw!
Destination weddings are a great way to create unique and unforgettable experiences for your guests. But sometimes planning a destination wedding feels like a bit of a jigsaw puzzle, with multiple events to juggle, and different guests invited to different days, coming from different countries, perhaps even speaking different languages. I am a wedding stationery designer and I love design & organisation in equal parts. If you want artistic illustrated wedding stationery that looks beautiful and gets all your guests excited for their trip - while also getting them to the right venue at the right time - then we might be a good fit.
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