THE ULTIMATE WEDDING GUEST COMMUNICATION GUIDE

By: Erika Williams

Whether they are part of your wedding party or only attending, communication with your guests is important throughout your wedding planning process. Here are some of the best ways to ensure everyone is informed and on the same page.

Save the Dates:

Your save-the-dates will be the first wedding announcement and will include the initial details about your wedding weekend, sent out to everyone you plan to invite. They are typically mailed 8 to 12 months or 4 to 8 months before the wedding, depending on how far or close your wedding location is to the majority of your guests. You can also do this digitally to save money.

Wedding Website:

Wedding websites keep all guests up to date on important information without the hassle of sending multiple texts or emails. It can include your registry, the colors you would like guests to (or not to) wear, important updates, and ceremony details. To ensure guests receive the website information, include a card with a link and QR code in your save-the-date.

Invitations & RSVPs:

Invitations showcase the finalized wedding details and usually include an RSVP form. Guests should receive them at least four to six weeks before your ceremony. RSVP’s can also be done digitally.

Other Ways to Communicate:

– Email: A good way to send more specific or detailed updates about your wedding to everyone at once. These updates include but are not limited to weekend itineraries, RSVP reminders, logistics, and transportation information (if applicable). You can ask for email in your RSVP or use an online system like postable.com to gather all if your information early on.

– Text messaging: A way to reach out to individuals to answer any quick questions.

– Phone Calls: Best for only urgent or unplanned situations, such as last-minute changes, to ensure immediate notification to guests.

Text My Guests:

TextMyGuests is an optional messaging service that is accessible on smartphones, laptops, or any phone that supports SMS or MMS. It lets you keep all guests notified with scheduled texts and real-time updates. As the subscriber, you can create lists for groups, such as wedding parties, guests, and immediate family. Guests receive all messages you send, but their replies go only to you—not the entire group. There’s no app required, and guests can text you directly through your unique event phone number!

With the full-service planning option through Southern Bash, we create a wedding party packet for your wedding party to keep the group informed for the entire weekend.

Hope this helps with your guest communication and happy planning!