Your wedding website should include a warm welcome message, event details with times and locations, travel information, RSVP instructions, and optional registry links1. The welcome message sets your tone in 2-3 sentences, event details provide practical logistics, travel information helps out-of-town guests plan accommodations, RSVP instructions clarify how to respond by your deadline, and registry information appears discreetly for guests who wish to give gifts. This structure covers essential information while maintaining a welcoming tone that reflects your relationship and wedding style.
Wedding websites have become essential planning tools, with the majority of couples now creating dedicated sites to share information with guests. Your website serves as the central hub for all wedding information, reducing questions and helping guests prepare. The wording you choose creates expectations about formality, establishes your personality as a couple, and ensures guests have the information they need. This guide provides copy-ready examples for every section of your wedding website, organized by formality level and situation.
Welcome Message Wording
Your welcome message appears first and sets the tone for your entire website1. This section should be warm, brief, and establish expectations. Keep welcome messages to 2-3 sentences maximum—guests want quick orientation before finding specific information. The tone can be slightly more casual than your wedding invitations while still matching your overall wedding formality.
Formal Welcome
"We are delighted to announce our upcoming marriage and warmly invite you to share in our celebration. Please explore this site for all the details about our special day, including accommodation options and schedule information."
"Mr. Robert Smith and Ms. Elizabeth Brown request the pleasure of your company at their wedding ceremony and reception. This website contains everything you need to know about our celebration on June 15, 2026."
Semi-Formal Welcome
"We're so excited to celebrate our wedding with you! Here you'll find all the important details about our big day—from ceremony times to hotel options. We can't wait to see you there."
"Thank you for being part of our journey. We've created this site to share all the information you'll need for our wedding weekend. Please explore and reach out with any questions."
Casual Welcome
"We're getting married! We're thrilled to celebrate with our favorite people. Check out all the details below and get ready to party with us on June 15th."
"Let's make it official! We've put together everything you need to know about our wedding day. Scroll down for all the important info (and some cute photos of us)."
Romantic Welcome
"After years of love and laughter, we're ready to say 'I do.' Join us as we begin this beautiful chapter surrounded by the people who mean the most to us. All the details are here."
"Our love story continues with you as our witnesses. This site holds all the information for our celebration—we're honored to share this moment with you."
Minimalist Welcome
"June 15, 2026. Join us. Details below."
"Elizabeth & William. One celebration. All the information you need is here."
Our Story Section Wording
The "Our Story" section adds personality and context for guests who may not know your relationship history1. Keep this section to 150-200 words maximum—enough to share meaningful moments without losing reader attention. Focus on genuine highlights: how you met, when you knew this relationship was special, and your proposal. Avoid excessive detail about daily life or inside jokes that exclude readers.
Classic Love Story
"We met at a mutual friend's dinner party in Boston in 2019. What started as witty banter over appetizers quickly became hours of conversation that continued long after the other guests left. Our first date—a walk through the Public Garden that turned into dinner, then dessert, then coffee—lasted nearly eight hours. Three years later, Robert proposed during a weekend trip to the place where we first met. We've been planning this celebration ever since and couldn't be more excited to share it with you."
Workplace Romance
"Working at the same advertising agency for two years, we'd exchanged countless emails without really connecting. That changed during the company retreat in 2020, when we were randomly paired for a team-building exercise. We discovered shared interests, similar humor, and an easy chemistry that surprised us both. Our first official date happened the week we returned. When Elizabeth accepted a position in our London office, Robert didn't hesitate—he requested a transfer and proposed three months later at the agency where our story began."
Long-Distance Story
"We matched on a dating app in 2018, not realizing we lived 200 miles apart. Our first date required a train journey, but the conversation made every mile worthwhile. For two years, we alternated weekend visits, accumulating frequent traveler points and phone bills that made our friends laugh. The distance tested us and proved what we already knew—this was worth every sacrifice. William finally relocated in 2022, and we've never taken proximity for granted. We're celebrating not just our love, but finally being in the same place."
Second Marriage Story
"Life brought us together in unexpected ways. Both of us had experienced love and loss, and we weren't looking for anything serious when we met at a community volunteering event in 2021. But friendship evolved into something deeper, built on mutual respect, honest communication, and genuine joy in each other's company. Our children adore each other, our families have blended beautifully, and we're ready to make it official. This celebration honors our past while embracing our future together."
Funny Story
"Robert likes to say he swept Elizabeth off her feet at the bookstore in 2019. Elizabeth prefers to remember how he literally tripped over her bag, knocked over an entire display of travel guides, and tried to apologize while picking up books. Either way, his embarrassment was charming, her laughter was contagious, and somehow it worked. Four years, countless book recommendations, and one very memorable proposal later (yes, it involved a bookstore), we're making it official."
Childhood Sweethearts
"We've known each other since Mrs. Patterson's third-grade class, though Robert didn't notice Elizabeth until high school when we were lab partners in chemistry. Turns out we had chemistry in more ways than one. We dated through senior year, stayed together through university despite attending different schools, and supported each other through early careers. Fifteen years after that first lab assignment, we're ready to make our partnership official and permanent."
Event Details Wording
Event details provide essential logistics: dates, times, locations, and dress codes1. This section must be crystal clear and mobile-friendly since guests often reference it while traveling. Include full addresses for GPS navigation, not just venue names. Specify exact start times and whether guests should arrive early. For UK weddings, note the distinction between "wedding breakfast" (the formal meal following the ceremony) and "reception" (the entire celebration including evening festivities)2.
Ceremony Wording
"Join us as we exchange vows at St. Michael's Cathedral on Saturday, June 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM. Please arrive by 3:45 PM to be seated before the ceremony begins. The cathedral is located at 456 Church Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02108. Parking is available in the adjacent lot, accessible from Beacon Street."
"Our ceremony will take place at Riverside Gardens (789 Garden Lane, Austin, TX 78701) on June 15, 2026. The celebration begins at 5:30 PM with a cocktail hour overlooking the river, followed by the ceremony at 6:00 PM. Please join us for drinks before we say 'I do.'"
"We'll say our vows on the beach at Ocean View Resort, 123 Coastal Highway, Malibu, CA 90265. The ceremony starts at 4:00 PM on June 15, 2026. Please remove shoes before walking onto the sand—we'll have a basket at the entrance. Beach chairs will be provided for all guests."
Reception Wording
"Following the ceremony, join us for dinner, dancing, and celebration at The Grand Ballroom (321 Celebration Avenue, Boston, MA 02109). Cocktails begin at 6:00 PM, dinner service at 7:00 PM, and dancing continues until midnight. The ballroom is a five-minute walk from the cathedral, or complimentary shuttle service will be provided."
"The wedding breakfast will be served immediately following the ceremony at Willowbrook Manor, with speeches, cake cutting, and entertainment. The formal meal concludes at 8:00 PM. Evening guests are invited to join us from 8:30 PM onward for the reception, including dancing, drinks, and light refreshments." [Note: UK-style wording]
"Celebrate with us after the ceremony at our reception in the vineyard pavilion. Enjoy lawn games and cocktails from 5:00 PM, followed by a farm-to-table dinner at 6:30 PM. Local wine and craft beer will flow freely. Dancing under the stars begins at 8:00 PM and continues as long as the music plays."
Multi-Day Event Wording
"Join us for a weekend of celebration:
Friday, June 14, 2026 Welcome Reception, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM The Harbor Hotel Terrace, 555 Waterfront Drive Casual attire | Optional event for early arrivals
Saturday, June 15, 2026 Wedding Ceremony, 4:00 PM St. Michael's Cathedral, 456 Church Street Cocktail attire
Reception immediately following, 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM The Grand Ballroom, 321 Celebration Avenue
Sunday, June 16, 2026 Farewell Brunch, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM The Harbor Hotel Restaurant Casual attire | Optional event"
Virtual/Hybrid Event Wording
"We're gathering both in person and virtually! The ceremony will be livestreamed on June 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM EST for guests who cannot join us in person. The livestream link will be sent via email one week before the wedding. In-person guests, please see ceremony and reception details below. Virtual guests, we'll miss hugging you but are thrilled you can witness this moment from wherever you are."
Travel and Accommodation Information
Travel information helps out-of-town guests plan efficiently and reduces individual questions1. Include hotel room blocks with booking deadlines and group codes, directions from airports or train stations, parking availability, and public transportation options. For destination weddings, add local attraction suggestions and weather expectations.
Hotel Block Wording
"We've reserved blocks of rooms at the following hotels. Please book by May 15, 2026, to receive our group rate.
The Harbor Hotel (5-minute walk to venues) 555 Waterfront Drive, Boston, MA 02110 Group rate: $189/night Booking code: SMITH-BROWN2026 Reservation phone: (617) 555-0100 [Direct booking link]
Downtown Suites (10-minute drive to venues) 777 Main Street, Boston, MA 02111 Group rate: $149/night Booking code: SWED0615 Reservation phone: (617) 555-0200 [Direct booking link]"
Transportation Wording
"From Logan International Airport: The wedding venues are approximately 25 minutes from the airport by taxi or rideshare (estimated $40-50). The Silver Line and Blue Line provide public transit access to downtown Boston.
Parking: Complimentary parking is available at both the cathedral and reception venue. The cathedral lot entrance is on Beacon Street; the ballroom offers valet parking with entrance on Celebration Avenue.
Shuttle Service: We're providing complimentary shuttle service between The Harbor Hotel and all wedding events on June 15. Shuttles depart the hotel at 3:15 PM for the ceremony and return from the reception at 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM."
Local Attractions Wording
"Exploring Boston: If you're arriving early or staying after the wedding, we recommend:
- Freedom Trail walking tour (2.5 miles of American history)
- Fenway Park tour or Red Sox game
- Boston Public Garden and Common
- North End for Italian food and Mike's Pastry
- Newbury Street shopping
- Museum of Fine Arts
Weather: Mid-June temperatures average 70-75°F (21-24°C). Bring a light jacket for evening outdoor portions of our reception."
Destination Wedding Travel Info
"Getting to Tuscany: The nearest airport is Florence Airport (FLR), 45 minutes from Villa Montefiore. Pisa International Airport (PSA) is 90 minutes away with more flight options. We recommend renting a car for flexibility exploring the region, though we'll provide shuttle service for wedding events.
Accommodation: We've secured room blocks at three nearby properties ranging from luxury villa suites to charming agriturismi. See our Accommodations page for full details and booking information.
Visa Requirements: US citizens need a valid passport but not a visa for stays under 90 days. Check requirements for your nationality well in advance."
Registry and Gift Wording
Gift information should be gracious, not demanding1. Many couples feel uncomfortable addressing gifts, but providing clear guidance actually helps guests. Always emphasize that attendance is the priority, then offer registry information for those who wish to give. Australian couples often use "wishing wells" (cash gift collection) instead of traditional registries, with 89% preferring monetary contributions3.
Traditional Registry Wording
"Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift we could ask for. For those who have kindly inquired, we've registered at [Store Name] and [Online Registry]. You can find our registries using the links below."
"We're fortunate to have everything we need for our home. If you wish to honor us with a gift, we've created a small registry at [Store Name] for a few special items. Your love and support mean more than any present."
Honeymoon Fund Wording
"Having lived together for five years, we're blessed with a full home and full hearts. If you'd like to give a gift, contributions to our honeymoon in Italy would be gratefully appreciated. We'll think of you as we explore Tuscany and toast to new adventures."
"In lieu of traditional gifts, we're saving for our dream honeymoon exploring New Zealand. Contributions toward experiences—like a scenic helicopter flight or wine tasting tour—would help us create memories we'll treasure forever. A honeymoon fund link is available below, but your presence is truly the only gift we need."
"We're planning the adventure of a lifetime: three weeks exploring Southeast Asia. If you'd like to contribute to our honeymoon fund, you'll be helping us create unforgettable experiences. We'll share photos and stories when we return!"
No Gifts Preferred Wording
"Your love, laughter, and presence at our celebration are all we wish for. Please, no gifts. Your company is the greatest present you could give us."
"We're getting married later in life and truly have everything we need. We respectfully request no gifts—just bring yourselves and your dancing shoes."
Cash/Money Wording
"We've been asked about gift preferences. Having recently purchased our first home, we're saving for renovations and future plans. If you wish to give a gift, a contribution toward these goals would be deeply appreciated, though your presence at our wedding is the only thing we truly need."
"We know it's not traditional, but we'd be grateful for contributions toward our down payment fund rather than physical gifts. A wishing well will be available at the reception for cards. Your support as we start this new chapter means everything." [Australian-style wording]
Charity Wording
"In lieu of wedding gifts, we're asking guests to consider donations to [Charity Name], an organization close to our hearts. [Brief sentence about why this charity matters to you.] Donation information is available below. Your generosity in supporting this cause would honor us deeply."
"We're fortunate to have full lives and a full home. Rather than gifts, we'd be touched if you'd contribute to [Charity Name] in our honor. This organization [does X] and reflects values we hold dear as we begin our marriage."
Combined Registry and Cash
"We've registered for a few items at [Store Name] and also welcome contributions toward our home renovation fund. Whatever you choose—or choose not to give—we're simply grateful to celebrate with you."
RSVP Section Wording
RSVP information must be clear about deadline, method, and any additional information you need from guests1. Specify whether guests are responding through your website, by card, email, or phone. If you need meal selections, dietary restrictions, or song requests, ask directly. Set your RSVP deadline 3-4 weeks before the wedding to finalize catering numbers and seating arrangements.
Standard RSVP Wording
"Please let us know if you can join us by May 15, 2026. Click the RSVP button above to respond through our website. We need a final headcount for catering, so please respond even if you cannot attend. We can't wait to celebrate with you!"
"Kindly respond by May 15, 2026, using the RSVP form on this website. Please include all guests listed on your invitation. If you have questions about your invitation, contact us at rsvp@elizabethandwilliam.com."
RSVP with Meal Selection
"Please respond by May 15, 2026, and select your entrée preference:
- Herb-crusted salmon with lemon beurre blanc
- Grilled filet mignon with red wine reduction
- Wild mushroom risotto (vegetarian)
Indicate any dietary restrictions or allergies in the notes section. We'll make sure everyone is well fed!"
RSVP with Special Requests
"Please RSVP by May 15, 2026, using our website form. Let us know:
- Will you attend? (Please respond yes or no)
- Entrée selection (see menu options above)
- Any dietary restrictions or allergies
- Song requests for our reception playlist
- Whether you'll need shuttle service from The Harbor Hotel"
Casual RSVP Wording
"Can you make it? Let us know by May 15! Just hit the RSVP button and tell us you're coming (we really hope you are). Choose your dinner option while you're at it—the food's going to be amazing."
"We need a headcount by May 15 so our caterer doesn't panic. RSVP on this site and let us know what you'd like to eat. Can't wait to see you there!"
Phone/Email RSVP Wording
"Please respond by May 15, 2026: Email: rsvp@elizabethandwilliam.com Phone: Elizabeth's mobile (617) 555-0123
Please include the names of all attending guests and any dietary requirements. We prefer email responses to keep everything organized, but call if you have questions!"
FAQ Section Wording
A comprehensive FAQ section reduces individual questions and clarifies common concerns1. Address dress code, plus-one policies, children, parking, photography, gifts, accommodations, and schedule timing. Be direct and kind—guests appreciate clear information over vague guidance that leaves them uncertain.
Dress Code FAQ
"What should I wear? Our wedding is cocktail attire. For guests, this means suits or sport coats for men and cocktail dresses or dressy separates for women. The ceremony is indoors with air conditioning; the reception includes outdoor terrace access. Temperatures will be warm—dress accordingly."
"What's the dress code? Black tie optional. We'd love to see you in formal evening wear, but a dark suit is equally appropriate. The reception includes both indoor and outdoor spaces with elegant décor. Wear your finest and be comfortable."
"What should I wear to a beach ceremony? Beach formal: sundresses or light suits in breathable fabrics. The ceremony takes place on sand—skip the stilettos and opt for wedges, flats, or go barefoot. Temperatures will be around 75°F with ocean breeze."
Plus-One FAQ
"Can I bring a guest? We'd love to accommodate everyone, but due to venue capacity, we're only able to invite guests specifically named on your invitation. If your invitation is addressed to you 'and guest,' please feel free to bring someone. Check your invitation or contact us if you're unsure."
"Are plus-ones allowed? If you're in a relationship we know about, your partner is absolutely invited (check your invitation addressing). For single guests, we've provided plus-ones where our budget and space allow. Your invitation will clearly indicate if you may bring a guest."
Children Policy FAQ
"Are children invited? We love your little ones, but our wedding will be an adults-only celebration. We hope this gives parents a well-deserved evening to relax, enjoy, and dance without bedtime schedules. We've arranged babysitting recommendations at the hotel for families traveling from out of town."
"Can I bring my kids? Absolutely! We're planning a family-friendly celebration with activities for children during the reception. Kids meals will be available—just let us know how many children are attending when you RSVP so we can plan accordingly."
"Is this a kid-friendly wedding? Children are welcome at the ceremony. For the reception, we've arranged childcare at The Harbor Hotel from 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM for children 12 and under. Details and booking information are available on our Accommodations page. Many parents appreciate dancing without worrying about bedtimes!"
Parking and Transportation FAQ
"Where should I park? Complimentary parking is available at both venues. The cathedral lot entrance is on Beacon Street (50 spaces). The Grand Ballroom offers valet parking with entrance on Celebration Avenue. We recommend rideshare services if you plan to enjoy the open bar—safety first!"
"Is there transportation between venues? Yes! We're providing complimentary shuttles from The Harbor Hotel to the ceremony (departing 3:15 PM) and back from the reception (departing 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM). The venues are also within walking distance (0.3 miles) if the weather is pleasant."
Photography FAQ
"Can I take photos during the ceremony? We kindly request an unplugged ceremony. Please silence phones and refrain from taking photos during our vows—we've hired a professional photographer to capture these moments. After the ceremony concludes, snap all the photos you'd like! We'll share the professional photos within eight weeks."
"Should I post photos on social media? Share away! We love seeing your perspectives from our celebration. We'll be using the hashtag #SmithBrownWedding if you'd like to tag your photos so we can find them easily. Just please honor our unplugged ceremony request during the vows."
Gift FAQ
"Where are you registered? We've registered at [Store Name] and [Online Registry]. Links are available on our Registry page. Your presence is truly the most important gift, but for those who have kindly asked, we've selected a few items we'd love for our home."
"Do you prefer gifts or cash? We're grateful for anything you choose to give—or choose not to give. We've registered for some items, but contributions toward our honeymoon fund are equally appreciated. Most importantly, we just want you at our celebration."
Accommodation FAQ
"Where should I stay? We've reserved room blocks at The Harbor Hotel and Downtown Suites with special rates available until May 15. Both offer complimentary shuttle service to our wedding events. Full details, booking codes, and direct links are on our Travel page."
"When should I book my hotel? As soon as possible! Our room blocks are available until May 15, 2026, but rooms may sell out before then since it's wedding season in Boston. Book early to guarantee our group rate."
Schedule FAQ
"What time should I arrive? Please arrive at the cathedral by 3:45 PM to be seated before our 4:00 PM ceremony. The ceremony will last approximately 30 minutes, followed by cocktails and reception immediately after. Plan to stay until at least 10:00 PM for dinner, speeches, and dancing!"
"How long will the reception last? The reception runs from 6:00 PM to midnight. Dinner service begins at 7:00 PM, speeches around 8:00 PM, and dancing continues until the music stops. The evening will flow naturally—you're welcome to stay as long as you'd like!"
Regional Terminology Differences
Wedding terminology varies significantly by region23. Understanding these differences helps you write clearly for your specific audience and avoid confusion for international guests. UK terminology often differs from US usage, while Australian weddings blend British traditions with unique local customs.
| Term Category | United States | United Kingdom | Australia | Usage Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Formal meal | Reception dinner | Wedding breakfast | Reception / Wedding breakfast | UK "breakfast" means first meal after ceremony, regardless of time2 |
| Full celebration | Reception | Reception / Wedding breakfast + reception | Reception | UK distinguishes formal meal from evening party |
| Gift registry | Gift registry / Wedding registry | Gift list | Wishing well / Gift registry | 89% of Australian couples prefer cash wishing wells3 |
| Rehearsal event | Rehearsal dinner | Wedding eve party / Rehearsal dinner | Rehearsal dinner | UK term less common, concept exists |
| Bar service | Open bar / Hosted bar | Free bar / Paid bar | Open bar | UK "free bar" = hosted, "paid bar" = cash bar |
| Pre-wedding party (women) | Bachelorette party / Bridal shower | Hen party / Hen do | Hens party | Regional names for same concept |
| Pre-wedding party (men) | Bachelor party | Stag party / Stag do | Bucks party | Regional names for same concept |
| Ceremony officiant | Officiant / Minister / Celebrant | Celebrant / Registrar / Minister | Celebrant | Official terminology varies by ceremony type |
| Gift box | Card box | Wishing well / Card box | Wishing well | Australian wishing well traditionally for cash gifts |
When writing for mixed-nationality guest lists, consider these strategies:
Use universal terms: "Celebration" and "reception" work across all English-speaking regions. "Wedding breakfast" may confuse American guests expecting an morning event2.
Clarify timing explicitly: Instead of relying on terminology, state exact times and sequence. "Following the 4:00 PM ceremony, join us for dinner at 6:00 PM" is clear regardless of regional vocabulary.
Explain cultural elements: If using region-specific traditions, add brief explanations. "The wedding breakfast (formal meal) begins at 6:00 PM, followed by the evening reception with dancing at 9:00 PM."
Note registry expectations: If you're having an Australian-style wishing well but hosting American guests, explain: "We've set up a wishing well for cards and monetary gifts, though a small gift registry is also available for those who prefer."
Tone Comparison Guide
Your website tone should match your wedding invitation formality while allowing slightly more warmth and personality1. This table compares how the same information changes across formality levels:
| Element | Formal | Semi-Formal | Casual | Ultra-Casual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome greeting | We cordially invite you to celebrate our marriage | Join us to celebrate our wedding | We're getting married—celebrate with us! | We're finally making it official! |
| Story opening | We met at [location] in [year] | Our story began in [year] when we met at [location] | We met at [location] and the rest is history | So this one time at [location]... |
| Event invitation | You are invited to attend our ceremony at [time] | Please join us for our ceremony at [time] | Come party with us at [time] | Be there at [time] or be square |
| RSVP request | Kindly respond by [date] | Please RSVP by [date] | Let us know by [date] if you can make it | Can you come? Tell us by [date]! |
| Dress code | Black tie requested | Cocktail attire | Dress to impress | Come looking sharp |
| Gifts mention | Your presence is gift enough. For those who wish to honor us, we've registered at [store] | No gifts necessary, but we've registered at [store] for those asking | Don't worry about gifts, but here's our registry if you insist | Seriously, no gifts. Just show up. (Fine, here's our registry) |
| Registry intro | For those who have graciously inquired | If you'd like to give a gift | For those who've asked about gifts | Some of you won't take no for an answer |
| Children policy | We respectfully request an adults-only celebration | Our celebration will be adults-only | This one's just for the grown-ups | Leave the kiddos at home—it's party time |
| Dietary needs | Please indicate any dietary requirements when you respond | Let us know about dietary restrictions | Got food allergies? Tell us when you RSVP | If you can't eat something, speak up! |
| Thank you closing | We are honored by your presence and look forward to celebrating with you | Thank you for being part of our special day | Can't wait to celebrate with you all! | Thanks for coming to our party! |
Choose one tone and maintain it throughout your entire website. Switching between formal ceremony descriptions and ultra-casual registry wording creates jarring inconsistency. Your guests should feel the same atmosphere on every page.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Based on wedding etiquette guidelines1, avoid these frequent website wording errors:
Being vague about timing: "Evening reception" doesn't tell guests when to arrive. Specify "7:00 PM" so guests can plan their day.
Overexplaining personal details: Your website isn't your autobiography. Guests don't need to know every detail of your five-year relationship or the complete proposal story with minute-by-minute timeline.
Forgetting mobile users: Over 60% of wedding website traffic comes from mobile devices. Long paragraphs and complex navigation frustrate phone users. Keep sections scannable with clear headings.
Inconsistent tone: Formal ceremony wording followed by "Let's party!!!!" reception language confuses guests about your wedding atmosphere.
Demanding registry gifts: "We've registered at [store] and really need these items" violates etiquette. Always emphasize presence over presents1.
Unclear plus-one policy: "Space is limited" doesn't tell guests whether they can bring someone. Be explicit: "Only guests named on invitations can attend" or "Plus-ones welcome for all single guests."
Missing critical logistics: Beautiful prose about your love story doesn't help guests find parking or know whether children are invited. Prioritize practical information.
Outdated information: Update your website whenever details change. Nothing frustrates guests more than showing up at the wrong time because the website wasn't current.
No offline accommodation: Some guests—particularly older relatives—don't use websites comfortably. Provide essential information in other formats or designate someone to answer questions by phone1.
Website Structure Best Practices
Effective wedding website organization helps guests find information quickly1. Recommend these standard pages:
Essential Pages:
- Home/Welcome (overview and greeting)
- Our Story (brief relationship history)
- Wedding Party (introduce your attendants)
- Events (ceremony and reception details)
- Travel & Stay (hotels and transportation)
- Registry (if applicable)
- RSVP (response form)
- FAQ (common questions)
Optional Pages:
- Photos (engagement pictures, childhood photos)
- Things to Do (local attractions for out-of-town guests)
- Weekend Schedule (for multi-day celebrations)
What NOT to Include:
- Excessive personal details or inside jokes
- Complaints about planning stress or family drama
- Passive-aggressive messages about guests who haven't RSVPed
- Registry information on the home page1
- Detailed cost breakdowns or budget information
- Private family matters or relationship history others wouldn't know
Keep navigation simple with clear page names. Avoid creative labels like "The Big Day" when "Ceremony Details" is clearer. Make your RSVP button prominent and easy to find on every page.
Writing Your Perfect Website
Creating effective wedding website wording starts with defining your audience and tone1. Consider who your guests are—mostly family, mostly friends, mixed ages, international visitors—and write in language that makes everyone feel welcome and informed.
Begin with your welcome message, keeping it to 2-3 sentences that establish tone and direct guests to important information. Write your "Our Story" next, focusing on meaningful highlights in 150-200 words maximum. Draft your event details with complete logistics: dates, times, full addresses, parking information, and dress codes.
Add practical travel information for out-of-town guests, including hotel blocks with booking deadlines and group codes. Create a comprehensive FAQ addressing the questions you've been asked repeatedly during planning—these are the same questions all guests have.
Approach gift registry information last and with grace. Emphasize attendance over presents, then provide links for those who wish to give. Never demand gifts or suggest they're expected1.
Review your complete website for tone consistency, mobile readability, and accuracy. Read everything aloud to ensure natural flow. Have your partner and one trusted friend review for clarity and typos. Update information promptly when details change—outdated websites create more confusion than having no website at all.
Your wedding website wording should feel like a warm conversation with people you care about, providing clear information wrapped in your authentic personalities. Whether formal or casual, the goal remains the same: help your guests prepare to celebrate with you.
Sources and References
Footnotes
-
Emily Post Institute, Wedding Website Tips, 2024. https://emilypost.com/advice/wedding-website-tips ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11 ↩12 ↩13 ↩14 ↩15 ↩16
-
Wikipedia, Wedding Breakfast, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedding_breakfast ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
-
Easy Weddings, Gift Registry Wording and Wishing Well Quotes, 2024. https://www.easyweddings.com.au/articles/gift-registry-wording/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3