Almost there! This is the third lesson of my "Invitation Anatomy 101" list of articles. Remember, this article continues the listing of common Optional Components typically seen in invitations. While many examples are directly relevant to wedding invitations, I've tried to be broader to include the general invitation and corporate invitation components as well.
If you haven't already done so, I highly encourage reading my article "Invitation Anatomy 101 - Typical Components" first. This article continues from "Invitation Anatomy 101 - Optional Components I":
Optional (or Additional Components) CONTINUED:
6) Seating Cards
- Seating cards may be used to identify the proper spaces each guest should be seated at. These cards may be made for both the ceremony/formal event and reception. For weddings, ceremony cards are also known as 'pew cards', whereas reception cards are considered 'place cards'.
- There are many variations of seating cards. Some seating cards are simply number cards, while others may only discern 'bride's side' and 'groom's side', or main auditorium, balcony level (for annual meetings), etc. Some seating cards can even state each guest's full name.
- Seating cards are usually small in size and may be folded horizontally. They usually match the invitation style exactly or coordinate with the theme and colours of the event or company logo (for corporate events). There are countless style options and variations available.
7) Thank You Cards
- With respect to weddings, it is not only proper etiquette, but an expectation that the newlywed couple sends out Thank You cards. Your guests' wedding or shower gifts should be acknowledged in this form (even in addition to other personalized expressions of gratitude).
- Thank You cards have evolved over the years. The traditional card used to be a small book-fold card no bigger than 3"x 5" containing a small handwritten expression of gratitude on one side, and a wallet-size wedding picture on the other side.
- Some modern alternatives include: Postcards that features a collage of wedding pictures on one side and a gratitude expression on the reverse; Cards that emulate the style and format of the invitation but contain the gratitude expression instead (picture may or may not be included); or the utilization of digital picture printing or even electronic Thank You cards.
- Nowadays, less couples are opting for the inclusion of photographs in their Thank You cards. Since the trend is towards smaller more intimate weddings, supplying photographs has become a permissible omission.
- Companies may also wish to send out "Acknowledgement cards" to express appreciation to their guests for attending their event. I have seen the use of Acknowledgement cards/Thank You cards for smaller, more elite VIP events where guest lists may include diplomats, industry leaders, top company executives, politicians, and other dignitaries. Besides being a great reminder and advertising opportunity, it's also proper etiquette. Oftentimes, an appropriate gift accompanies the Acknowledgement/Thank You cards.
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Note: Electronic Thank You cards should always follow in conjunction with printed cards.
8) Residence Cards (or Change of Address Cards)
- For the post-wedding couple: Residence cards (also called "At Home Cards") are an elegant way to communicate your new Home or residence together to all your friends and family.
- These are small cards that may be sent with invitations or shortly after the wedding. They should include your names, your new Home or residence address, phone number, and move-in date.
- For companies: Change of Address cards are critical to companies planning a major location change. Change of Address cards can stylishly infor
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