Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Wedding Websites

One of the most popular and helpful trends in weddings today is the wedding website. This can be the most cost-effective way to communicate information to your guests, especially those traveling from out of town. There are a few do's and don'ts to consider...

A wedding website is a great place to share your story as a couple. Including photos, the story of your proposal, and how you met is a great way to allow guests to get to know you more. For the guests who you don't know (the groom's mom's BFF from college), it is great for them to find a more personal connection with you.

However, the wedding website should be used to convey important information for guests as well. Don't forget that this should be a "one stop shop" of info.

Keep the design clean and easily readable, and be sure to use visible navigation cues. Remember that not every guest is your sorority sister who is computer savvy.

Let's talk about content...here are the most important aspects you should include:

1. Wedding Date, Time, and Location

2. Travel Information, including your local airport code (XNA for Northwest Arkansas) as well as transportation to and from the airport

3. Hotel Choices & Rates, including the contact information and websites for each choice

3. Directions. Be sure to think of the directions everyone would need (Airport -> Hotel, Hotel -> Ceremony, Ceremony -> Reception)

4. A Wedding Weekend Itinerary, including what the weater will be and guidelines for the attire for each activity

5. Photos & Your Story, as mentioned above

6. Your local favorites (restaurants, shops, museums, attractions), as well as the fun things going on in town

7. Your wedding registries...Yes, it is acceptable to list these here since people are seeking out more information surrounding your wedding celebration.

8. Additional features, if available, can include an RSVP tool, an email sign up for email updates, and a guest book.

You should reserve your domain name and post your website as early as possible. Most wedding website hosts provide a year-long service for not much cash. Wed-O-Rama's fees are $70, or The Knot offers complimentary sites. Include your web address on your Save the Date announcements. Just make sure your site is ready and up to date when you put those beauties in the mail.

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