Wedding Websites: 5 reasons why they work

Getting right into our topic today, we’re talking about wedding websites. When they first started going mainline, some people were a little bit against it. But the fact-of-the-matter is, they can be such a useful (and helpful) tool when it comes to planning your wedding. With all the options that couples have today, it’s a win-win for everyone and I came up with 5 reasons why. But first, what is a wedding website?

A wedding website is an online website that’s devoted entirely to you and your spouse-to-be. It’s a tool that you and your guests will use to keep everyone on the same page. It should include all the important information to help them prepare for your big day. Depending on which company you use, it can also help you keep track of your Guest List with an RSVP Management tool, which can be a great help.

So that’s what it is, now for the “WHY?”:

1. It tells your story. Adding “your story” is a great way to make your wedding more intimate. Ok, yes, Mom and Dad probably know how you met your sweetheart. They even probably know how he proposed. But think about the aunts and uncles whom you haven’t seen in a while. You are inviting them to your wedding and they might not have met your husband-to-be yet. Your website allows them to read (at their leisure) all about how you met, quirky things you have in common, and hobbies you both enjoy. And let’s say you add on your site that you both love the Yankees or wine. That gives your relatives a great gift idea! Which brings me to number 2…
2. Add your registries. It’s a tough situation to invite someone to an event and then say, “here are some things I have pre-picked out for you to buy me.” By adding your wedding website address to your mailings, you can eliminate that awkwardness. Simply add a page titled “Our Registries” and include clickable links that give your friends and family some type of direction. That is, if they don’t sign you up for the “Wine of the Month” Club.
3. Out-of-town guests feel special. With all the planning and chaos that is going on, couples too often forget those friends and family members that traveled a genuine distance to share in their special day. Some guests are not familiar with the area and have no clue where to stay, eat at, directions. Adding information about hotel accommodations allows all of your out-of-town family to automatically be at the same place. No guessing or calling each other to find out what Google recommends. They trust you, tell them what to do, and they’ll likely do it. It would also be a great place to recommend local restaurants that are near their hotel and some small activities happening around the date of your wedding. Let them know of any available transportation services that might be offered to them, as well (i.e. shuttle service to the reception).
4. Directions! Directions! Directions! We are definitely living in the days of GPS, but not everyone uses one (I swear by mine, and sometimes at mine). Including an interactive map and directions will be a huge help to those who are anti-GPS. If your ceremony and reception are at different locations, make sure to include very clear directions from one to the other. (You can use those same directions and make print-outs to be given out at the ceremony)
5. Information is always accessible. One of the greatest things about wedding websites is they are always accessible. Your guests can access it anytime they please and all the information is at their fingertips. It’s important to keep your information clear and simple. Include pictures of yourself to make it more personal. Maybe keep a blog as you go to keep everyone involved (and help them appreciate those DIY favors). Remember, your wedding day is not all about you (sorry), it’s all about the celebration. And your guests are MAJOR part of that celebration.

Now, where do you get started? Below are some great sites to get you started. They are all very user-friendly and pre-designed so it takes very little skill.

• Wedding Channel – part of theKnot.com. They offer free websites to couples, you just need to sign up with their site.
• eWedding – They claim you can create your website in under 5 minutes (I recommend more time be put into it, but it can be that easy). They are free for the first year, or you can pay $5-$15 a month and have your own personal domain (www.maryandjack.com) and email address (bride@maryandjack.com).
• MyWedding – I like this site a lot because you can use it to match your website with your invitations right through their site. It’s a great way to keep your theme cohesive and clear. This is also a free service.
• WeddingWindow – This website caught my eye, because I really like their themes. But they come with a price. Packages start at $59 and go up to $119. But it’s a one-time payment, so figure about $10 a month for a year. Not too bad, just watch your wedding budget!

All of the above websites will help you easily get started in filling out your information. But to give you a feel for a real wedding website, check out www.carawill.ourwedding.com. Cara is a former schoolmate of mine and she is marrying a great guy in July. You must read the proposal story, it’s a great example of really involving your readers in your story.

Have a great weekend everyone! Happy Planning!

-Danielle

www.daniellepasternak.com