Creating a wedding website might seem like just another item on a never-ending to-do list, but it’s actually a huge aid to the rest of your wedding planning, as well as a fun way to get everyone excited about the event. Most importantly, it’s an important resource for your guests. It’s their digital go-to for everything from travel information and dress code to gift registry details and accommodation options. Having all that information in one place will save you from having to field the same questions over and over again. Plus, in light of COVID-19, it’s also the perfect place to communicate safety plans and updates.

But how do you go about building a wedding website? Fortunately, there are lots of options. The easiest is to use one of the free services offered by sites like Zola or The Knot, which have standard templates for you to use. However, you can also opt for something more custom, using site builders like Squarespace or WordPress or even building a bespoke site from scratch if coding is your thing. If you want something a bit more wedding specific without the headache of coding but still get that designer look, check out Appy Couple. They even have a matching smart phone app to go with it!

Whichever option you choose, here are ten top tips for what to put on your wedding website, what to avoid, and how to make it both practical and personal.

Make it yours. Your wedding website is primarily an information hub, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add a personal stamp! For example, fun details about your relationship or favorite photographs. If there are any personal elements that you’ll be weaving into your wedding design, this is a good time to give your guests some background. You can also include info and pictures of the bridal party so that guests can put faces to names.

Keep it simple. Even though making it personal is important, it’s also important not to overwhelm your guests with too much information. Keep it simple and easy to navigate, with just a few well-designed pages.

Make it consistent with your wedding theme. If you’re having your site custom-designed, it’s a good idea to have it tie in with your paper goods. But even if you’re using a template, try to stick to the same vibe (for example, rustic or formal) and color palette.

Include a timeline of events. Your wedding website is the perfect place to communicate the details of your wedding day or weekend in the form of a timeline or schedule. Make sure it’s easy to refer to and don’t include events that are restricted (for example, the rehearsal dinner).

Add travel and accommodation details and other local information. Whether you’re planning a hometown soiree or destination wedding, out-of-town guests will really appreciate travel info, as well as accommodation suggestions. You can also include local favorites and suggestions for things to do or places to visit.

Include gift registry information (but don’t put the emphasis on it). One of the best things about a wedding website is that it’s a tasteful and easy way to communicate your registry details with the guests. Make sure it’s easy to find and add direct links. However, it’s important to strike a balance between handing out information and seeming pushy, so keep it simple and modest.

Add a FAQ page. As the date gets closer, you’ll often find family and friends asking the same questions. Add a FAQ page to your wedding website and update it whenever these questions arise.

Use a password to protect your privacy. Your wedding website will include personal information about you and your movements, so it’s a good idea to use a password. It’s easy to share this with invited guests.

Don’t assume everyone is web-savvy. Although the wedding website will be a useful resource for most of your guests, you may find that some of them are not online. Be sure to send hard copies of the most important information!

Keep the website up after the wedding. Once the wedding is over, don’t rush to pull the site down. It’s a useful place to add honeymoon and wedding pictures, photobooth links, etc. And, of course, to thank your guests for sharing your special day with you!

There you have it! Everything you need to make your wedding website the best resource possible!

xoxo,
Mindy