Wedding Websites 101
This cheat sheet is all you need to create and share a killer The Knot wedding website.
By Elena Donovan Mauer
Free = Awesome
There are lots of scenarios where you get what you pay for, but making a wedding website isn't one of them. You can create a personalized site absolutely free. Check out our options—there are more than 100 different color and style combos to choose from, so we're positive you'll find one that fits your wedding perfectly. Search for the template design you like best, pick one, and the site will walk you through the entire creation process. It's so easy—we promise!
Cover the Basics—and Then Some
There are two main reasons to make a wedding website. One is to give guests need-to-know info that may not be included on the invite (hint: no need to bulk up that envelope with directions and hotel suggestions). This means you'll want to cover the who, what, when and where, plus how to get there. The second reason is to add other fun stuff guests will want to know, like suggested attire and who will be in the wedding party. Think of the site as a one-stop shop guests can check whenever they have questions—without having to call you.
Broadcast Your Registry Details Loud and Clear
You know you're not supposed to say where you're registered on your invite, right? Well, creating a website gives you a chance to tell everyone exactly where you're registered—without seeming tacky! You can even put links right on your web page that will take your guests directly to your registries, where they can start shopping for you immediately. Go ahead and make those links big and bold!
Add Personal Touches
Let visitors to your site get to know you a little better by giving them a bit of background on you and your soon-to-be spouse (which is especially helpful for guests who don't know one of you that well). Tell them the story of how you met, or you could even have video footage of the proposal with a link to it (on YouTube or elsewhere) or share a few of your favorite couple shots. You might even want to put up photos of wedding party members so everyone will recognize who's who at the wedding. Just beware of going too crazy—you can include a lot of info on your site, but it should still be to the point. Our guess is that visitors won't feel like clicking through a slideshow of the story of your life together or a big album devoted to your pet (aka the ring bearer).
Out-of-Towners Will Love You For This
Post logistical details for guests making travel plans. They'll certainly appreciate the heads-up that you've blocked rooms at a specific hotel and will love having all the info they need to book one at their fingertips. You don't have to add just the hotel and venue info, but great restaurants they might want to try and cool things to do while they're in town.
Take Advantage of the Bells and Whistles
Now for the fun stuff: Create an online RSVP option and collect their +1 info at the same time. You can also add customized pages to share just about anything, like a charity you're donating to.
Know What to Leave Out
Remember: Your grandma (and future in-laws) will see this site. So maybe you want to skip those pictures at a college keg party or wearing those double-entendre Halloween costumes. And even though the website doesn't have to be as perfect as your invitation, run your words through spell check and have a friend proofread before you post anything. Also, double-check that all the addresses and other facts are correct. You don't want to get your guests lost or confused!