As Stephen and I headed to our friends’ wedding several months before our own, armed with turn-by-turn directions from Google Maps, we felt excited and relaxed, knowing we had more than enough time to get there, mingle with guests, and enjoy the anticipation of such a big moment.
Fast forward an hour later to the two of us frantically dashing into the church at the last minute, now feeling stressed and frustrated that Google Maps led us on a wild goose chase through one poorly marked street after another.
What can a bride and groom do to prevent these types of mix-ups for guests? Before sending out your invitations, be sure to plug your venue addresses into popular online mapping sites, including Google Maps and MapQuest, to make sure the route that pops up is the right one.
If you find that one of these sites leads guests through a maze of wrong turns, you’ll then have plenty of time to warn them, either by including the info with your invites or posting it on your website. Sure, it’s extra work, but do you really want to take a chance with something as important as ensuring guests make it in time to witness your I-dos?
I’d also suggest including a paper map as an invitation insert, which our friends unfortunately skipped. Even if your ceremony and reception are being held at the same place, a map showing the cross streets and general area will at least allow guests to tell whether they’re on the right track.
I’ve seen a lot of fun hand-drawn and homemade maps, but if DIY isn’t for you, there are tons of professional options out there, including this cute and classy version by Distinctive Directions.
As for us, we took the DIY route.
I agree! A good map is key! I remember the time before GPS and getting lost from poorly written map directions…
Thanks for the tips about including a map in the invites! I have added directions to our website but no one will be looking at the website as they are en-route to our wedding. Both David and I love maps, so much that we are incorporating them into our wedding on some of our DIY projects, so maps would be great included in with our invitations!!
Great tips! Some map card designs allow for the printing of both a map and driving directions which would cover all your bases in making it easier for guests.