What's Up with Wedding Websites?

Wedding websites are all the rage these days as a green, inexpensive, alternative to response cards and endless phone calls getting information out to guests. Tech-savvy brides and grooms can launch their own portal to let family and friends in on everything from their love story to directions and other fine details that are frequently left off the invitations. Perks of a site can include planning guides, seating charts, and etiquette tips.

A wedding website isn't right for all, is it a good fit for you?

1. Are you and your husband-to-be comfortable with computers? Difficulty varies from typing in a form to creating your own html codes.

2. Are your guests? If the majority of your guests are of the .com/Facebook generation, you're a go for launch. Be sure to also accommodate those who are not.

3. Do you have the time? Even the simplest sites require some; weigh the time you'd spend on the phone or licking envelopes with your proficiency online.

4. How private are you? This will be on the world-wide web and may be viewed by people who are not invited.

What might be included?

• Basic Info - start with everything on your invitations: ceremony date and time, reception location...basically the Who, What, Where, and Why. You might also include appropriate/suggested attire.

• Directions - link to GoogleMaps or MapQuest and add own touches if there are certain landmarks guests should look for. ie: Turn left after the red barn and park along the lilac hedge.

• Hotel Info - if you've reserved a block of rooms or have a special discount at a specific hotel, link to their site here. If not, list nearby options with their own links to make reservations simple. Also include local attractions, dining, and child care options.

• Registry Info - link to the site(s) of your registry and mention things that may not be on it. ie: We've just bought a house and would appreciate Home Depot gift cards in any denomination. This is also a good place to list non-conventional registries like a honeymoon fund.

• Online RSVP - cut down on the cost of sending response cards by having guests log-in to let you know if they're attending. Send actual cards to older guests who may not be comfortable with a computer.

• Love story - a few short paragraphs: the meeting, the proposal and future dreams together adds a romantic touch.

• Photos - include shots from a recent vacation or your engagement shoot before the wedding, then update with day-of and honeymoon shots.

• Wedding Party Info - who will be in your wedding and how they're related can be fun information to share in advance so folks know that the cute flower girl is your maid of honor's daughter.

Free vs Paid Websites

A wedding website should make planning easier and cheaper, not more difficult and expensive. With that in mind, both types of sites exist, but a free site should be sufficient. Pay-based sites may include a personalized url (adamandkate.com), bridal blog, or virtual guest book. If you'd really like friends and family to see what you're up to and make comments, add a link to your Facebook page or create a fan page for your wedding. You can always try a free trial of pay-based sites and test them out before buying.

Top Five Free Providers:

• The Knot - One of the very first wedding websites offering both free and paid services, this is a very popular provider. With 20+ designs, they also offer coordinating save-the-date emails as well as napkins, favors and other items.

• Wedding Channel - offers basic designs that are easy to use. They will also make a donation to your favorite charity whenever guests buy gifts from your registry through their link...you'll get presents that give back!

• Ewedding - Boasts you'll be able to create your site in 5 minutes with customizable pages such as quizzes and polls. Upgrades are available for a monthly fee.

• Mywedding - allows you to select a location and provides a guide to vendors in that area.

• Islandbrides - specifically geared toward beach brides with destination weddings.