[ULTIMATE] Wedding Invitation Wording From CASUAL to FORMAL!

As an experienced event planner, I understand the crucial role that wedding invitations play in setting the tone for the big day. In this comprehensive guide, I've shared my knowledge on everything you need to know about wedding invitation wording, from casual to formal styles. We've covered design choices, paper options, and the various components of an invitation suite. I've also provided practical tips and etiquette advice to help you craft the perfect invitation that reflects your unique style and ensures your guests are well-informed and excited about your special day. 

1. Couple's Names:

   • Prominently feature the names of the couple getting married. Typically, the bride's name comes before the groom's name.

2. Date and Time:

   • Clearly state the date and time of the wedding. Include the day of the week as well to avoid any confusion.

3. Location:

   • Specify the venue where the wedding ceremony will take place. Include the full address so guests can find the location easily.

4. Reception Information (Optional):

   • If the reception is at a different location, include its name and address. If it's at the same venue as the ceremony, you can simply state, "Reception to follow."

5. RSVP Details:

   • Include a request for a response from your guests. Specify a deadline and provide instructions on how they can RSVP (e.g., by mail, email, phone, or a wedding website).

1. Host Line:

   • Traditionally, the invitation begins with the names of the hosts (those who are paying for the wedding). This could be the bride's parents, the groom's parents, both sets of parents, the couple themselves, or a combination. Here are a few examples:
     • "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter..."
     • "Together with their parents, Jane Smith and Michael Johnson invite you to celebrate their wedding..."

2. Couple's Names:

   • Following the host line, you'll include the names of the couple getting married. Typically, the bride's name comes before the groom's name. For a same-sex couple, the names can be listed in alphabetical order or in the order that feels most natural.
     • "Jane Marie Smith and Michael James Johnson"

3. Date and Time:

   • Clearly state the date and time of the wedding. Be sure to include the day of the week as well.
     • "Saturday, the tenth of June, two thousand twenty-four at four o'clock in the afternoon"

4. Location:

   • Specify the venue where the wedding ceremony will take place. Include the full address.
     • "St. James Cathedral, 123 Main Street, City, State"

    

5. RSVP Details:

   • Include a request for a response from your guests. Provide a date by which they should RSVP and how they can do so (email, phone, website, etc.).
     • "Kindly respond by June 1st, 2024, at www.ourweddingwebsite.com or call (123) 456-7890"

6. Attire Information (Optional):

   • If you have a specific dress code, such as black tie, casual, or beach attire, include it on the invitation.
     • "Black Tie Optional" or "Casual Attire"

7. Additional Cards:

   • Sometimes, couples include separate cards for directions, accommodation information, and registry details.

8. Special Instructions:

   • If there are any unique instructions for guests, such as parking information or dietary preferences, include them on a separate card.

      

9. Personalization:

   • Feel free to add personal touches that reflect your personalities and love story. Some couples include a brief love quote or a short note expressing their excitement.

      

1. Be Clear and Concise:

   • Use clear and straightforward language to convey essential details like the date, time, and location of the wedding. Avoid overly complicated wording or obscure fonts that may confuse your guests.

2. Use Formal or Casual Language:

   • Choose a tone that matches the formality of your wedding. Traditional weddings often use more formal language, while casual or modern weddings can be more relaxed in their wording. For example:
     • Formal: "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honor of your presence..."
     • Casual: "You're invited to the wedding of Jane and Michael..."

3. Include Both Sets of Parents (if applicable):

   • If both sets of parents are hosting or contributing to the wedding, it's considerate to include their names on the invitation. For example: "Together with their parents, Jane Smith and Michael Johnson invite you to celebrate their wedding..."

4. Specify the Date and Time:

   • Clearly state the date, including the day of the week, and the time of the wedding. This prevents any confusion among your guests.

5. Provide Location Details:

   • Include the name of the ceremony venue along with its complete address. If you have a reception at a different location, mention it as well.

6. Optional Elements:

   • You can add personal touches to your wording, such as a favorite quote, a brief love story, or a heartfelt message expressing your excitement to have your guests join you on your special day.

7. RSVP Information:

   • Clearly specify how you want guests to RSVP and include a deadline. You might say, "Kindly respond by [date] at [website/email/phone number]."

8. Dress Code (if applicable):

   • If you have a specific dress code for your wedding, such as black tie or casual attire, include it on the invitation to ensure guests come appropriately dressed.

9. Be Mindful of Grammar and Spelling:

   • Proofread the wording carefully to avoid any grammatical errors or typos. It's a good idea to have someone else review it as well.

10. Consider Cultural or Religious Traditions:

    • If your wedding has specific cultural or religious traditions, you can incorporate relevant wording or symbols to reflect these aspects.

11. Keep It Consistent:

    • Maintain a consistent style and tone throughout your invitation suite, including any additional cards like RSVP cards or accommodation details.

12. Check Invitation Etiquette:

    • Familiarize yourself with proper invitation etiquette, especially if you're including information about gifts, registry, or children's attendance.

13. Proofread and Get Feedback:

    • Before printing, proofread the wording and get feedback from trusted friends or family members to ensure it's clear, elegant, and free of errors.

What do you write on a wedding invitation?

On a wedding invitation, you typically include essential details such as the hosts' names (if applicable), the names of the couple getting married, the date and time of the wedding, the venue, and RSVP information. Additional information like reception details, dress code, and special instructions may also be included. 

How do you start a wedding invitation letter?

A wedding invitation typically starts with a host line (if applicable) followed by the couple's names. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter, Jane Marie Smith, to Michael James Johnson..."

How do you list bride and groom names on wedding invitations?

Traditionally, the bride's name comes before the groom's name. For example, “Jane Marie Smith and Michael James Johnson.”
 

Why does the bride's name go first on wedding invitations?

The tradition of listing the bride's name first on wedding invitations is a longstanding custom that reflects historical patriarchal norms. However, many modern couples choose to list names in alphabetical order or in a way that feels most natural to them, regardless of gender or tradition.

How do you write a short wedding invitation?

A short wedding invitation maintains the essential details while keeping the wording concise. For example: “Join us for the wedding of [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name] on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue]. Reception to follow.”

What is the best marriage invitation message?

The best marriage invitation message is one that reflects the couple's personality and the style of their wedding. It should be heartfelt, warm, and inviting. You can include a brief personal message expressing your excitement and love for your guests.
 

Does the husband or wife name go first on an invitation?

The tradition of listing the wife's name first on a wedding invitation is common, but it's not a strict rule. Couples can choose the order that feels most comfortable or meaningful to them.
 

Does it matter whose name is first on a wedding invitation?

It doesn't matter whose name comes first on a wedding invitation. Modern etiquette allows for flexibility, and couples can decide the order that best suits their preferences, values, and traditions.