Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Dinner Details Included?

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of the planning process, and the wording is an important consideration. While the specifics may vary depending on the formality of the event and cultural traditions, there are some standard elements that should be included. Here's a guide to help you craft the perfect wedding invitation, including whether to mention dinner details.

The standard elements of a wedding invitation include:

- Host line: This line names the hosts of the event, usually the couple's parents or the couple themselves.

- Attendance request: A phrase inviting guests to the celebration, such as request the pleasure of your company.

- Couple's names: The names of the couple, often displayed prominently and in a decorative typeface.

- Date and time: Traditionally spelled out in full, but modern invitations may use numerical figures.

- Location: The name and address of the venue, including the city, state, and zip code.

- Reception details: If the ceremony and reception are at the same venue, a simple reception to follow is sufficient. Otherwise, include the reception details on a separate card.

- Dress code: Including dress code information is optional but helpful for guests. It is usually mentioned in the lower corner or centre of the invite.

Regarding dinner details, it is not necessary to include specific meal choices or a full menu on the wedding invitation. However, it is common to include a general indication of the meal service, such as dinner and dancing to follow or reception and dinner to follow. This gives guests a sense of what to expect without going into excessive detail.

In conclusion, while wedding invitations should include essential details such as the couple's names, date, time, and location, mentioning specific dinner details is not a requirement. A general indication of the meal service is often sufficient, allowing guests to plan accordingly without overwhelming them with excessive information.

What to include on rehearsal dinner invitations

Rehearsal dinner invitations should include the following:

The host of the rehearsal dinner

Traditionally, the groom's parents host the rehearsal dinner. However, the couple may host it themselves, or both families can contribute. In this case, the invitation can include a line such as "Together with their families".

The names of the couple

The couple's names are usually displayed in larger text and in a fancy typeface. For same-sex couples, names can be listed alphabetically or based on what looks best.

The event date, time, and location

Spell out the date and time in full for formal invitations, and use numerals for informal invites. The venue's street address is usually included unless it is a private residence.

The RSVP deadline and method

Email is often the easiest method for guests to respond.

Additional information

This can include the wedding website, dress code, and any special instructions.

Rehearsal dinner invitations can be sent out as early as four weeks in advance but should be sent after the wedding invites. They can also be included inside the wedding invitation suite.

Rehearsal dinner invitation wording tips

The wording of your rehearsal dinner invitation should be a reflection of your unique relationship, while also conveying all the necessary details. Here are some tips to help you craft the perfect invitation:

• Keep it clear and concise: Avoid using flowery language and long paragraphs. Instead, use simple and informal wording to ensure that important details don't get lost.
• Match the tone to the level of formality: Rehearsal dinners tend to be more informal than the wedding itself, so the wording of your invitations should reflect this.
• Include RSVP information: Specify how guests can RSVP (e.g., by phone, text, or email) and provide a designated person's contact details. Also, include an "RSVP by" date to ensure timely responses.
• Add a personal touch: Consider including a meaningful quote, a lyric from your first dance song, or anything else that reflects your personality as a couple.
• Explore creative options: If you have the time and imagination, think outside the box. For example, create a video invitation or a dedicated website.

Simple Rehearsal Dinner Invitation Wording

“Please join us for a rehearsal dinner honoring the union of Mr. and Mrs. Smith on Friday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at Il Forno Restaurant, 344 Main Street, San Diego, CA. RSVP to Daniel at [email address or phone number] by [date].”

Formal Rehearsal Dinner Invitation Wording

“Mr. and Mrs. Smith request your attendance at their rehearsal dinner on Friday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at Il Forno Restaurant, 344 Main Street, San Diego, CA. Kindly send all responses to Daniel at [email address or phone number] by [date].”

Romantic Rehearsal Dinner Invitation Wording

“The soon-to-be wedded Mr. and Mrs. Smith invite you to a celebration of their love on Friday, March 4, at 7 p.m. at Il Forno Restaurant, 344 Main Street, San Diego, CA. Send all rehearsal dinner RSVPs to Daniel at [email address or phone number] by [date].”

How to send rehearsal dinner invitations

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but it's also an exciting time for the couple and their families. The rehearsal dinner is an important part of the wedding festivities and a great opportunity for the wedding party and close family members to bond before the big day. Here are some detailed instructions on how to send rehearsal dinner invitations:

Start Planning Early:

Begin planning the rehearsal dinner three to six months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to organize all the details and ensure that your desired venue is available.

Determine the Host:

Traditionally, the groom's parents host and pay for the rehearsal dinner. However, this tradition is not set in stone, especially for LGBTQIA+ weddings or weddings where the couple prefers to host or share expenses with their families. The host is typically responsible for sending out invitations and covering the costs.

Finalize the Guest List:

The guest list for the rehearsal dinner is usually more intimate than the wedding itself. It often includes the wedding party, immediate family members, and sometimes the officiant, flower girls, and ring bearers. You can also invite out-of-town guests, especially if you're having a destination wedding, to make them feel included.

Prepare the Invitations:

The rehearsal dinner invitations should include the following information:

• The host of the rehearsal dinner
• The names of the couple
• The event date, time, and location
• The RSVP deadline and preferred method (email is often the easiest option)
• Any additional information: wedding website details, dress code, etc.

Send the Invitations:

Rehearsal dinner invitations can be sent out three to four weeks before the event, but it's important to send them after the wedding invitations. You can send paper invitations or opt for digital invites, maintaining a similar theme and structure as the wedding invites.

Handle Awkward Conversations:

If there are any disagreements or confusion about the guest list, remember that the rehearsal dinner is meant to celebrate the final run-through before the wedding. Emphasize that only those who are required to attend the rehearsal will be at the dinner, which helps ensure a more intimate gathering.

Gifts and Favors:

Rehearsal dinner guests are not expected to bring gifts for the couple. However, the couple may choose to use this opportunity to give thank-you gifts to their wedding party members and parents. Favors for guests are not necessary but can be given if desired.

Dessert Options:

While it's customary to have cake at the wedding, you can explore other dessert options for the rehearsal dinner. This could be a chance to sample sweet alternatives, such as chocolate donuts, a dessert table with mini confections, or even a playful snow cone and cotton candy machine!

Remember, the rehearsal dinner is a time to celebrate and connect with your loved ones before the wedding festivities begin. Enjoy the process, and don't stress too much about the small details!

How to navigate rehearsal dinner invitation RSVPs

Navigating RSVPs for your rehearsal dinner can be a tricky task, but there are several ways to make the process easier.

Firstly, it is important to consider the tone and wording of your invitations. Keeping the wording clear, concise, and creative will ensure your message is effective and memorable. It is also a good idea to match the tone and formality of your invitations to the level of formality of the event. As rehearsal dinners tend to be more informal than weddings, a casual voice is usually best.

Secondly, providing clear instructions on how to RSVP will make it easier for your guests to respond and for you to keep track of responses. Unlike wedding RSVPs, rehearsal dinner guests can respond informally, such as via phone call, text message, or email. Be sure to include the designated contact person's details on the invite, along with an "RSVP by" date. This will give your guests enough time to respond and help you plan the event accordingly.

Finally, using tools such as your wedding website, an online spreadsheet tracker, or a basic Excel spreadsheet to keep track of responses can simplify the process and help you stay organized.

By following these tips, you can effectively navigate rehearsal dinner invitation RSVPs and ensure a well-planned and enjoyable event.

The best type of rehearsal dinner invitations

• The couple's names (first names are usually fine, but if you're having a more formal event, use full names)
• Date of the rehearsal dinner
• Time of the rehearsal dinner
• Location of the rehearsal dinner (venue name and city and state, or full address)
• Host's names (traditionally, the groom's parents host the rehearsal dinner, but nowadays the couple or any number of close family members can host the event)
• Dress code
• Type of dinner
• Information on how to RSVP

You can also add a personal flair to the mix, such as a lyric from your first dance song or an excerpt from your favourite poem.

The tone of the wording should match the level of formality of the event. Since rehearsal dinners tend to be more informal, the invitations will likely have a more casual voice than the wedding invitations.

Traditionally, couples mail paper invitations for their rehearsal dinner. However, there's nothing wrong with inviting your guests through a digital invite. E-vites are also a more appropriate option if many of your guests will be travelling from out of town.

Frequently asked questions