Wording Your Nuptial Mass Wedding Invites: A Simple Guide

When it comes to nuptial mass wedding invitations, it's important to use formal language that reflects the solemnity of the occasion. The wording should include the names of the hosts, the couple, and the location and time of the ceremony. Here's an example: Together with their families, [bride's name] and [groom's name] request the honour of your presence at their nuptial mass as they exchange their vows on [date] at [time] at [church name and address]. The honour spelling is used to denote a religious ceremony.

Including the groom's parents

When it comes to wedding invitation wording, there are some basic elements that should be included no matter what. Here are some instructive and focused tips on how to word your nuptial mass wedding invitations, including the groom's parents:

Host Line

The host line is where you indicate who is hosting the wedding. Traditionally, the bride's parents are the hosts, and their names come first. However, it is becoming more common to include the names of both sets of parents, especially if they are contributing financially. Here are some examples of how to word the host line when including the groom's parents:

• "Mr. and Mrs. John N. Simons request the honour of your presence..."
• "Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey William Engle and Mr. & Mrs. Franklin James Edgeworth request the honour of your presence..."
• "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas & Elizabeth Glanville request the honour of your presence..."

Request Line

The request line is where you extend the invitation to attend the wedding. Here are some examples of wording you can use:

• "request the honour of your presence..."
• "request the pleasure of your company..."
• "invite you to celebrate with them..."

Couple's Names

The names of the couple should be included in the invitation, with the bride's name typically coming first, followed by the groom's name. For same-sex couples, you can choose the order that sounds better or go in alphabetical order. If the bride's parents are hosting, you can use her first and middle name only, without the last name. Here is an example of how to word this section when including the groom's parents:

"at the nuptial mass uniting their daughter/son [Bride's first and middle name] to [Groom's full name], son of Mr. and Mrs. [Groom's parents' names]"

Date, Time, and Location

The date, time, and location of the wedding should be included in the invitation. For formal invitations, spell out the date and time in full. Include the ceremony venue by writing the "Venue Name" and "City, State" on separate lines. If the reception is at a different location, you can include it on a separate line or on a separate reception card.

Reception Information

If the reception is at the same location as the ceremony, you can simply write "Reception to follow" or "Dinner and dancing to follow." If the reception is at a different location, provide the venue name and address. Include the time if the reception is not immediately following the ceremony.

Dress Code

While not required, including dress code information can be helpful for guests. If your wedding is black-tie, it is customary to include this on the invitation. Otherwise, guests will infer the dress code based on the formality of the invitation.

RSVP Information

Most couples include a separate response card for guests to RSVP by mail. You can also provide the option to RSVP via your wedding website. Include the website address on a separate card, along with an indication that guests can respond online.

The date and time of the wedding

When it comes to the date and time of the wedding, it is important to include both the date and the time of day. The date should be written out in full, including the day of the week, the date, and the month. For example: "Saturday, the twenty-fifth of September". The time of day should also be written out in full, using "o'clock" and "in the afternoon" or "in the evening". For example: "at two o'clock in the afternoon".

"on Saturday, the twenty-fifth of September, at two o'clock in the afternoon"

"on Saturday, the sixth of November, at three o'clock in the afternoon"

"on Saturday, the sixteenth day of August, two thousand and fourteen, at three o'clock in the afternoon"

"on Saturday, the tenth of February, two thousand eighteen, at three o'clock in the afternoon"

"on Sunday, the eighteenth of May, two thousand and fourteen, at five o'clock in the afternoon"

It is also important to note that the time of day is dependent on the time of the ceremony. For example, if the ceremony is taking place in the morning, you would use "in the morning" instead of "in the afternoon".

Additionally, it is customary to use "honour" instead of "honor" when referring to the time of the wedding to denote that the ceremony is taking place in a church or place of worship.

Location of the wedding ceremony

When it comes to the location section of your nuptial mass wedding invitations, here are some ideas and suggestions to consider:

The location section of your wedding invitation should provide clear and detailed information about where the ceremony will be held. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Include the full name of the church: This is particularly important if you're having a Catholic wedding. You can use the format "Saint James Catholic Church" or simply "Saint James Church", depending on your preference.
• Provide the full address of the church: Make sure to include the street name, city, and state. You may also want to include the zip code for added clarity. For example, "900 West La Habra Boulevard, La Habra, California."
• Consider adding additional directions or information: If the church is located in an area that may be difficult to find, consider including extra directions or a map with your invitation. Alternatively, you could direct guests to your wedding website for more detailed information.
• Specify the date and time of the ceremony: This is typically included as part of the location section. For example, "on Saturday, the twenty-fifth of September at two o'clock in the afternoon."
• Mention the type of ceremony: You can indicate that it is a nuptial mass by using phrases such as "request the honour of your presence at the Nuptial Mass uniting their daughter/son" or "at the celebration of the Nuptial Mass."
• Include the name of the sacrament: If you wish to emphasize the religious aspect of the ceremony, you can add "in the sacrament of Holy Matrimony" after mentioning the nuptial mass.
• Consider the length of the invitation: While providing detailed information is important, you also want to avoid making the invitation too wordy. Find a balance between conveying the necessary details and maintaining a concise and elegant wording style.
• Proofread and edit: Before finalizing the location section, carefully review the wording for any typos or errors. Ensure that dates, times, and addresses are accurate. It may be helpful to have someone else review it as well for a fresh pair of eyes.

"Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Hughes request the honour of your presence at the Nuptial Mass uniting their daughter with Mr. Kyle Christopher Collins, in the sacrament of Holy Matrimony, on Saturday, the sixth of November at three o'clock in the afternoon at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 900 West La Habra Boulevard, La Habra, California."

Reception details

If the reception is held at the same location as the ceremony, you can simply write "Reception immediately following the ceremony".

If the reception is at a different location, include the name and address of the venue. You may also include additional details such as the room or area within the venue where the reception will be held. Here are some examples:

• "Reception to follow at The Grand Ballroom, 789 Elm Street, Anytown, USA"
• "Cocktails, Dinner and Dancing at six o'clock in the evening, The Drake Hotel, 140 East Walton Place, Chicago, Illinois"
• "Dinner and Dancing immediately following, Home of the Bride, 123 Indian Hill Road, Winnetka, Illinois"
• "Reception immediately following the ceremony, The Donovan Residence, 123 West Calumet Court, River Hills, Wisconsin"

If you want to include additional details about the reception activities, you can mention them after the venue information. For example:

• "Dinner and Dancing to follow at the Grand Ballroom, 789 Elm Street, Anytown, USA"
• "Cocktails, dinner and celebrations at The Westin Hotel, 789 Main Street, Anytown, USA"

You may also want to include transportation or accommodation information for your guests, especially if the reception venue is at a distant or hard-to-find location.

Dress code

When deciding on the dress code for your wedding, it's important to consider the mood, time of day, venue, season, and your personality. Communicate your dress code thoughtfully and early, so your guests know what to expect and can plan their outfits accordingly. Here are some suggestions for wording the dress code on your wedding invitations:

White Tie

The most formal dress code, white tie weddings call for ball gowns and tailcoat tuxedos. Guests can accessorize with gloves, fine jewelry, tiaras, and white bow ties.

• "White Tie Celebration: Please join us in your most royal formalwear."
• "We ask that men wear tailcoats and women wear floor-length evening gowns or ball gowns. Top hats and gloves are encouraged."

Black Tie

Black tie attire is formal and elegant, often seen at refined venues. Guests can wear tuxedos, suits, or floor-length gowns.

• "A Formal Affair: Our venue requires Black Tie attire."
• "Black-tie. We ask that men wear a tuxedo and women wear a floor-length gown."

Black Tie Optional

This dress code encourages formal attire but gives guests more flexibility. They can choose to wear a suit and tie or a floor-length dress that's not an evening gown.

• "Black Tie Optional: Formal attire is suggested."
• "Black-tie optional. We ask that men wear a tuxedo or a dark suit and tie and women wear an evening gown or midi or knee-length cocktail dress."

Creative Black Tie

For couples with a unique style, creative black tie adds a twist to the traditional formalwear. Guests can wear outfits with bold patterns and materials, such as velvet suits or sequined cocktail dresses.

"Creative Black Tie: Formalwear is suggested, with some flare."

Cocktail Attire

Cocktail attire is semi-formal, and guests can dress up without adhering to the strict formality of black-tie events. Knee-length cocktail dresses or tie-optional suits are appropriate.

• "Cocktail Attire: Elegance encouraged."
• "Cocktail attire. We suggest that men wear a suit or dress shirt with a tie and women wear a midi- or knee-length dress or dressy separates."

Semi-Formal

Semi-formal attire is similar to cocktail attire but a bit more casual, often seen at daytime weddings. Guests can wear a dress shirt, a well-tailored jacket, and pants.

• "We can’t wait to celebrate with you in your daytime Semi Formal attire."
• "Semi-Formal: We ask that you wear semi-formal attire such as a cocktail-length dress or dressy separates for women and a suit and tie for men. Please note that the venue does not permit blue jeans or sneakers."

Festive Attire

Festive attire is a creative spin on cocktail and semi-formal wear, encouraging guests to wear bold, colorful outfits.

"Festive Attire: Guests are encouraged to wear bold, colorful semi-formal attire."

Garden Party Attire

Garden party attire is semi-formalwear suitable for an outdoor setting. Guests can choose more practical shoes and high-end spring dresses.

"Garden Party Attire: Dress in your best outdoor-friendly semi-formalwear."

Dressy Casual

Dressy casual is similar to business casual, with a polished yet relaxed vibe. Guests can wear button-down shirts, posh summer dresses, or lightweight separates.

• "Comfort Encouraged: Our celebration will be Dressy Casual."
• "May we suggest button-down shirts with khaki pants for men and sundresses with dressy flats or comfortable heels for women."

Casual

A casual dress code sets an easygoing tone. Guests can be comfortable while still showing off their style. Heels can be swapped for wedges or flats, and a button-down shirt can be worn without a tie.

• "Casual attire is welcome at our wedding."
• "May we suggest that men wear a long or short-sleeved shirt with slacks or shorts and ladies wear a sundress or dressy separates, like a nice top and skirt. Instead of heels, wear a pair of strappy or platform sandals."

Frequently asked questions