Addressing Wedding Invites: Vietnamese Couple Edition

When it comes to addressing a wedding invitation to a Vietnamese couple, there are a few cultural nuances to consider. Traditionally, Vietnamese wedding invitations are considered an announcement, with the parents of the couple typically listed at the top, followed by the announcement of the marriage. For example, We have the honour of announcing the marriage of our children. The names of the couple are then displayed below. In addition, the Vietnamese culture includes the mailing addresses or hometowns of both families in the invitation.

It is also worth noting that bilingual invitations may present a unique challenge, as the English and Vietnamese wording can differ significantly. For instance, the Vietnamese language does not have a direct translation for certain English phrasing used in traditional Catholic wedding invitations. As such, it may be advisable to include both English and Vietnamese wording on the invitation to ensure a seamless flow.

Bilingual invitations

Bilingual wedding invitations are a great way to announce your wedding to guests, especially if they are a mix of Vietnamese and English speakers.

Wording and Translation

There are no hard and fast rules for bilingual invitations, and you can choose to translate the English version directly into Vietnamese or adapt it to fit with Vietnamese wedding invitation traditions. One source suggests that the English wording:

> The honour of your presence is requested at the celebration of the Nuptial Mass as [bride's name] & [groom's name] are united in the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony on [date & time] [church]"

Could be translated to Vietnamese as:

> "Trân trọng kính mời quý vị đến dự tiệc cưới và chung vui cùng chúng tôi [wedding date: DD.MM.YYYY] Vào lúc 5 giờ chiều tại: [location] Xin vui lòng phúc đáp trước ngày [date] Thành thật cám ơn. Để biết thêm thông tin vui lòng truy truy cập liên kết bên dưới."

Formatting

You may want to format your invitations with English on one side and Vietnamese on the other, or you could include both languages on the same page, one above the other.

Where to Buy

Bilingual wedding invitations can be purchased from a variety of online retailers, including Etsy and Zazzle. Etsy offers a Vietnamese bilingual wedding invitation template for $10, while Zazzle offers a Vietnamese bilingual invitation in classic script for $1.39.

Using titles

When addressing a wedding invitation to a Vietnamese couple, it's important to consider the cultural nuances and traditions that may differ from Western practices. Here are some guidelines for using titles when addressing a Vietnamese couple:

• Honourifics and Titles: In Vietnamese culture, it is respectful to use honourifics and titles when addressing elders or those who are respected. For example, when addressing an uncle, it is appropriate to use "Ông Bà" (meaning "Ong Ba," or "Mr. and Mrs.") or “Dear Uncle” before their full name. Similarly, for aunties, you can use "Bà Con" ("co," meaning "aunt," and "ba," meaning "Mrs."). These honourifics show deference and respect.
• Married Couple Address Format: When addressing a married couple, their names are typically written on the same line. If they have different last names, you can list the names separately. For example, if the husband's name is "Nguyễn Văn A" and the wife's name is "Trần Thị B," the invitation can be addressed to "Ông Bà Nguyễn Văn A và Trần Thị B" ("Ong Ba Nguyen Van A va Tran Thi B," which translates to "Mr. and Mrs. Nguyễn Văn A and Trần Thị B").
• Traditional Announcement: In Vietnamese culture, wedding invitations usually begin with the names of the parents from both families, followed by an announcement of the marriage. For example, "Tra^n tro.ng ba'o tin Le^~ Tha`nh Ho^n va` Le^~ Vu Quy cu?a con chu'ng to^i" translates to "We have the honour of announcing the marriage of our children." This traditional format is respectful and formal.
• Inner and Outer Envelopes: Like Western practices, Vietnamese wedding invitations can also use inner and outer envelopes. The outer envelope is more formal, and it is common to write the recipient's full name, including their personal title and surname. The inner envelope is more informal, allowing for more flexibility. You can choose to use only personal titles with last names or opt for a more casual approach with first names only.
• Bilingual Invitations: Many couples choose to create bilingual invitations, with one side in Vietnamese and the other in English. This approach ensures that all guests can understand the content and feel included. When translating, be mindful that some English wedding wording may not have a direct Vietnamese equivalent, so aim for a seamless translation that captures the essence of the invitation.

Remember, when in doubt, it is always a good idea to consult with the couple's family or native Vietnamese speakers to ensure that the titles and wording are culturally appropriate and respectful.

Parents sending invites

When it comes to addressing wedding invitations for a Vietnamese couple, there are a few cultural nuances to consider, especially if the guest list includes elders. Here are some guidelines for parents sending invites:

Wording and Translation

Start the invitation with the parents' names, indicating that they are hosting and inviting guests to their children's wedding. For example: "Mr. and Mrs. [bride's parents] request the honour of your presence at the celebration of the marriage of their daughter [bride's name] & Mr. [groom's name], son of Mr. and Mrs. [groom's name]."

The Vietnamese translation may say something like "have the honour of announcing the marriage of their children..." instead of the more direct "request the honour of your presence," as in some American invitations. This is because, in Vietnamese culture, an invitation is seen as an announcement, regardless of who is hosting.

Bilingual Invitations

Consider having the invitation in both English and Vietnamese. This is especially helpful if your guest list includes both English and Vietnamese speakers. You can have the invitation written in bilingual format, with English on one side and Vietnamese on the other, or you can include both languages on the same page, one above the other.

Addressing Guests

When addressing the guests, it is respectful to use honorifics, especially for elders. For example, when inviting an uncle, you can add "Dear Uncle" ("伯父大人" in Southern Vietnamese) before his name.

If you are inviting both their spouse and the whole family, make sure to indicate this clearly. You can use terms like "married couple" ("夫婦" or "伉俪" in Southern Vietnamese) or "whole family" ("阖府" in Southern Vietnamese) after the name of the invitation receiver.

Timing and Distribution

Traditionally, Chinese wedding invitations (which may share some cultural similarities with Vietnamese weddings) were sent by the parents on behalf of the couple. Nowadays, couples often distribute invitations themselves, especially to the elders in the family. It is recommended to deliver these invitations in person as a sign of respect.

If your guests live far away, sending the invitations by mail is also acceptable. It is courteous to send invitations at least three months before the wedding, leaving enough time for guests to make plans.

Invitation wording

When it comes to addressing wedding invitations to a Vietnamese couple, there are a few cultural specifics to keep in mind. Here is a guide to help you with the wording:

The Role of the Parents:

In Vietnamese culture, it is considered respectful for the invitation to come from the parents, especially when inviting elders. The traditional wording is something along the lines of: "We invite you to the wedding of [our names]". This format announces the marriage of their children. For example: "Tra^n tro.ng ba'o tin Le^~ Tha`nh Ho^n va` Le^~ Vu Quy cu?a con chu'ng to^i", which translates to "We have the honour of announcing the marriage of our children".

Bilingual Invitations:

If you are creating bilingual invitations, it is important to note that some English wedding invitation wording may not have a direct translation into Vietnamese. For example, in the English tradition, the invitation usually states who is hosting by listing the host at the top. In Vietnamese culture, an invitation is an announcement regardless of the host. Therefore, a direct translation may not be possible, and it is recommended to include both English and Vietnamese wording.

Names and Titles:

When addressing the couple, it is common to use honorifics and titles. For a married couple, their names are put on the same line, followed by their titles and last name. For example: "Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Rivera". If they have different last names, you can list the names separately: "Ms. Celine Elgin and Ms. Jacqueline Purcell".

Invitation Details:

The invitation should include the wedding date, time, and location. It is also common to include an RSVP date and a link or contact information for guests to respond. Here is an example of wording:

> "We invite you to join us in celebrating the wedding reception of [wedding date: DD.MM.YYYY]. Join us at 5:00 pm at [location]. Please RSVP by [date]. For more information and to RSVP, contact [phone number/email/website]".

Envelope Addressing:

When addressing the outer envelope, it is considered formal to write out the recipient's full name, including their personal title. For a married couple, their names can be written on the same line. For example: "Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Rivera". If they have different last names, you can list the names separately: "Ms. Celine Elgin and Ms. Jacqueline Purcell".

The inner envelope is more informal, and you have the option to use first names only or include titles and last names.

Formatting

The formatting of a wedding invitation to a Vietnamese couple will depend on the couple's preferences and how traditional they want to be. Here are some things to consider:

Language

You may choose to have the invitations in Vietnamese only, English only, or a combination of both languages. If you opt for bilingual invitations, you can present the information in several ways. One option is to have the English and Vietnamese side by side. Another option is to have the invitation in English on one side and Vietnamese on the other, creating a symmetrical design.

Wording

In traditional Vietnamese culture, wedding invitations are typically announcements, regardless of who is hosting the wedding. The wording is usually something along the lines of " [Parents' names] have the honour of announcing the marriage of their children." The invitation may also include the names of both sets of parents and their mailing addresses or hometowns.

In American culture, on the other hand, the invitation usually states who is hosting the wedding by listing the host(s) at the top. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. [bride's parents] request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter [bride's name] and [groom's name], son of Mr. and Mrs. [groom's parents]."

Addressing the Couple

When addressing a married couple, their names are usually put on the same line. If they have different last names, you can list the person you are closest with first, or go in alphabetical order. For example, "Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Rivera" or "Ms. Celine Elgin and Ms. Jacqueline Purcell."

If the couple is unmarried, their names should still be included on the envelopes, but each name gets its own line. Again, list the person you are closest with first or go in alphabetical order. For example, "Mr. Aaron Triguiero, Mr. Gabriel Reyes."

The use of titles is also something to consider. In traditional Vietnamese invitations, honorifics are often used, especially when addressing elders. For example, when addressing an uncle, it is better to use "Dear Uncle" ("伯父大人" in Southern Vietnamese) before his full name.

In American invitations, it is common to use titles such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. However, if you feel that personal titles may be restrictive and exclusive, you can forgo them and simply use first and last names. It is important to consider the preferences of the couple and their guests and always double-check their preferred titles beforehand.

Format

Wedding invitations typically consist of an outer envelope and an inner envelope. The outer envelope should be more formal, including the recipient's full name(s) and personal title(s). The inner envelope is more informal, allowing you to leave out certain elements of the formal name format, such as last names or titles.

Other Details

Other details to include in the invitation are the wedding date, time, and venue address. You may also want to include an RSVP card and envelope. If you are creating bilingual invitations, ensure that all the information is presented in both languages.

Frequently asked questions