Etiquette Guide: Listing Boys On Wedding Invites

Wedding planning can be stressful, especially when it comes to finalising the guest list. One of the most challenging aspects is deciding who to invite and how to address the invitations. When it comes to listing boys, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to use the correct titles and names. For unmarried couples, list each name on a separate line, with the person you are closest to or in alphabetical order. For married couples, put their names on the same line, with the wife's name preceding the husband's. In same-sex marriages, alphabetical order can be used or personal preference, whichever feels most comfortable for the couple. It is also essential to consider the age of the boys and whether they are invited as plus-ones or part of a family.

How to list boys under 18 on wedding invites

When addressing wedding invitations, it's important to follow certain etiquette to ensure your guests feel welcome. Here are some tips on how to list boys under 18 on your wedding invites:

Outer Envelope:

On the outer envelope, list the names of the parents or guardians. For example, if you're inviting a family with young children, write the names of the parents or guardians on the outer envelope. Their names should follow formal etiquette, including their personal titles and full names.

Inner Envelope:

On the inner envelope, list each child's name separately. Boys under 16 don't need a title, while girls under 18 can be addressed as "Miss" if desired. For example, if the parents' names are "Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham," the inner envelope could read: "Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany, and Mx. Kelly."

Age Considerations:

If any of the children in the family are 18 or older, they should receive their own invitations, especially if they don't live at home with their parents. You can choose to use titles or not, but ensure you use the correct identifiers.

Informal Option:

If you prefer a more casual approach, you can use first names only or forgo personal titles altogether. This applies to both the outer and inner envelopes.

Clarity on Children's Invitation:

It's important to note that if you don't include each child's name, it may imply that children are not invited. To avoid confusion, be clear about your children's invitation policy through word-of-mouth or on your wedding website.

With these guidelines in mind, you can confidently list boys under 18 on your wedding invites, ensuring that your guests feel welcomed and celebrated on your special day.

How to list boys with distinguished titles

When addressing wedding invitations, it is important to use the correct titles, especially when inviting guests with distinguished titles. Here are some guidelines on how to list boys with distinguished titles:

Doctors

For male doctors, use "Dr." followed by their name. If they are married, list the doctor first, regardless of gender. You can use "Doctor" spelled out or abbreviated. For example:

> Dr. John Smith and Mrs. Jane Smith

> Dr. John Smith and Dr. Jane Smith

Military Personnel

For male military personnel, use their specific rank followed by their name and "US" and the branch of the military. For example:

> Lieutenant John Kelly, US Navy

If both spouses are in the military, list their ranks and names side by side. For example:

> Captains Jane and John Kelly, US Navy

Lawyers

For lawyers, use their name followed by "Esq.". For example:

> John Smith, Esq.

If both spouses are lawyers, list them side by side. For example:

> Michelle Brown, Esq. and John Brown, Esq.

Judges

For judges, use "The Honorable" followed by their name. If they are married, list the judge first, regardless of gender. For example:

> The Honorable John Smith and Mrs. Jane Smith

If the judge is single and has a guest, add "and guest" in lowercase. For example:

> The Honorable John Smith and guest

These guidelines will help ensure that boys with distinguished titles are listed correctly on wedding invitations, following proper etiquette.

How to list boys with plus-ones

When it comes to wedding invites, there are no set rules, and every wedding is different. However, there are some general guidelines and tips you can follow when it comes to listing boys with plus-ones. Here are some detailed instructions to help you navigate this aspect of your wedding planning:

Know the Basics

Start by understanding that a "plus-one" typically refers to an additional guest or date brought by an invited guest to a wedding. It is not usually an open invitation to bring any friend. Plus-ones are commonly offered to unmarried guests, giving them the opportunity to bring a date. It is also a thoughtful gesture for out-of-town guests who may not know many other attendees, as well as members of the bridal party.

Create a Guest List

Begin by creating an "A-list" of guests who you absolutely want to invite and who should receive a plus-one option. This list typically includes members of the couple's immediate family, the bridal party, and guests who won't know many other attendees. If budget and space allow, you can also extend plus-ones to couples who are engaged, live together, or are in a serious relationship.

Be Mindful of Budget and Space Constraints

Recognise that offering plus-ones to all guests may not be feasible due to budget and space limitations. It is perfectly acceptable to have guests who receive solo invites. If you are working with a limited budget or venue capacity, create a "B-list" of guests you would like to include if possible. Assign plus-ones to the "B-list" guests only if your budget and space allow after accommodating the "A-list."

Invitation Wording and Etiquette

When addressing invitations to single guests granted a plus-one, you have a few options:

• Address the invitation to the primary guest's name and "invited guest."
• Address the invitation to the primary guest only and include a plus-one note inside with the RSVP card.

If you are inviting unmarried couples who live together, address both parties on the outer and inner invitation envelopes. If they live separately, each party should receive their own addressed invitation. If you are unsure of the relationship status, it is best to use "invited guest" instead of assuming a plus-one.

Manage RSVPs and Seating Arrangements

In your RSVP cards, be clear about the number of seats reserved for each guest. You can include a checkbox for attendance next to the guest's name or a line indicating the number of seats reserved. This helps prevent confusion and unexpected plus-ones. Additionally, consider creating a seating chart that fosters a comfortable dynamic for solo guests. Place them between friendly couples to create a communal feel and help them meet people organically.

Communicate with Your Guests

If a guest reaches out about bringing a plus-one, don't be afraid to inquire about the requested addition. Relationships may have progressed, and it's thoughtful to include serious partners. However, if you truly don't have the space, it's okay to kindly decline, preferably over the phone or in person. You can explain that it is an intimate affair, and they will understand your decision.

How to list boys alphabetically

When listing boys' names alphabetically on wedding invites, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to use the correct titles when addressing the boys. For boys under 16, no title is needed, but for boys 16 and older, "Mr." is appropriate.

Secondly, the outer envelope of the wedding invite should be formal and include the full name of the recipient, including their personal title. This is followed by the inner envelope, which is more informal, allowing for more flexibility in the naming format.

When listing boys' names alphabetically, start by writing out the full names, including titles, of each boy you plan to invite. Then, rearrange the list in alphabetical order by last name. For example, "Mr. Adam Hollis" would come before "Mr. Aaron Wong."

Finally, transfer the alphabetically ordered list to the envelopes, following the appropriate formatting for the outer and inner envelopes as mentioned above.

Remember to give yourself enough time to assemble the invitations and double-check the details before sending them out.

How to list boys on B-list invites

Creating a B-list for your wedding is a great way to ensure your celebration is filled with family and friends. Here are some tips for listing boys on your B-list invites:

Timing is Everything

It is important to send out your A-list invitations first, typically 10-12 weeks in advance, with an RSVP deadline of around eight weeks. Once you start receiving responses, you can send out your B-list invites. Ideally, send these eight weeks before the wedding with an RSVP deadline of four weeks. This way, you give your B-list guests enough time to plan and respond.

Be Organised and Discrete

It is a good idea to prepare your B-list at the same time as your A-list. This way, you can send out the B-list invites as soon as you start receiving declines from your A-list. Ensure you have enough invites ready for your B-list guests. It is also crucial to keep your B-list discrete to avoid any potential hurt feelings.

Prioritise your B-list

When creating your B-list, place those guests who feel important and you would love to include at the top. These could be close friends or family members. Towards the bottom of the list, include those who would be nice to have but are not essential.

Be Honest and Gracious

If a guest finds out they were on your B-list, be honest and gracious about it. Explain that your wedding guest list was restricted, and you needed to stagger the invitation process while waiting for RSVPs. Let them know you are happy for them to attend.

Digital RSVPs

To streamline the process, consider opting for digital RSVPs via your wedding website. This method is faster and more reliable than reply cards through the post. Ensure the wording on your website is appropriate and does not give away the existence of multiple guest lists.

Frequently asked questions