Planning Islamic Wedding Invitations: Where To Begin

Islamic wedding invitations are often imbued with religious and cultural motifs and symbols. The most common symbol is Bismillah, meaning 'in the name of Allah', but the Star and Crescent and simple Allah symbol are also popular. The invitation or wedding card should be issued in the hosts' names, but both sets of parents should be named to emphasise the union of the two families. The card might also include the name of a grandparent or other respected relative.

There are many opportunities to use religious language, with some invitations inviting guests to the nikah ceremony or the walima celebration, and including verses from the Quran or Hadith. The phrase 'In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful' is often written at the top of the card, sometimes in Arabic as 'Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem'.

Islamic wedding invitation wording

Islamic wedding invitations are incredibly diverse, reflecting the variety of Muslim communities around the world. The wording of the invitation is an opportunity to honour family members, express Muslim values, and provide essential information to guests. Here are some ideas for Islamic wedding invitation wording:

Option 1:

"In the name of Allah, the most beneficent and most merciful". Mr. [Father's Name] & Mrs. [Mother's Name] request the pleasure of your company and blessings to celebrate the Walima Ceremony of their beloved daughter [Bride's Name] and beloved son of Mr. [Groom's Father's Name] & Mrs. [Groom's Mother's Name] on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue and Location].

Option 2:

Beginning with the name of Allah, the most beneficent and merciful, "May the Almighty grant this couple all the success in their Marriage and bestow upon them good health, wealth, Imaan, and guidance to follow the straight path as shown." -Aameen-

Mr. [Father's Name] & Mrs. [Mother's Name] request the honour of your presence on the joyous occasion of the wedding ceremony of their beloved daughter [Bride's Name] to [Groom's Name], son of Mr. [Groom's Father's Name] & Mrs. [Groom's Mother's Name]. Please join us for the celebration on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue and Location].

Option 3:

In the name of Allah, the most merciful and the most gracious. Allah decided their marriage in heaven, and we would like to celebrate it on earth. May Allah bless their marriage and bless them with happiness and healthy children (Amin).

Together with their families, [Bride's Name], daughter of Mr. [Bride's Father's Name] and Mrs. [Bride's Mother's Name], and [Groom's Name], son of Mr. [Groom's Father's Name] and Mrs. [Groom's Mother's Name], invite you to join them in celebration on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue and Location].

Option 4:

In the name of Allah, the most beneficent and merciful. Oh Allah, guide this marriage with the best of understanding, happiness, prosperity, and success. Ameen!

Mr. [Father's Name] & Mrs. [Mother's Name] request your loving presence to shower your blessings on the auspicious occasion of the wedding of their beloved son [Groom's Name], son of Mr. [Groom's Father's Name] and Mrs. [Groom's Mother's Name], on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue and Location].

Using religious language

Muslim wedding invitations can be designed in a variety of ways, depending on the couple's preferences and cultural background. Here are some tips and suggestions for using religious language in Islamic wedding invitations:

The invitation's wording is an opportunity to honour family members, express Muslim values, and provide a sacred feeling to the event. The following are some ways to incorporate religious language into your Islamic wedding invitations:

• Beginning with "Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem": This phrase, meaning "In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful", is often written at the top of Muslim wedding invitations. It can be in the original Arabic ("Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem"), as a transliteration ("Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem"), or in quotes or italics in English. This phrase sets a sacred tone for the invitation.
• Inviting Guests to the Nikah Ceremony or Walima Celebration: Depending on which event is being emphasised, the invitation can specifically invite guests to the nikah ceremony or the walima celebration. This provides clear information to the guests about which part of the wedding they are invited to attend.
• Including Verses from the Quran or Hadith: Muslim wedding invitations may include religious quotes or verses. For example, you can add verses about love and marriage, such as "And we created you in pairs" (Quran 78:8) or "And it is among His signs that He created for you partners from among yourselves, so that you may find peace in them, and He has created love and kindness between you" (Quran 30:21). These quotes add a spiritual dimension to the invitation.
• Mentioning Specific Religious Symbols: While "Bismillah" is the most common religious symbol on Muslim wedding invitations, other options include the Star and Crescent or a simple Allah symbol. These symbols can be incorporated into the design or mentioned in the text to add a subtle religious element to the invitation.
• Honouring Family Members: In addition to the couple, Muslim wedding invitations traditionally include the names of both sets of parents, emphasising the union of the two families. The names of grandparents or other respected relatives can also be included if the couple wishes to honour them.

Remember that the religious language and content of Muslim wedding invitations can vary based on cultural backgrounds and personal preferences. The above suggestions provide a starting point, but feel free to customise and adapt them to reflect your unique Muslim heritage and values.

Design and colour

The design of your Islamic wedding invitation should reflect the theme and nature of the celebration itself. If your wedding will be a formal, elegant affair, then opt for simple, dramatic colours like gold, cream, navy, or black. If you’re planning a traditional, vibrantly decorated wedding ceremony, then choose an invitation that matches that theme.

Muslim wedding invitations can come in any colour, shape, or size and can incorporate styles like rustic, beach, romantic, and floral. The most common wedding symbol is Bismillah, meaning 'in the name of Allah', but the Star and Crescent and simple Allah symbol are also popular.

Consider incorporating traditional calligraphy of both your names or use patterned designs that reflect your ethnic heritage. In recent years, sending wedding invitations in the form of miniature scrolls has become popular.

• Gold and cream
• Gold and white
• Gold and navy
• Black and gold
• Gold and burgundy
• Gold and black
• Gold and green
• Gold and blue
• Gold and pink
• Gold and purple
• Gold and red
• Gold and teal
• Gold and olive
• Gold and ivory
• Gold and mauve
• Gold and brown
• Gold and grey
• Gold and marble
• Gold and eucalyptus
• Gold and sage
• Gold and rose
• Gold and plum

Cultural motifs and symbols

Islamic motifs and symbols are rich with meaning and history, and they can add a beautiful touch to any Muslim wedding invitation. Here are some ideas for cultural motifs and symbols to include in your Islamic wedding invitations:

Bismillah

Bismillah is a phrase that appears at the beginning of every chapter in the Quran, and it means "In the name of Allah". It is often written on Muslim wedding invitations as "In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful". This phrase is a powerful reminder that everything we do should be done in the name of Allah. Including Bismillah on your wedding invitation is a way to seek Allah’s blessings for your marriage and to show your commitment to Islam.

The Crescent Moon and Star

The crescent moon and star are iconic symbols of Islam and have been used in Islamic art and architecture for centuries. In Muslim weddings, these symbols often represent the bride and groom, respectively. They can be incorporated into the invitation design in various ways, such as in the background or as a centrepiece.

The Kaaba

The Kaaba is the most sacred site in Islam, located in the city of Mecca. It is the direction in which Muslims face when they pray and is a symbol of unity and faith. Including an image of the Kaaba on your wedding invitation pays homage to this sacred site and emphasises the importance of faith in your marriage.

Calligraphy

Calligraphy is an art form that has been integral to Islamic culture for centuries. It is often used to write Quranic verses and other Islamic texts. Incorporating calligraphy into your wedding invitation design adds elegance and tradition to your invitation. You can use calligraphy for both your names or other important information on the invitation.

Islamic Geometric Patterns

Islamic geometric patterns are intricate designs made up of a series of geometric shapes arranged symmetrically. These patterns are often used in Islamic art and architecture and can add visual interest to your wedding invitation design. They showcase the beauty and complexity of Islamic art.

When incorporating Islamic symbols into your wedding invitation design, it is important to choose symbols that are meaningful to you and your partner. Consider the aspects of Islam and your culture that you want to highlight, and select symbols that reflect those values. Keep the design simple and elegant, and don't forget to include clear and concise text with all the important details about your wedding.

Parent and family names

Islamic wedding invitations vary across different Muslim communities and are influenced by the couple's unique heritage and culture. However, there are some common elements and considerations to keep in mind when including parent and family names in Islamic wedding invitations.

Firstly, it is important to recognise that the invitation or wedding card should ideally be issued in the hosts' names, typically the parents of the couple. This follows the general etiquette of wedding invitations and emphasises the union of the two families. For example, the invitation may be worded as "Mr and Mrs [parents of bride] request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter [bride] to [groom], son of Mr and Mrs [parents of groom]."

In some cases, the couple may choose to include additional family members, such as grandparents or other respected relatives, to honour them on the invitation. This is entirely optional and depends on the couple's preferences and family dynamics.

It is also worth noting that Islamic wedding invitations may vary in terms of religious language and cultural motifs. Some invitations may include verses from the Quran or Hadith, while others may use more general terms like "wedding" and "wedding reception." The level of religious and cultural inclusion depends on the couple's preferences and the extent to which they want to incorporate their Muslim values into the invitation.

When including parent and family names, it is essential to consider the cultural and religious background of the couple and their families. Different Muslim communities may have specific traditions or expectations regarding the format and content of wedding invitations. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with family members or cultural advisors to ensure that the invitations are respectful and accurate.

Overall, the inclusion of parent and family names in Islamic wedding invitations is a way to honour the union of two families and celebrate the couple's heritage and cultural traditions. By following general guidelines and considering specific cultural nuances, couples can create meaningful and respectful invitations that set the tone for their special day.

Frequently asked questions