Crafting The Perfect Wedding Invite: A Step-By-Step Guide

Wedding invitations are an important part of the wedding planning process. They give your guests a glimpse into what they can expect on the big day and provide them with essential information. The wording and design of your wedding invitations can vary depending on the level of formality you wish to convey, but there are some key elements that should be included to ensure your guests have all the details they need. From the host line to the dress code, here's a guide to help you craft the perfect wedding invitation.

What to include in your wedding invite

Wedding invitations are more than just a simple letter in the mail. They are a chance to give your guests a preview of your special day and include all the essential details. Here is what to include in your wedding invite:

The Host Line

The opening line on a wedding invitation names the hosts of the event. If multiple parties are hosting, you only need to include names if you want a formal feel. If the couple is hosting themselves, this line can be omitted. Traditionally, the bride's parents are the hosts, but nowadays, it is becoming more common for couples to host their own weddings or to host together with their parents. Here are some examples of wording for the host line:

• "Together with their families"
• "Together with our families"
• "Together with their parents"

The Attendance Request

The attendance request lets guests know exactly what they are being invited to. This is where you can set the tone for your celebration. Here are some examples:

• "The honour of your presence" (traditionally used to denote a religious service)
• "The pleasure of your company" (used to denote a non-religious ceremony)
• "Invite you to celebrate with them"
• "Would love for you to join them"

The Couple's Names

The names of the couple are usually displayed in larger text and sometimes in a fancy typeface. For different-sex couples, the bride's name typically goes first, followed by the groom's name. For same-sex couples, you can list the names alphabetically or based on what looks best with the design.

The Date and Time

Traditional wedding invitation wording requires the date and time to be spelled out in full, while numerical figures are often used on modern invites. Be sure to use a legible font to avoid confusion. The day of the week and the month should be capitalised, and the year should be in lowercase. The time of day should be spelled out, e.g. "four o'clock" or "half after four o'clock".

The Location

Write the name and full street address of your wedding venue, including the city, state, and zip code. If your wedding is taking place abroad, include the country as well. If the reception is at the same location, you can simply say, "Reception to follow". If the reception is elsewhere, include the full address on a separate details card tucked into the invitation.

Optional Details

Including dress code information is not compulsory but can be helpful for guests. You can mention the dress code in the lower corner or bottom centre of the invite, or use a details card or wedding website to share this information. You can also include your wedding website and wedding registry information on a separate insert card.

How to word your wedding invite

The wording of your wedding invitation will depend on the type of wedding you're having, the hosts, and the tone you want to set. Here are some tips and examples to help you craft the perfect invitation:

The Host

The first line of your wedding invitation is usually dedicated to the host of the wedding, traditionally the bride's parents. However, nowadays, the groom's parents, the couple, or a combination of all three may contribute. It's up to you to decide whose names to include and in what order. If you have step-parents or divorced/remarried parents, you can include them as well. Here are some examples:

• "Mr. & Mrs. Flores, Mr. & Mrs. Hill, Mr. & Mrs. Byrne, and Mr. & Mrs. Lin request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of Talia Flores & Stephen Byrne."
• "Mr. & Mrs. Jon Flores and Mr. Tom Byrne & the late Mrs. Nancy Byrne request the honour of your company at the marriage of their children Talia Flores & Stephen Byrne."
• "Together with their parents, [Couple's names] invite you to celebrate their wedding."

The Request

The next part of the invitation is the request for the guest's presence at the wedding. The wording can vary depending on the formality of the event and who is hosting. Here are some options:

• "Request the honour of your presence" (traditionally used for religious ceremonies)
• "Request the pleasure of your company" (for non-religious ceremonies)
• "Invite you to celebrate with them"
• "Would love for you to join them"
• "Invite you to share in their joy"

The Couple's Names

The names of the couple are typically included in the request part of the invitation. For different-sex couples, the bride's name usually comes first, followed by the groom's full name. For same-sex couples, you can arrange the names alphabetically or in the order that sounds best. Here are some examples:

• "Request the honour of your presence at the marriage of Talia Camila Flores and Stephen Anthony Byrne"
• "Talia Flores and Stephen Byrne invite you to a celebration of their love and commitment"
• "Together with their parents, Lydia Harrison and William Jones invite you to join them at the celebration of their marriage"

Date, Time, and Location

Be sure to include the date, time, and location of the wedding ceremony and reception (if separate). Spell out the date and time in full for a traditional feel, or use numerals for a more casual approach. Include the full address for formal invitations, or just the venue and city if you prefer a simpler look. Here are some examples:

• "Saturday, the eleventh of June two thousand and twenty-three at twelve o'clock in the afternoon, Arctic Club Hotel, 700 Third Avenue, Seattle, Washington. Reception to follow."
• "June 11, 2024, 12:00 pm, Arctic Club Hotel, 700 Third Avenue, Seattle, Washington. Dinner and dancing to follow."

Additional Information

You may also want to include other details such as the dress code, RSVP information, gift registry, dietary restrictions, and any post-ceremony plans. This information can be included on a separate card or your wedding website.

• "Reception immediately following at [location]"
• "Dinner and dancing to follow"
• "An evening of celebration to follow"

How to assemble your wedding invite

The process of assembling your wedding invites might seem daunting, but it's actually quite straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create elegant and informative invites for your big day.

Step 1: Prepare the Materials

Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials, including the invitation cards, envelopes, tissue paper or vellum, response cards, and any other enclosures like map cards or accommodation details. It's also a good idea to have some snacks and drinks on hand if you plan to assemble the invites with friends or family.

Step 2: Address and Stamp the Envelopes

Start by addressing and stamping both the inner and outer envelopes. This ensures that there won't be any unsightly indentations on the invitation cards themselves. Remember to include the names of the invited guests, the mailing address, and your return address.

Step 3: Assemble the Invitation Suite

Now, it's time to assemble the invitation suite itself. Place the invitation card face-up, as it is usually the largest card in the suite. If you're using tissue paper or vellum, place it on top of the invitation card. Then, add the reception card, followed by any additional enclosure cards. If your invitation is a folded-style, place these enclosures within the fold rather than on top.

Step 4: Add the Response Card and Envelope

Place the response envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the left. Insert the response card under the envelope flap, face-up, so that the printed side is visible. Remember to pre-address and stamp the response envelope to make it easier for your guests to reply.

Step 5: Insert into the Inner Envelope

If you're using an inner envelope, insert the assembled invitation suite into it, with the left edge or folded edge going in first. The printed side of the invitation should be visible when the envelope flap is opened.

Step 6: Insert into the Outer Envelope

Finally, place the inner envelope into the outer envelope, making sure that the guests' names are visible when the envelope is opened. Seal the outer envelope, and your invite is ready to be mailed!

Optional Embellishments:

You can also add some extra touches to your invites, such as belly bands, ribbons, or wax seals. These can be used to secure the different pieces of the invitation suite together and give it a more luxurious feel.

When to send your wedding invite

The timing of sending out your wedding invites is an important part of the planning process. Here is a detailed guide on when to send them out:

Destination Wedding

If your wedding is a destination wedding, it is considered proper etiquette to send out your invitations 12 weeks before the wedding date. This gives your guests enough time to make the necessary travel arrangements.

Local Wedding

For local weddings, the general rule of thumb is to send out invitations 6-8 weeks in advance. This gives your guests ample time to plan around the wedding, whether that involves finding a babysitter or making other arrangements.

Save the Dates

Save the dates are usually sent out much earlier than the invitations. For destination weddings, they are typically sent 8-12 months in advance, while for local weddings, they are sent 4-10 months in advance.

Ordering Invitations

It is recommended to order your invitations 4-9 months before the wedding date. This allows time for any potential delays and gives each vendor enough time to work on them.

RSVP Deadlines

The deadline for guests to RSVP is usually set for 2-3 weeks before the wedding date. This gives you enough time to finalise the seating chart and provide the caterer with an accurate headcount.

In summary, the timing of sending out wedding invites depends on the type of wedding, with destination weddings requiring earlier notice. Following these guidelines will ensure your guests have sufficient time to plan and will help you stay organised during the wedding planning process.

How to address your wedding invite envelopes

So, you've picked a date, chosen a venue, and designed your wedding invitations. Now, it's time to address your envelopes. Here are some tips to ensure your invitations reach their intended recipients:

Be Mindful of Titles and Full Names

When addressing your guests, be sure to use their full names and appropriate titles. For example, for a single or married woman, use "Miss" or "Ms." respectively, followed by their full name. For a married couple, use "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the husband's full name. If one partner is a doctor, you can use "Doctor [Name] and Mr. [Name]" or "Mrs. [Name] and Doctor [Name]."

Avoid Abbreviations

While it may be tempting to abbreviate words to save space, avoid doing so in the addresses. Spell out all words, including directions (North, South, East, West) and street types (Avenue, Boulevard, Road). The only exception to this rule is professional titles, such as "Doctor."

Provide Clear RSVP Instructions

Include a reply card and a stamped, addressed envelope with each invitation. The reply card should have a deadline for responses, typically two to three weeks before the wedding, to give you enough time to finalise numbers with your caterer.

Send Invitations Early

Give your guests ample time to plan, especially if they need to make travel arrangements or find childcare. Send invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding for local guests and 12 weeks in advance for a destination wedding.

Be Concise

While it's important to include key details, avoid overloading your envelopes with text. Too much information can overwhelm your guests and detract from the design. Provide essential information on the invitation and use insert cards or your wedding website for additional details.

Order Extra Envelopes

It's always a good idea to order extra envelopes in case of mistakes or last-minute additions to your guest list. Aim for 15-25 extras to avoid any last-minute stresses.

Frequently asked questions