Writing Vietnamese Wedding Invitations: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding is a stressful task, especially when it comes to writing wedding invitations. If you're looking to write a Vietnamese wedding invitation, you might be interested in creating a bilingual invitation, with the invitation in Vietnamese on one side and English on the other. You could also include Chinese, depending on your preferences and your guests. When it comes to the wording, it's important to note that in Vietnamese culture, the invitation usually comes from the parents, and the couple getting married is referred to as their children. The invitation also mentions the two sides of the family and their addresses, and it uses the word ceremony in a generic sense, regardless of the setting.

Bilingual Vietnamese-English invitations

When creating bilingual Vietnamese-English wedding invitations, it is important to consider the cultural differences between the two languages. For example, in Vietnamese culture, the invitation is an announcement, whereas in American culture, the invitation states who is hosting by listing the host at the top.

Host of the Wedding

As per Vietnamese tradition, the invitation should come from the parents of the couple, especially if the guests are elders. In American culture, it is more common for the couple to host their own wedding.

Names of the Couple

The names of the couple should be included in both languages. If the invitation is coming from the parents, it is customary in Vietnamese to write: " [The parents] invite you to the wedding of [us]" or " [The parents] invite you to join us in celebrating the wedding reception of [the couple's names]".

Date, Time, and Location

The date, time, and location of the wedding should be provided in both languages. It is customary in Chinese culture to include the wedding date in both the Gregorian and Lunar calendars. The time can be written in the 12-hour clock format, followed by "pm" or "am" in English, and in the 24-hour clock format in Vietnamese.

RSVP Information

Provide an RSVP date and instructions on how to respond in both languages. It is also a nice touch to include a link to a wedding website, if applicable.

Design and Format

Consider using a template or hiring a designer to create a visually appealing invitation. Some popular design elements include floral patterns, cherry blossoms, and traditional colours such as red, pink, and gold.

[Name of Host]

Cordially invites you to the wedding of

[Couple's Names]

Date:

[Date in Gregorian Calendar]

[Date in Lunar Calendar]

Time:

5:00 pm

Location:

[Name and Address of Venue]

Xin vui lòng phúc đáp trước ngày [RSVP Date]

Please RSVP by [RSVP Date]

For more information and to RSVP, visit: [Wedding Website]

Who to address the invitation to

When it comes to addressing the wedding invitation, it is important to consider the cultural expectations and traditions of the couple and their families. In the case of a Vietnamese wedding invitation, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is considered respectful to address the invitation to the parents of the couple, rather than the couple themselves, especially if the invitees are elders. This is because, traditionally, marriage was dictated by the parents, and including them in the invitation is a way to show honour and respect. For example, the invitation could be worded as " [The parents] invite you to the wedding of [the couple]..."

Secondly, it is customary to include the names and titles of the guests you are inviting, such as "Dear Uncle [Name]" or "Mr. and Mrs. [Name]". If you are inviting a married couple, you can use the Vietnamese term "夫婦", which can be translated as "together" in the bilingual invitation. If you are inviting the entire family, you can add "阖府" or "all together" after the name of the invitation receiver.

Additionally, it is important to consider the cultural expectations of the guests' families. In some cases, the bride's family may include wedding cake cards in the invitations, while the groom's family may include red packets with cash gifts for their guests. These traditions are not mandatory but can be a thoughtful way to honour the couple's culture and show respect to the guests.

Finally, it is worth noting that the format and wording of Vietnamese wedding invitations may vary depending on the region and personal preferences of the couple and their families. It is always a good idea to consult with the families, especially the elders, to ensure that the invitation is culturally appropriate and respectful.

How to address elders

When addressing elders in a Vietnamese wedding invitation, it is important to follow certain cultural norms and traditions to show respect. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

The Role of Parents

It is considered respectful to have the invitation come from the parents of the couple, especially when inviting elder Vietnamese guests. This tradition stems from the past when marriages were typically arranged by parents. While modern couples may choose to send invitations themselves, involving the parents is still a way to honour and include them in the process.

Honourifics and Titles

Using honorifics and titles when addressing elders is essential. For example, when inviting an uncle, it is appropriate to use a term such as "Dear Uncle" ("伯父大人" in Chinese) before their full name. This shows respect and leaves a good impression.

Spouse or Whole Family

The invitation should clearly indicate whether you are inviting just the elder, their spouse, or their whole family. If inviting their spouse, be sure to include both their titles, names, and relationship to each other. For example, the term "married couple" ("夫妇" or "伉俪" in Chinese) can be used, or simply the word "together" to sound more natural in the bilingual invitation. If you are inviting the whole family, you can add terms like "whole family" or "all together" after the name of the invitation recipient.

Delivery Method

Distributing invitations in person, especially to elders, is highly recommended as a sign of respect. However, if your guests live far away or overseas, sending the invitations by mail is also acceptable.

Bilingual Invitation

If your guests include a mix of Vietnamese and English speakers, it is considerate to create a bilingual invitation. This ensures that all guests can understand the information and feel respected. You can include both the Vietnamese and English wording on the invitation, or provide separate invitations in each language.

Cultural Differences

It is important to note that Vietnamese and English wedding invitations can differ significantly in their wording and format. For example, Vietnamese invitations may name the two families and their addresses or hometowns, and they may refer to the wedding ceremony generically as a "ceremony" regardless of the setting. Additionally, Vietnamese invitations often state that the parents have the honour of announcing the marriage of their children, rather than requesting the honour of the guests' presence or company. Understanding these cultural differences will help you create invitations that are sensitive to Vietnamese traditions.

What information to include

When creating a Vietnamese wedding invitation, it is important to consider the cultural nuances and traditions that should be reflected in the content and format of the invitation. Here is some detailed information to include when writing a Vietnamese wedding invitation:

Names and Roles of the Hosts

In Vietnamese culture, it is customary for the parents of the couple to host the wedding and send out the invitations. Therefore, the invitation should begin with the names of the bride's and groom's parents as the hosts, followed by a phrase indicating that they are inviting the guests to the wedding of their children. This can be translated as " [The parents' names] invite you to the wedding of [the couple's names]." If the couple is hosting the wedding themselves, an appropriate phrase could be Together with their families, [couple's names] invite you to their wedding."

Guest's Name and Honourifics

When addressing the guests, it is important to use honorifics, especially when inviting elder relatives. For example, when inviting an uncle, it is respectful to use a phrase such as "Dear Uncle [name]." Additionally, specify whether you are inviting their spouse or the whole family. If inviting their spouse, include both of their titles, names, and relationship. For example, " [Guest's name] and [spouse's name], a married couple." If you are inviting the whole family, you can add a phrase like "and family" after the primary guest's name.

Date, Time, and Location

Be sure to include the wedding date, time, and location details. Provide the full address of the venue, including the city and state, to ensure that guests can easily find it. You may also want to include the wedding website or a link to an online map for additional information and directions.

RSVP Information

Include a request for guests to RSVP by a specific date to facilitate your planning. Provide contact information, such as a phone number, email address, or wedding website, where guests can respond. This will help you get an accurate headcount for catering and seating arrangements.

Bilingual or Multilingual Format

If you are inviting guests who speak different languages, consider creating a bilingual or multilingual invitation. You can have one side of the invitation in Vietnamese and the other side in English or another language. This ensures that all guests can understand the details of the wedding and feel included.

Cultural Symbols and Designs

Enhance the visual appeal of your invitation by incorporating traditional Vietnamese cultural symbols and designs. Consider using colours such as red and gold, which are often associated with happiness and prosperity in Vietnamese culture. You may also want to include symbols like the "double happiness" character or images of dragons and phoenixes, which are traditional motifs in Vietnamese wedding invitations.

When to send the invitations

When to send your Vietnamese wedding invitations depends on whether you are following Western or Chinese wedding traditions.

If you are following Western wedding traditions, "save the date" cards are sent out 4-6 months before the wedding, and wedding invitations are typically sent 6-8 weeks before the big day.

However, if you are following Chinese wedding traditions, there is no "save the date" card. Only the wedding invitation cards are sent to announce the wedding to friends and family. In this case, it is customary to send out invitations three months before the wedding. This is also a courtesy if you need more time to prepare the invitations after the Chinese engagement ceremony, "过大礼" (which translates to "betrothal gifts").

If you are hosting a Chinese-American wedding, it is important to include a few cultural elements in your invitations. These may include red envelopes embossed with a "double happiness" sign, wedding cake cards for the bride's guests, and optional red packets filled with cash as a gift for the groom's guests.

Frequently asked questions