Islamic Wedding Invitation Etiquette: A Guide To Writing Yours

Islamic wedding invitations vary across different Muslim communities around the world, from South East Asian to Arab, African, and Black communities. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are some general guidelines and traditions to follow when writing an Islamic wedding invitation. Here are some key considerations to help you craft a meaningful and culturally appropriate invitation for your special day:

Wording and Language:

The invitation should ideally be issued in the hosts' names, usually the parents of the couple, to emphasise the union of the two families. It is common to include religious language and verses from the Quran or Hadith. The phrase In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful is often written at the beginning, either in quotes, italics, or in the original Arabic as Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.

Information to Include:

The invitation should include all the relevant details such as the names of the couple, the date, time, and venue of the wedding. If there are specific cultural or religious rituals being performed, such as the nikah ceremony, it is a good idea to mention them. It is also important to provide any dress code or reception information that guests should be aware of.

Design and Aesthetics:

The design of the invitation should reflect the theme and nature of the wedding celebration. If it is a formal and elegant affair, consider using simple and dramatic colours like gold, cream, navy, or black. If it is a traditional and vibrant wedding, choose colours and patterns that match the ethnic heritage of the couple. Calligraphy, either in Arabic or English, is also a popular choice for Islamic wedding invitations.

Remember, the most important aspect is to ensure that the invitation reflects the spirit and values of your wedding while providing guests with all the necessary information. Feel free to personalise and customise your invitations to make them unique and special.

What to include in the invitation

Islamic wedding invitations are as varied as the many Muslim communities around the world. However, there are some common elements that you may wish to include.

The invitation should reflect the spirit of your wedding and be in theme with the event. It should also include all relevant information for your guests.

The invitation should be issued in the hosts' names, usually the parents of the couple. It is ideal to name both sets of parents to emphasise the union of the two families. Some couples might also include the name of a grandparent or other respected relative they wish to honour.

You may want to include religious language, such as verses from the Quran or Hadith, and invite guests to the nikah ceremony or the walima celebration. The phrase, "In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful", is often written at the top of the invitation, sometimes in Arabic: "Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem".

If your wedding includes traditional ceremonies at specific times, such as the baraat procession, note the particular time on the invitation. If the ceremony is taking place in a mosque, you may want to inform guests of any requirements, such as covering their shoulders or hair.

The design of your invitation should reflect the theme and nature of the celebration. If your wedding will be a formal, elegant affair, consider simple, dramatic colours like gold, cream, navy, or black. If you're planning a traditional, vibrantly decorated wedding, choose an invitation that matches that theme. You could also incorporate traditional calligraphy or patterned designs that reflect your ethnic heritage.

Sample Wording

"In the name of Allah, the most beneficent and most merciful

Mr. and Mrs. [Parent Names]

Request the honour of your presence

At the marriage of their daughter [Bride]

To [Groom]

Son of Mr. and Mrs. [Groom's Parents]

[Date]

[Venue]

[Location]"

Quotes

You might also want to include a traditional religious quote on your invitation. Here are some examples:

"And we created you in pairs" (Quran 78:8)

"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)

"Exalted is He who created all pairs" (Quran 36:36)

The invitation design

The design of an Islamic wedding invitation should reflect the spirit of the wedding and the couple's unique Muslim heritage. The invitation should also be in keeping with the theme and nature of the celebration. For instance, if the wedding will be a formal, elegant affair, consider using simple, dramatic colours like gold, cream, navy, or black. On the other hand, if it's going to be a traditional, vibrant celebration, then opt for an invitation that matches that theme with bright colours and patterns.

There are many opportunities to incorporate traditional Muslim elements into the design. Some couples choose to include patterned designs that reflect their ethnic heritage or incorporate traditional calligraphy of their names. Sending invitations in the form of miniature scrolls has also become a popular choice in recent years.

The invitation card can also include Islamic dates and verses. For example, the phrase, "In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful", is often written at the top of the invitation, sometimes in Arabic ("Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem"). Including verses from the Quran or Hadith is another way to add a sacred and traditional feeling to the invitation.

• Use script, foil accents, and sparkle for a formal wedding.
• Opt for rustic invitations with muted hues, barnwood graphics, and straightforward typography for a more relaxed affair.
• Include the names of the hosts (usually both sets of parents), the couple getting married, the wedding date, time, venue, and any post-ceremony plans.
• Consider adding reception attire expectations and an RSVP deadline with contact information.
• Incorporate patterned designs or traditional calligraphy that reflects the couple's cultural heritage.
• Use miniature scrolls or unique card shapes and sizes to make it more interesting.

Remember, the invitation design sets the tone for the event, so choose a style that truly represents the couple and the celebration.

Using religious language

Islamic wedding invitations can be written in many different ways, depending on the couple's preferences and the specific cultural context. Here are some tips and examples to help you write Islamic wedding invitations using religious language:

When incorporating religious language into your Islamic wedding invitation, you can refer to the ceremony as a Nikah or Walima celebration. You can also include verses from the Quran or Hadith to add a sacred and traditional feeling to the invitation.

One common way to begin the invitation is with the phrase, "In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful." This phrase can be written in English, Arabic, or as a transliteration ("Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem"). This phrase sets a religious tone and expresses the Islamic values that define the celebration.

"In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the Most Merciful, Mr. and Mrs. X request the honour of your presence at the nikah ceremony of their son (groom) with (bride), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Y, on [date] at [time] at [venue and location]."

"Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem. You are cordially invited to the Walima celebration of [bride] and [groom], along with their parents and families, on [date] at [venue and location]. Please join us as we embark on a beautiful journey of love and faith under the blessings of Allah."

"In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful. Mr. and Mrs. X invite you to share in the joy of the divine bond of Nikah as their daughter (bride) unites with (groom), son of Mr. and Mrs. Y, on [date] at [time] at [venue and location]. Your presence will be a blessing on this auspicious day."

"May the almighty Allah grant this couple success in their marriage and bestow upon them good health, wealth, Imaan, and guidance to follow the straight path. Mrs. and Mr. X request the honor of your presence at the wedding ceremony of their daughter (bride) and (groom), son of Mr. and Mrs. Y, on [date] at [time] at [venue and location]. Reception and dinner to follow."

"In the name of 'Allah', the most beneficent and merciful. Oh 'Allah', guide this marriage with understanding, happiness, prosperity, and success. Mrs. and Mr. X invite you to shower your blessings upon their son (groom) and (bride), daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Y, on their auspicious wedding day, [date], at [venue and location]. Your presence will be a cherished blessing."

Remember that the wording of Islamic wedding invitations can vary based on cultural and community norms, so feel free to adapt these examples to suit your specific background and beliefs.

The importance of including all relevant information

Clear and Concise Details

Provide clear and concise details about the wedding ceremony, including the date, time, and venue. Specify the address and, if necessary, include additional instructions or a small map to guide guests to the location. If there are multiple events or ceremonies throughout the day, such as the baraat procession, nikah ceremony, or walima celebration, indicate the timing for each. This helps guests plan their attendance accordingly.

Special Instructions or Requirements

If there are any specific requirements or instructions for guests, be sure to include them. For example, if the ceremony or part of it will be held in a mosque, inform guests about any expectations regarding dress code, such as covering their shoulders or hair. This ensures that guests are well-prepared and feel comfortable during the event.

Host and Couple Information

It is customary for Islamic wedding invitations to be issued in the name of the hosts, typically the parents of the couple. Both sets of parents can be named to emphasise the union of the two families. If desired, the names of grandparents or other respected relatives can also be included to honour them. This aspect of the invitation showcases the cultural and familial significance of the wedding celebration.

Religious Language and Verses

Islamic wedding invitations often incorporate religious language and verses to reflect the couple's faith and values. You may choose to include phrases such as "In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful," which can be written in Arabic, transliteration, or translated into English. Additionally, you may select verses from the Quran or Hadith that resonate with the couple and the theme of the wedding. This adds a sacred and traditional feeling to the invitation.

Theme and Design

The design of the invitation should align with the theme and nature of the wedding celebration. If it is a formal and elegant affair, consider using colours like gold, cream, navy, or black. If your wedding is traditional and vibrantly decorated, choose an invitation that matches that aesthetic. You may also incorporate patterned designs or calligraphy that reflect your cultural heritage. The invitation's design sets the tone and gives guests a glimpse of what to expect on the big day.

RSVP and Contact Information

Don't forget to include RSVP details and a clear deadline for responses. Provide contact information, such as an email address or phone number, to make it convenient for guests to confirm their attendance. This aspect is crucial for managing the guest list and planning the logistics of the wedding, including catering and seating arrangements.

In summary, a well-crafted Islamic wedding invitation should strike a balance between providing essential information and reflecting the joy and sacredness of the occasion. By including all relevant details, you ensure that guests feel welcomed, informed, and excited to join you on this special day.

How to address the couple

When addressing the couple in an Islamic wedding invitation, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some guidelines and examples to help you craft the perfect invitation:

Guidelines for Addressing the Couple

• Hosts' Names: The invitation should be issued in the hosts' names, usually the parents of the couple. It is ideal to name both sets of parents to emphasise the union of the two families.
• Religious Language: You may include religious language and verses from the Quran or Hadith if the couple chooses to do so. Some invitations may specifically invite guests to the nikah ceremony or the walima celebration, while others may use the terms 'wedding' and 'wedding reception'.
• Honouring Family Members: The invitation can also include the name of a grandparent or other respected relative who the couple wishes to honour.
• Date, Time, and Venue: Be sure to include the specific date, time, and venue of the wedding ceremony. If there are any traditional ceremonies happening at a particular time, such as the baraat procession, note the timing on the invitation as well.
• Attire Requirements: If the ceremony is taking place in a mosque or a similar venue, inform guests about any requirements for modest dress, such as covering their shoulders or hair.

Examples of Addressing the Couple

Example 1:

> In the name of Allah, the most beneficent and most merciful

> Mr. and Mrs. [Father's Name] [Mother's Name]

> Request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter

> [Bride's Name],

> to

> [Groom's Name],

> Son of Mr. and Mrs. [Groom's Father's Name] [Groom's Mother's Name]

> [Date]

> [Year]

> [Venue]

> [Location]

Example 2:

> In the name of Allah, the most merciful and gracious

> Allah decided their marriage in heaven, and we invite you to celebrate it on earth. May Allah bless their marriage and shower them with happiness and healthy children. Ameen.

> Together with their families,

> [Bride's Name], daughter of Mr. and Mrs. [Bride's Father's Name] [Bride's Mother's Name]

> and

> [Groom's Name], son of Mr. and Mrs. [Groom's Father's Name] [Groom's Mother's Name]

> Request the honour of your presence at their wedding celebration

> [Date]

> [Venue]

> [Location]

Example 3:

> In the name of Allah, the most beneficent and merciful

> Mr. and Mrs. [Bride's Father's Name] [Bride's Mother's Name]

> Request the honour of your presence at the nikah ceremony of their beloved daughter

> [Bride's Name],

> to

> [Groom's Name],

> Beloved son of Mr. and Mrs. [Groom's Father's Name] [Groom's Mother's Name]

> [Date and Time]

> [Venue]

> [Location]

Example 4:

> Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem

> [Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]

> Request the pleasure of your company at their walima celebration, along with their parents,

> [Bride's Parents' Names]

> and

> [Groom's Parents' Names]

> [Date]

> [Venue]

> [Location]

Remember to include all the relevant information and choose wording that reflects the spirit and theme of your Islamic wedding.

Frequently asked questions