Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Capitalizing 'Guest

Wedding invitations are a careful balance of etiquette and personal style. When it comes to the question of capitalising guest on an invitation, the answer is... it depends. While some sources advise against capitalising guest, others suggest that it is acceptable or even necessary to do so in certain contexts. For instance, when using guest as part of an address label, such as Mrs. Sarah Jones and Guest, it may be appropriate to capitalise the word. However, if guest is used in the body of the invitation, it would not be capitalised. Ultimately, the decision to capitalise guest may depend on the formality of the wedding, with more formal weddings typically adhering to stricter etiquette rules.

'Guest' should not be capitalised if you're inviting a plus-one

When it comes to wedding invitation etiquette, there are a few differing opinions and some nuances to consider. However, when it comes to the question of whether "guest" should be capitalized, the answer is generally no, particularly when inviting a plus-one.

Formality and Tradition

Some sources suggest that the use of two envelopes, an inner and an outer, is a very formal and traditional approach. The outer envelope includes the mailing address, postage, and return address, while the inner envelope contains the invitation, RSVP card, and any other enclosures. The inner envelope is where the host can specify exactly who is invited, and by omission, who is not. In this case, the outer envelope would be addressed to the person you are truly inviting, and the inner envelope would include "and guest."

Single Envelope Approach

However, it is more common nowadays to use a single envelope, in which case, you would simply focus on properly addressing the outer envelope. If you know the name of the plus-one, it is more personal to include their name. For example:

> Ms. Jessica Spano

> Mr. Albert Clifford Slater

If you do not know the name of the guest, you can write:

> Mr. Zachary Morris and guest

Note that in this case, "and" and "guest" are not capitalized.

Other Considerations

While the general consensus is to not capitalize "guest," there are a few other things to keep in mind. Firstly, avoid using nicknames or abbreviations. Secondly, ensure you use the correct titles, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr., etc. Finally, when in doubt, it is better to go with a more formal approach, as older or more conservative guests may take note if you are too informal.

If you don't include 'and family' or the names of children on the envelopes, it's implied that children are not invited

When it comes to wedding invitation etiquette, it's important to know that the way you address the envelopes will determine who is invited. If you're inviting a family with young children, the outer envelope is usually reserved for the names of the parents or guardians. This is where things can get a bit tricky. If you don't include the names of the children on the outer envelope, it's generally understood that they are not invited. However, this is not always the case, and some guests might still assume their children are welcome.

To be clear that only the parents are invited, simply address the outer envelope to "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the parents' names. If you want to be even more explicit, you can add "and Family" after their names. This makes it clear that the entire family is invited, and you can list the first names of all invited family members on the inner envelope.

On the other hand, if you do want to invite the children, it's customary to list their names on the inner envelope. For girls under 18, you can use "Miss" as a title if you wish, while boys don't need a title until they're 16. Here's an example of how to address an invitation to a family with young children:

Outer envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham

Inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham, Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany, and Mx. Kelly

It's worth noting that some sources suggest that if you don't include each child's name, it implies that children are not invited. However, it's still possible that some guests might assume their children are included. To avoid any confusion, it's a good idea to spread the word through your immediate family and wedding party that the event will be adults-only. You can also add this information to your wedding website.

In conclusion, when it comes to wedding invitation etiquette, the names included on the envelopes play a significant role in indicating who is invited. By addressing the outer envelope to only the parents and excluding the children's names, it's generally understood that the children are not invited. However, to avoid any misunderstandings, it's recommended to communicate the adults-only nature of the event through other means as well.

If you know the name of the plus-one, it's more personal to include their name

When it comes to wedding invitation etiquette, there are a few different approaches you can take, depending on your preferences and the style of your wedding. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations for including the names of your guests' plus-ones:

Knowing the Name of the Plus-One

If you know the name of your guest's plus-one, it is more personal to include their name on the invitation. This can be done by listing your guest's name and their plus-one's name on the outer envelope of the invitation. For example, "Mrs. Valerie Smith and Mrs. Hannah Woods". This approach ensures that both individuals are acknowledged and feel welcomed.

Using "and Guest"

If you are unsure of the plus-one's name or expect that your guest may bring a different person, you can use the phrase "and guest". This can be added to either the outer or inner envelope, or both, depending on your preference. For example, "Mr. Zachary Morris and guest". While this approach is less personal, it provides flexibility for your guest and avoids any potential confusion or awkwardness if the plus-one's name is unknown or subject to change.

Inner and Outer Envelopes

Traditionally, wedding invitations include both an outer and an inner envelope. The outer envelope is more formal and typically includes the mailing address, postage, and return address. The inner envelope is printed with only the recipients' names and contains the invitation, RSVP card, and any other enclosures. When using both types of envelopes, you can address the outer envelope to your guest only and include the plus-one's name on the inner envelope.

Single Envelope or Online Invitations

If you are using a single envelope or sending online invitations, be sure to clearly address all invitees. If the couple is in a relationship, list both guests by their full names. For example, "Ms. Jessica Spano and Mr. Albert Clifford Slater". If you are allowing a guest to bring a casual date, write your guest's name followed by "and guest". For instance, "Mr. Zachary Morris and guest".

Formality and Titles

It is generally recommended to use titles and full names when addressing wedding invitations, especially for the outer envelope. Avoid using nicknames or abbreviations. For unmarried women, use "Ms." unless she is under 18, in which case "Miss" is more acceptable. For single males, use "Mr." unless they are under 18, in which comes no title is needed.

Capitalization

When it comes to capitalization, there are differing opinions. According to some sources, "Guest" is not capitalized because it is not a proper noun. However, others suggest that it is common practice to capitalize "Guest" in wedding invitations. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can decide based on your preference and the overall style of your invitations.

Remember, these are just guidelines, and you can adapt them to fit your specific situation and the tone you wish to set for your wedding.

If you're inviting children, write their names in order of age on a line under their parents' names

When it comes to wedding invitation etiquette, there are many details to consider, including how to address your guests properly. While the invitation may follow a formal structure, there are a few ways to customize the wording to include children and ensure their parents are also addressed correctly.

If you are inviting children to your wedding, it is important to include their names on the invitation. The standard etiquette is to list their names on a line under their parents' names. The children's names should be written in order of age, with the oldest listed first. For example, if a family has three children, the invitation would be addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, Emma, Benjamin, and Sarah." This provides a clear indication of who is invited and allows for a more personalized touch.

Properly addressing the children on the invitation is a thoughtful way to ensure the parents know their entire family is welcome at your wedding. It is a simple yet effective way to extend the invitation to the whole family and avoid any confusion. By listing the children's names, you are also acknowledging their presence and importance, making them feel included in the celebration.

When it comes to capitalization, it is standard practice to capitalize the names of your guests, including the children. This is a respectful way to address them and maintain a consistent format throughout your invitations. Capitalizing the guests' names also adds a sense of formality and elegance to your wedding invitations, ensuring they look polished and well-prepared.

In conclusion, paying attention to the details of addressing your wedding invitations, including the capitalization and ordering of guests' names, is essential. By following the proper etiquette of listing children's names under their parents' in order of age, you create a clear and thoughtful invitation for your guests. This ensures that everyone feels welcomed and valued as part of your special day, contributing to a memorable celebration for all attendees, both young and old.

If children are over 18, they should receive their own invitation

When it comes to wedding invitation etiquette, it's important to follow certain guidelines to ensure clarity and avoid confusion among your guests. One such guideline pertains to addressing invitations to families with children over the age of 18.

According to wedding invitation etiquette, each family member over the age of 18, regardless of whether they live at the family home, should receive their own invitation. This is because individuals over 18 are considered adults and are expected to manage their own social calendar. Sending separate invitations to adult children also makes it clear who is invited and gives them a sense of personal responsibility in learning how to RSVP properly.

However, there may be exceptions to this rule depending on the family dynamics and your relationship with them. If the adult children have just graduated from high school, live at home, and are very close to their parents, including them on the same invitation as their parents may be acceptable. In such cases, the invitation can be addressed to "The [Last Name] Family," followed by the first names of the parents and adult children.

It's worth noting that proper etiquette dictates that each social unit, such as a couple or a family with minor children, receives their own invitation. This helps to avoid confusion about who is invited and ensures that each guest feels valued and respected.

To further clarify who is invited, you can utilize inner envelopes. The inner envelope contains the invitation, RSVP card, and any additional enclosures. It is printed with the names of the specific individuals invited, allowing you to be clear about who is and isn't invited. If you choose to send invitations without inner envelopes, simply focus on properly addressing the outer envelope with the names of all invited family members.

Frequently asked questions