Crafting Casual Wedding Invites: Guide To Perfect Wording

Wedding invitation wording is important as it gives guests an idea of what to expect from the event. The language used can convey whether the wedding will be formal or casual, and it's especially important to set the right tone if you're having a casual wedding, as guests may assume a semi-formal event as a minimum.

The key to casual wedding invitation wording is to use a less formal, more conversational tone. This can be achieved by using first names only, numerical dates and times, and a friendly opening line. It's also a good idea to include a reference to reception activities, and any COVID-19 restrictions if necessary.

It's worth noting that the invitation design can also convey the tone of the wedding. A more formal invitation will suggest a more formal event, so it's best to avoid high-end invitations if you want a casual vibe.

Ditch traditional language

On a traditional wedding invitation, you would typically begin with a formal hosting line, including the full names of the couple. However, for a casual wedding, you can ditch the formalities and opt for a light-hearted opening statement. Start with a friendly greeting that sets the tone for a relaxed and joyful celebration. Instead of "You are cordially invited", try something like, "We're tying the knot and you're invited to join the fun!" or "Join us as we eat, drink, and get married!".

Use only the first names of the couple, creating an intimate and conversational feel. For example, "Join Amy and Alex for a day of love, laughter, and happily ever after." This approach is especially fitting if the couple is hosting the wedding themselves.

Numerical symbols are perfectly fine for a casual wedding invitation, so feel free to use numbers for the date and time instead of spelling them out. This also helps to reinforce the informal nature of the event.

The key is to use language that feels warm and inviting, reflecting the personality of the couple and the atmosphere they want to create.

Hint at fun activities

If you're planning a casual wedding, you might not want to follow the traditional wedding trajectory of a ceremony followed by a cocktail hour, a sit-down dinner, and dancing punctuated by toasts. In your wedding invitation, you can hint at fun activities in a way that suggests that the schedule won't be regimented.

• "Reception to follow with drinks, dancing, and games."
• "Get ready to dance and play the night away."
• "Drinks, dancing, and games to follow."
• "Join us for an evening of fun and celebration."
• "Get ready to eat, drink, and be married!"
• "Light fare and festivities to follow."
• "Food, fun, and festivities will follow, so bring your dancing shoes!"

Remember, it's essential to provide your guests with additional information about your wedding beyond what you include on the invitation itself. Consider including a separate information card with your invitation to let guests know about the dress code and any food you'll be serving, especially if you're not providing served options for guests to choose from in advance.

Include key information

While a casual wedding invitation gives you more freedom to be creative with your language, there are still some key details you should include. Here are some tips to ensure your guests have all the essential information they need:

The Date, Time, and Location

Be sure to include the date and time of both the ceremony and reception. You can use numerical symbols for the date and time, such as "Saturday, 15th July 2023 at 4 PM". If the ceremony and reception are at the same venue, you can simply say "Reception to follow". If they are at different locations, be sure to include the full address and other pertinent information for the reception venue.

Reference to Reception Activities

Give your guests a hint of what to expect at the reception. You can use language like "Food, fun, and festivities will follow" or "Get ready to dance and play the night away". If you're only providing snacks or finger foods, be sure to mention this to help your guests know whether to eat beforehand.

Dress Code

While it's not mandatory, including a dress code will help your guests know what to wear. For a casual wedding, you can say something like "Come as you are" or "Casual attire". If your wedding is outdoors, you may want to suggest comfortable footwear and appropriate clothing for the weather.

COVID-19 Restrictions

If your wedding will have any COVID-19 restrictions, be sure to mention them on the invitation. This could include mask requirements, social distancing, or any other safety measures you plan to implement.

RSVP Information

Traditionally, RSVP cards are included with formal wedding invitations. For a casual wedding, you can provide a digital RSVP option through your wedding website. Include the URL to your wedding website on the invitation and set an RSVP deadline. You can also get creative with the RSVP language, such as "Please say you do" or "Yes, I'll bring my dancing shoes".

Dress code

The dress code for our wedding is casual. We recommend that our guests wear something comfortable and weather-appropriate. For the ladies, a sundress or blouse and trousers would be perfect. For the gentlemen, a button-down shirt and trousers or dark jeans will do just fine. We kindly request no suits, tuxedos, or formal gowns.

Please note that our wedding will be held outdoors, so we recommend avoiding uncomfortable formal wear and high heels. Instead, opt for dressy casual attire and footwear that will allow you to walk and dance with ease.

If you have any questions about the dress code, please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly. We want everyone to feel comfortable and enjoy the celebration!

Alternative Wording Ideas:

• "Come as you are!"
• "Casual attire is encouraged."
• "No need to dress up—we're keeping it casual!"
• "Feel free to leave your suits and gowns at home. We're going for a casual look."
• "Join us in your favourite casual outfit to celebrate our special day."

RSVP

The RSVP is an important part of your wedding stationery suite. It gives your guests the first taste of your wedding theme and allows you to get an accurate headcount for your big day. Here are some tips and wording examples to help you create the perfect RSVP card for your casual wedding:

Set a Clear Deadline

Give your guests a clear deadline for responding, usually around four weeks before the wedding date. This will allow you and your vendors enough time to finalise the details, such as the amount of food and drinks needed and the seating chart.

Include the Essentials

Your RSVP card should include the following essential information:

• A clear deadline for responses
• A way for guests to indicate whether they will be attending or not
• Space for guests to write their names and the names of any additional guests
• Any dietary requirements or meal preferences

Add More Information

You can also include additional information on your RSVP card, such as:

• Your contact details (phone number, email address, or wedding website URL)
• Dress code or any other important information for your guests
• Space for guests to write special accommodations or notes

Wording Examples

Kindly reply before [date]

Name(s): _________________

□ Can't wait!

□ Sorry, I/we can't make it

Let us know before [date]

Name(s): _________________

□ Can't wait to hit the dance floor

□ Will be toasting from afar

Please watch us tie the knot. RSVP by [date]

Name(s): _________________

□ Will be there to celebrate

□ Will be toasting from afar

Are you in? Please RSVP by [date]

Name(s) of our fabulous guests: _________________

□ Yay

□ Nay

Will you be joining us? RSVP by [date]

Name(s): _________________

□ Yes, you will see my/our face(s)

□ Sorry, I'm/we're busy that day

Frequently asked questions