Junior Rasmussen
If you've ever received a wedding invitation, you might have noticed a mysterious M on the RSVP card. This line often confuses guests because while it used to be standard on all formal RSVP cards, modern wedding invitation etiquette tends to be more relaxed. So, what does this M stand for? Simply put, it's the first letter of the title you prefer to go by, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. The guest then writes their full name, along with the names of any other invited guests, on the line after the M. For example, Ms. Jane Smith is the correct response for a solo attendee.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What the "M" stands for | The first letter of the guest's title, e.g. Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss |
| How to fill out the "M" line | Write the title and full name, e.g. "Ms. Jane Smith" or "Mr. and Mrs. John Doe" |
| Whether the "M" is necessary | No, modern couples are increasingly dropping the "M" and using a "Name" or "Name(s)" line instead |
What You'll Learn
The M stands for the first letter of the title you prefer to go by
The "M" on a wedding invitation is a prompt for the guest to fill in their title and name. It is a traditional way of sending out invitations, and the "M" stands for the first letter of the title the guest uses, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. This is followed by the guest's full name and the names of any other guests. For example, “Ms. Jane Smith” is the correct response for a single guest.
The "M" line is a more formal way of addressing guests and is not necessary for modern wedding invitations. Couples may choose to use a more casual "Name(s)" approach instead. However, the "M" line can be a way to show pride in one's title and partner, and it is still used by many couples.
When filling out the "M" line, guests should refer to the envelope of the invitation to see who is invited. If there is an inner envelope, it will list the names of all the invited guests. For example, if the outer envelope is addressed to "Miss Elly May Clampett," the inner envelope may say, "Elly May and Guest," indicating that two guests are invited rather than one.
It is important to fill out the "M" line completely and clearly, as this information is often used for seating cards. Guests should write their full names, including titles, and the names of any additional invited guests. For married couples with the same last name, the response would be "Mr. and Mrs. John Doe" or "Mr. John and Mrs. Jane Doe." For unmarried couples with different last names, the response would be "Miss Jane Smith and Mr. John Doe."
The "M" line is a traditional element of wedding invitations, and while it is not required in modern times, it adds a formal touch to the invitation and allows guests to proudly display their titles and names.
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The M is used in a more traditional/formal style of sending out invitations
The "M" on a wedding invitation is a holdover from traditional wedding invitation etiquette. It is meant to prompt the recipient to fill out their title, such as Mr., Mrs., Miss, or Ms., followed by their name. This practice is meant to reflect the importance of a person's title, their relationship, and their identity. While it is no longer a standard feature on wedding invitations, it is still used by couples who want to stick to a more formal style of sending out invitations.
The "M" line on RSVP cards has been a fixture of formal invitations for at least a century, if not longer. It was once standard on all formal RSVP cards, but nowadays, many couples are opting for a more relaxed approach, choosing to use a simple "Name" or "Name(s)" prompt instead. This shift towards a more informal style is likely due to the desire to be more inclusive and flexible for guests, especially those who do not identify with a specific title.
However, for those who want to uphold the traditional and formal style of wedding invitations, the "M" line is a way to maintain that sense of formality. It is a way to kickstart the reply and guide guests on how to respond. By including the "M," couples are expecting guests to write their titles, regardless of their specific title or accreditation. For example, a guest with the title ""Dr." would still write "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their name, instead of their title of "Dr.".
Using the "M" line also helps ensure that guests provide their full names, which is essential for the couple when creating seating cards and finalising the guest list. It is important to note that the "M" line is not an opportunity for guests to invite additional people. The number of guests invited is indicated on the outer envelope, and any "plus ones" should be indicated as "and Guest" if the name of the invited individual is unknown.
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The M line on RSVP cards has been a fixture for at least a century
The "M" line on RSVP cards has been a fixture for at least a century, and it serves as a prompt for guests to write their names and titles. This line is often confusing for guests, as it is no longer standard on all formal RSVP cards. The "M" stands for the first letter of the guest's title, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. It is meant to be followed by the guest's full name and the names of any other invited guests. For example, "Ms. Jane Smith" would be the appropriate response for a guest attending alone.
The use of the "M" line reflects the traditional importance of a person's title, relationship, and identity. In the past, women often took pride in being "Mrs. John Brown," reflecting their marital status and connection to their husband. However, wedding etiquette, including RSVP etiquette, has evolved to reflect modern relationships. While the sentiment of being proud of one's title and partner remains, the use of the "M" line is now seen as more of a formal tradition.
Today, couples have more flexibility in how they choose to address their guests on RSVP cards. Some may opt for a more laid-back "Name(s)" approach, providing a line for guests to write their full names. This approach is especially useful for guests who do not identify with a specific title or prefer not to use their titles.
It is worth noting that the outer envelope of the invitation should include any special titles of the invited guests. When filling out the RSVP card, guests should refer to the inner envelope to confirm the names of all invited guests. This information is crucial for the couple to finalize their wedding budget and plan accordingly.
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The M is the great equalizer of guests
The "M" on wedding invitations is a prompt for guests to write their names, with the "M" standing for the first letter of their title, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. This is then followed by the guest's full name and the names of anyone else who has been invited. For example, “Ms. Jane Smith” is the correct response for a guest attending the wedding alone. The "M" is used in a more traditional or formal style of sending out invitations, and it has been a fixture of formal invitations for at least a century, reflecting the importance of a person's title, their relationship, and their identity.
However, modern wedding invitation etiquette has become more relaxed, and many couples are now opting for a more laid-back "Name(s)" approach instead of the formal "M" line. This shift towards a more generic "Name" or "Name(s)" line offers more flexibility for guests in writing their names and is definitely less confusing.
The "M" line is no longer a standard feature on all formal RSVP cards, and couples are now more likely to use a prompt for guests to write their names in full, such as "Lisa and John Grotts". This evolution in etiquette rules means that guests are not required to include their title or the "M" when responding to a wedding invitation.
Despite this move towards more casual language, the "M" line remains a great equalizer among guests. It conveys that everyone, regardless of their title or status, will be treated the same. For example, guests with titles like "The Honorable" or "Dr." would use the "M" line like everyone else, writing "The Honorable Ms. Jane Smith" or "Dr. Mr. Adam Smith". This ensures consistency and clarity in the responses, making it easier for the couple to plan the wedding and finalize their budget.
In conclusion, the "M" line on wedding invitations is an optional feature that prompts guests to provide their names and titles. While it is no longer universally used, it serves as a great equalizer, treating all guests equally regardless of their titles or status.
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You don't have to include the M on your response cards
The "M" on wedding response cards is a holdover from traditional formal invitation etiquette. It stands for the first letter of the title of the guest, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss. However, this tradition is becoming less common, and many couples are opting to exclude it from their response cards.
If you are designing your wedding invitations and response cards, you may be wondering whether to include the "M." Here are some reasons why you don't have to include it:
- Inclusivity and Flexibility: By excluding the "M," you make your response cards more inclusive and flexible for your guests. Not all guests may identify with a specific title, and some may prefer not to use one. Excluding the "M" allows guests to write their names and titles as they see fit, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and respected.
- Avoiding Confusion: The "M" on response cards can sometimes confuse guests, especially those unfamiliar with formal invitation etiquette. They may be unsure of what to write or how to format their response. By simply using "Name:" or "Name(s):" followed by a line, you provide a clear and straightforward prompt that guests are more likely to understand.
- Modernizing Your Invitations: Wedding invitation etiquette is evolving to reflect modern relationships and values. By excluding the "M," you are following a more contemporary approach that many couples are now embracing. This simple change can make your invitations feel more relaxed and aligned with current trends.
- Personalization: Excluding the "M" gives your guests more freedom to personalize their responses. They can choose to include their titles if they wish, or they can simply write their names as they prefer to be addressed. This option allows your guests to put their unique touch on their responses, making them feel more involved in your special day.
- Consistency: If you choose to exclude the "M" on your response cards, you can maintain consistency throughout your wedding stationery. Using "Name:" or "Name(s):" on the response cards aligns with how guests are typically addressed on the outer envelope of the invitation suite. This consistency creates a cohesive and streamlined look for your wedding paper goods.
Remember, the most important aspect of response cards is to provide a clear and easy way for your guests to confirm their attendance and any other relevant details, such as meal choices. By excluding the "M," you are taking a step towards making your wedding planning process smoother and more guest-friendly.
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Frequently asked questions
The "M" on a wedding invitation is a prompt for guests to write their names. It stands for the first letter of the title they prefer to go by, such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., or Miss.
The "M" line on RSVP cards has been a fixture of formal invitations for at least a century, reflecting the importance of a person's title, their relationship, and their identity.
Guests should write their full name, along with the names of anyone else who has been invited, on the line after the "M". For example, "Ms. Jane Smith" is the correct response if someone is attending the wedding alone.
Yes, you can put "Name:" with a line following it on the response card so guests can write down their first and last names. This is a more modern approach and can be more inclusive for guests who do not identify with a specific title.
If you have a "plus one" on the wedding invitation, include that person's name on the name line with yours. If you don't know who your plus one will be, simply write "and guest".
