The Significance Of Being Invited To A Wedding

Being invited to a wedding is a wonderful honour. It means that you are a special part of the couple's life and they want to share their special day with you. Wedding invitations are usually sent out 6-8 weeks in advance and include details such as the host line, the attendance request, the names of the couple, the date and time, the location, reception information, and the dress code.

You're invited to the wedding, now what?

So, you've received a wedding invitation – now what?

First of all, receiving a wedding invitation is an honour – it means the couple values your presence on their special day. It also means you're expected to RSVP, and there are certain rules of etiquette to follow.

The invitation will include key details about the wedding, such as the date, time, and location. It may also include information about the dress code, and whether or not you can bring a plus-one. If you're unsure about any of the details, now is the time to ask.

If the couple has included an RSVP card, fill it out and send it back promptly. If not, they may be expecting you to RSVP via their wedding website. Either way, don't leave it too long to respond – the couple needs to finalise numbers for the caterers and seating plan.

If you've been invited with a plus-one, make sure you know who you want to bring, if anyone. It's also a good idea to check any travel or accommodation requirements if the wedding is taking place away from home.

Now, all that's left to do is wait for the big day and celebrate the happy couple!

Who's hosting?

The host of a wedding is responsible for greeting people, making decisions, and often footing the bill.

Traditionally, the bride's parents host and pay for the wedding. However, this tradition is becoming less common, with many couples now paying for their weddings themselves. In these cases, the couple can host the wedding themselves, or host it together with their parents.

If the couple is hosting with their parents, the invitation might include a line such as "Together with their families" or "Together with their parents". If the couple is hosting by themselves, they can skip the host line altogether or start the invitation with a warm and welcoming introduction, such as "Together with full hearts" or "With hearts full of love and joy".

If one set of parents is hosting, their names would be included at the top of the invitation, with the bride's parents' names listed first. For example: "Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Timothy Williams request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Lauren Martinez, to Robert Jones, son of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Jones".

If both sets of parents are hosting, the bride's parents' names are still listed first, followed by the groom's parents' names. For example: "Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Wong and Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hollis request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their children, Amy Wong and Charles Hollis".

If the couple's parents are divorced, each parent gets their own separate line. Stepparents can be included on the same line as their partner. For example: "Dr. Vance and Elizabeth Gregory, Mr. James Abner and Lydia Abner, and Mr. Harold and Jane Hyland invite you to the wedding of their children, Amy Abner and Charles Hyland".

If the wedding is hosted by someone other than the couple or their parents, such as a friend, this can also be noted on the invitation. For example: "Maid of Honour Elaine Welteroth invites you to a wellness-focused pre-wedding weekend for Bride-to-Be Lauren Martinez".

What to wear?

Being invited to a wedding means you get to celebrate the union of two people, and it's a chance to dress up! But what to wear?

The first thing to consider is the dress code. Most couples will set a wedding dress code, which is usually indicated on the invitation. The dress code is the most important factor in choosing an outfit. For example, a black-tie wedding in winter will require very different attire from a casual summer wedding.

If the dress code is black-tie, men should wear a black tuxedo, a matching stud set and cufflinks, a cummerbund or vest waist covering, a black bow tie, a white pocket square, and black patent leather shoes. Women are encouraged to wear floor-length evening gowns or elegant dresses.

For a casual daytime wedding, men can opt for a navy blazer, a blue button-down shirt, or khaki pants, while women can choose a dress with a nice neckline and simple accessories.

The time of day, season, and location of the wedding can also provide clues about what to wear. For example, a beach wedding calls for lighter colours and fabrics, while a fall wedding is perfect for richer fabrics and darker jewel tones.

One important rule to remember is to avoid wearing all white, unless specifically requested by the couple.

When it comes to accessories, jewellery can complete an outfit, and men can add a colourful pocket square or a printed tie to their ensemble.

If you're on a budget, consider altering pieces you already own to create a new look.

What to expect?

If you've been invited to a wedding, it's natural to wonder what to expect. Here's a detailed breakdown of what your invitation means and what you can expect from the big day:

The Invitation

The wedding invitation is a formal request for your presence at the wedding of the happy couple. It is typically sent out by the hosts of the wedding, who are usually the parents of the bride or both sets of parents. However, nowadays, it is also common for the couple to host and send out invitations themselves. The invitation will include key details such as the date, time, and location of the wedding ceremony and reception.

What to Expect:

Attire

The invitation may include a dress code, which is usually indicated in the lower corner or bottom centre of the invite. If no dress code is specified, the formality of the invitation itself can give you a clue as to what to wear. Very formal invitations, for example, suggest a black-tie affair.

Hosts and Guests

Traditionally, the bride's parents host the wedding, but nowadays, it is also common for both sets of parents to host or for the couple to host it themselves, perhaps along with their families. The invitation will usually indicate who the hosts are. This can also give you an idea of the guest list, as the hosts are usually involved in compiling it.

Ceremony and Reception

The invitation will provide you with the date, time, and location of the wedding ceremony. If the ceremony and reception are at the same venue, the invitation may simply state "reception to follow." If they are at different locations, the invitation will provide the full address and other pertinent information for the reception venue.

Tone and Theme

The wording and style of the invitation can give you clues about the tone and theme of the wedding. Formal invitations, for instance, suggest a traditional and elegant affair, while creative or fun invitations may indicate a more lighthearted and whimsical celebration.

Additional Information

While the invitation will provide essential details, other information will likely be communicated via enclosure cards or the wedding website. This can include registry details, accommodation suggestions, and any other wedding events or activities taking place during the wedding weekend.

In Conclusion:

Being invited to a wedding means you get to share in the joy and celebration of the happy couple's special day. The invitation will provide key logistical information, and the style and tone of the invitation can give you an idea of what to expect in terms of attire and the overall atmosphere of the event. Remember to also check for additional information on the wedding website or enclosure cards.

How to RSVP?

Being invited to a wedding is a wonderful feeling, and it's important to respond to the invitation with care. Here is a detailed guide on how to RSVP:

Understanding the Basics

The acronym RSVP stands for "répondez, s'il vous plaît", which is French for "respond, please". It is essential to respond as soon as possible and follow the couple's instructions to ensure your attendance at the wedding. The RSVP deadline is typically two to four weeks before the wedding, giving the couple enough time to finalise their plans.

Types of RSVPs

RSVPs can come in various forms, including printed cards, online websites, or emails. If you receive a printed card, it will usually include spaces for your name(s), response (attending or not), meal preferences, and any additional notes.

If there is no RSVP card, look for details on the invitation about how to respond. The couple may have provided a wedding website or alternative contact information.

Filling Out the RSVP

• Include your full name(s) and the names of any additional guests, if applicable.
• Use proper titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss) if specified.
• Clearly indicate your response, preferably with a number instead of a checkmark.
• If there is a meal selection, initial your choice(s).
• Respond to any special prompts or fun questions from the couple.
• Send your RSVP back as soon as possible.

Accepting or Declining

When accepting an invitation, it is polite to include a short personal note to the couple. If you need to decline, respond with a definitive "No" and an explanation if appropriate. It is also considerate to send a gift from the couple's registry, even if you cannot attend.

Additional Considerations

• Do not add names of individuals who were not specifically invited.
• Avoid using nicknames unless specified on the invitation.
• If you are invited with a plus-one, include their full name in your response.
• If you have serious allergies, it is advisable to contact the host or planner directly after RSVPing.

Remember, the couple is relying on your response to finalise their plans, so be prompt, clear, and considerate in your RSVP!

Frequently asked questions