Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding invitations are an important way to deliver key details to your guests. While the specific wording can be tricky, there are some standard elements that should be included on wedding invitations. These typically include the names of the couple, the hosts, the location, the date, and the time. Other details such as the dress code, travel information, and registry details are optional and can be included on an additional insert card or on the wedding website. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to what you should put on your wedding invitations to ensure you have all the necessary information covered.
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Names of the couple
The names of the couple are a key part of a wedding invitation. Traditionally, the bride's name is written before the groom's name, and the bride is referred to by her first and middle name, while the groom's full name and title are used. However, this tradition is not set in stone, and you can choose to include your names in a way that feels most comfortable to you as a couple. For same-sex couples, the traditional rule of the woman's name first does not apply, and you can choose the ordering based on alphabetical order or personal preference.
If the couple is hosting the wedding themselves, the host line can be omitted, and the invitation can begin with a warm and welcoming introduction. For example, "Jessica and Jane are getting hitched!" or "Please join [couple's names] as we tie the knot!". The couple's names are usually displayed in larger text and often in a fancy typeface.
When addressing the wedding invitation envelopes, it is important to spell out the names of the invitees in full, including titles, first names, middle names (optional), and last names. Avoid using nicknames or initials. For married couples, use "Mr. and Mrs." or "Mr. and Mr." followed by their shared surname. For unmarried couples living at the same address, list the person you are closest to first: "Mr. Stanley Kim and Ms. Amanda Rhee".
If the wedding is hosted by the couple's parents or families, their names are usually included in the invitation. Traditionally, the bride's parents' names are listed first, followed by the groom's parents. However, it is becoming more common to include both sets of parents' names, regardless of who is paying for the wedding. For example, "Together with their parents/families, [couple's names] invite you to their wedding".
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Date, time and location
When it comes to the date, time and location of your wedding, there are a few things to consider when including this information on your invitations.
Firstly, the date and time should be spelled out in full for traditional wedding invitations, whereas numerical figures are often used on modern invites. For example, you could write "Saturday, the fifth of May, two thousand seventeen at one o'clock in the afternoon". If you do opt for numerals, choose a legible font to avoid any confusion. For a formal wedding, everything is written out in full, including the time of day (e.g. "half after five o'clock") and the use of a.m. or p.m. is optional.
Next, the location should include the name and full street address of the venue, along with the state and zip code. If your wedding is abroad, be sure to include the country. If the ceremony and reception are at the same venue, you can simply state "reception to follow". If the reception is elsewhere, include the address and other relevant information on a separate details card tucked inside the invitation.
Finally, consider how you want to communicate the tone of your wedding. The phrase "the honour of your presence" is traditionally used to denote a religious service, whereas "the pleasure of your company" is used for non-religious ceremonies.
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Hosts
The host line is the opening line on a wedding invitation and traditionally, the bride's parents are the hosts of the wedding and are named at the top of the invitation. However, some couples opt to include the names of both sets of parents, regardless of who is paying for the wedding. For example, if the couple and their parents are contributing, you can opt for something like, "Together with their parents" or "Together with their families".
If you want to include the name of a parent who has passed away, you'll need to rearrange things as someone who has passed away can't technically serve as a host. Here is an example:
> Julia French, daughter of Mr. Adam French and the late Iris French, and Austin Mahoney, son of Mr. Camden and Elizabeth Mahoney, request the honor of your presence at their wedding on the fifth of May, two thousand seventeen at one o'clock in the afternoon at The Reagan Library, Simi Valley, CA.
If your parents are divorced and you want to include both of them as hosts, write each name on a separate line. And if you're going to include the name of a stepparent, write it on the same line as their partner. Here is an example:
> Dr. Vance and Elizabeth Gregory and 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 01.06.18 | 4 p.m. Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church Newport, California. Reception immediately after.
If you are hosting the wedding yourselves, the host line can be omitted.
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RSVP details
The RSVP, or "répondez, s'il vous plaît", is a crucial part of the wedding invitation. It allows the couple to know how many guests are attending, which is essential for planning the food, drinks, and other details. Here are some key details to include in the RSVP section of your wedding invitations:
Response Deadline
It is important to set a deadline for guests to respond, usually around four weeks before the wedding. This deadline should be clearly and prominently displayed on the invitation or RSVP card. Phrases such as "Kindly reply by [insert date]" or "Please respond by [insert date]" are commonly used.
Response Method
Provide clear instructions on how guests should respond. If you are accepting postal RSVP cards, include a stamped, addressed envelope to make it convenient for your guests. Alternatively, you may opt for digital RSVPs and include your email address, phone number, or wedding website link on the invitation or a separate details card.
Attendance Line
Include a line for guests to accept or decline the invitation. This can be in the form of checkboxes, circling options, or fill-in-the-blank lines. It is important to know the number of attendees for planning purposes.
Dietary Requirements and Food Preferences
If you are serving dinner or offering food options, allow guests to indicate their dietary restrictions and meal preferences. This can be done through checkboxes or fill-in-the-blank lines. Some couples also ask for drink preferences or song requests to add a fun element to the RSVP process.
Additional Information
You may include a space for guests to provide additional information, such as advice for the couple or a favourite memory. This adds a personal touch to the RSVP process. It is also helpful to include your address or other contact information clearly on the RSVP card, in case any invitations are missing the provided envelope.
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Dress code
When it comes to the dress code, it's important to provide clear and detailed information on your wedding invitations to ensure your guests are well-informed and able to dress appropriately for the occasion. Here are some instructive paragraphs you can use as a guide:
Paragraph 1:
The dress code for our wedding is [formal/semi-formal/casual/black-tie optional/black-tie]. We kindly request that guests adhere to the specified dress code to ensure a cohesive and elegant celebration.
Paragraph 2:
For ladies attending the wedding, we suggest dresses, skirts, or pantsuits in [color palette or theme]. Gentlemen are encouraged to wear suits or slacks with collared shirts. Please note that jeans, shorts, and casual attire are not suitable for this event.
Paragraph 3:
As our wedding will be held [indoors/outdoors], we recommend considering the venue's setting when selecting your attire. Comfortable footwear is advised, especially if you plan to join us on the dance floor!
Paragraph 4:
If you require further clarification or have any questions regarding the dress code, please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly. We're happy to provide additional guidance to ensure you feel confident and comfortable on our special day.
Paragraph 5:
In addition to the dress code, we kindly ask that guests refrain from wearing strong fragrances or scented products out of respect for guests with potential allergies or sensitivities. Your consideration in this matter is greatly appreciated.
Remember, these paragraphs can be modified to align with your specific wedding theme and preferences. Feel free to include any unique or special requests that you may have for your guests' attire.
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Frequently asked questions
The key information to include on wedding invitations is the who, what, when, and where of the nuptials. This includes the names of the couple, the hosts, the date, time, and location of the wedding. You may also include details on how to RSVP, the dress code, travel information, and details of any additional events.
The wording of your wedding invitation can depend on the formality of your wedding and who is hosting. Traditionally, the bride's parents are the hosts and are named at the top of the invitation. However, some couples now opt to include the names of both sets of parents or host the wedding themselves. The invitation should include an invitational line, listing the hosts, followed by a request line, such as "Request the Pleasure of Your Company" or "Request the Honor of Your Presence" for a religious ceremony.
Registry details are not typically included on wedding invitations. This information can be put on your wedding website instead, with a QR code or URL included on an additional insert card in your invitation suite.
