Essential Details For Your Wedding Invitation

Wedding invitations are a major undertaking, and it's important to ensure that your guests have all the information they need to celebrate with you. While the design of the invitation is important, it's also crucial to finalise the text and include all the necessary details. The invitation should include the names of the couple, the wedding date, time, and location, as well as information on how to RSVP. It's also helpful to include extra information about the venue, such as parking instructions or a custom map, and the wedding website address.

Names of the couple

The names of the couple are the most important piece of information to include in a wedding invitation. Here are some tips and guidelines to ensure that the names are presented effectively:

Names Take Centre Stage

The names of the couple should be the focal point of the invitation. They can be presented using a fancy font to make them stand out and catch the eye of the guests. Whether you include surnames or not, ensure that the names are prominently displayed.

Order of Names

For heterosexual couples, the woman's name is typically listed first, but you can order the names in a way that feels right to you. LGBTQIA+ couples may choose to order their names alphabetically, by age, or however they prefer. It is common to include first and middle names, but you may also opt for first and last names or full legal names.

Formality

The formality of the wedding can guide the name format. For a black-tie ballroom event, consider using full names, while a casual beach ceremony may call for just first names.

Host Line

If the couple's parents are hosting the wedding, their names are usually included at the top of the invitation, even for formal affairs. If both sets of parents are contributing financially, they can be included as hosts as well. For example: "Together with their parents, Emma and Jax request the pleasure of your company...".

Deceased Parents

If you want to include the name of a deceased parent, the wording can be adjusted. For 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 honour of your presence at their wedding...".

Divorced Parents

When including divorced parents as hosts, list each parent on a separate line, keeping a stepparent on the same line as their partner. For 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...".

Same-Sex Couples

For same-sex couples, the traditional rule of listing the woman's name first does not apply. Alphabetical order or simply what sounds better can be followed.

Formality and Titles

For formal weddings, write out the time of day in words (e.g., "four o'clock in the afternoon") and avoid using numerals. For casual weddings, numerals are acceptable. The use of "a.m." or "p.m." is optional.

Inner and Outer Envelopes

The inner and outer envelopes follow different etiquette rules. The outer envelope should be formal, including the recipient's full name and personal title (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss, or the gender-neutral Mx.). The inner envelope is more informal, allowing for more flexibility in name format.

Unmarried Couple

For unmarried couples living at the same address, include both names on one line on the outer envelope, listing the person you are closest to first. On the inner envelope, you can use first names only.

Married Couple with Same Last Name

For heterosexual couples, use "Mr." and "Mrs." and spell out the husband's full name. For same-sex couples, either name can come first. On the inner envelope, you can use their shared last name or list their first names.

Married Couple with Different Last Names

For heterosexual couples with different last names, write their names on the same line, with the woman's name first. If the names are too long, list them separately. On the inner envelope, use their separate last names or first names.

Married Couple with One Hyphenated Last Name

For spouses with a hyphenated last name, address the invitation to reflect this. On the outer envelope, list their names separately. On the inner envelope, use the hyphenated last name or their first names.

Plus-One Language

If a guest has a plus-one, reserve the "and guest" language for the inner envelope only.

Date, time and location

When it comes to the date, time, and location of your wedding, there are a few key things you'll want to include on your invitations to ensure your guests have all the information they need.

Date

Firstly, make sure the date of your wedding is clear and easy to read. Include the day of the week, especially if your wedding is on a day other than Saturday, as this will give your guests plenty of notice. For example, "Saturday, June 10, 2024".

Time

In addition to the date, be sure to communicate the time of the ceremony on your invitations to avoid latecomers. Stating the start time will let guests know how early they need to arrive. Provide the hour and the time of day (a.m. vs. p.m.) to avoid any confusion. For formal invitations, write out the time rather than using numerals (e.g. "four o'clock in the afternoon").

You may also want to include the time you want guests to arrive, especially if there will be pre-ceremony activities such as arrival drinks. For example, "Please arrive from 12:30 pm to be seated for the ceremony beginning at 1:00 pm prompt".

Location

For the location, include the full official name of your wedding venue, as well as the address and postcode, so that guests can easily find it and input it into their GPS devices. If your venue is in a remote location or is difficult to find, you may also want to include brief directions on your invitations or a custom map of the area.

If your ceremony and reception are taking place at the same location, you can simply include a line like "Reception to follow", "Celebration to follow", or "Dinner and dancing to follow". If they are at different venues, you'll need to include a separate reception card with the start time and address of the reception venue.

Additional Considerations

• If your wedding is in a unique venue or an unfamiliar area, consider including extra information such as parking instructions or a custom map illustrating the wedding venue.
• If you are providing transport for your guests, include details such as pick-up and return times and locations.
• If your wedding spans multiple days or includes additional events, provide a full itinerary for your guests so they know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
• If you have guests travelling from afar, include a list of local accommodation options along with contact details and websites.
• If your wedding ceremony or reception has a specific dress code, be sure to include this information on your invitations.

RSVP details

RSVPs are essential for the happy couple to finalise their catering count, create a seating plan, and address guests properly on place cards, escort cards, or personalised favours. Here are some ideas for what to include in your RSVP details:

Response Card and Envelope

The traditional way to respond to a wedding invitation is to include a response card and a pre-addressed and stamped envelope for guests' convenience. The response card is where your guests will confirm their attendance and the number of people attending. It's helpful to include a deadline for responses, usually eight or more weeks before the wedding, to give you plenty of time to collate the final guest list and figure out a seating plan.

Online Responses

If you have a wedding website, you can direct guests to RSVP there. This is a good option if you want to save on postage, but be considerate of older guests who may not be comfortable using a computer. In this case, you could send them a response card instead.

Meal Choices

If you're offering a plated dinner, include a place on the RSVP card for guests to select their entrée preference. They can indicate their choice with their initials so the couple can easily identify who has chosen what.

Additional Information

You can also use the RSVP card to gather other important information, such as transport and parking requirements or any allergies that may result in a medical issue.

RSVP Etiquette

It's important to respond to an RSVP as soon as possible and to include the names of all guests attending. It's also good etiquette to add a short personal note to the couple, such as well wishes for the future.

Venue/location specifics

The venue and location of your wedding are key pieces of information that your guests will need to know. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to convey this information effectively in your wedding invitations:

Providing Clear and Accurate Information

Ensure that you include both the ceremony and reception locations in your invitations. If they are taking place at the same spot, you can simply add a line such as "Reception to Follow" or "Celebration to Follow". If the reception is at a separate venue, provide the name and address of that location as well. It is important to be as clear and specific as possible to avoid any confusion for your guests.

Address Details

When providing the address of your venue, include the name of the venue, the city, and the state. While including the full street address is not always necessary, especially for well-known locations, it may be helpful to include it to prevent any potential confusion, especially if there are multiple venues with similar names in the area.

Directions and Maps

Consider including a separate direction card or insert with your invitation suite. This is especially useful if your wedding is taking place at a unique venue or one that your guests may be unfamiliar with. You can also include a custom map of the area, showing the locations of the ceremony and reception in relation to each other. This adds a personal touch and can be a nice keepsake for your guests.

Timing and Logistics

If your ceremony and reception are at different venues, be sure to include the timing and logistics for both. State the start time for each event and provide clear instructions on any travel or transportation arrangements between the two locations. This will help your guests plan their day and ensure they don't miss any part of the celebration.

Online Information

In addition to the printed invitations, you can also provide venue and location specifics on your wedding website. This is a great place to include more detailed information, such as parking instructions, accommodation options, and recommendations for things to do in the area. You can then include the URL for your wedding website on a separate card within your invitation suite.

RSVP and Contact Information

Provide clear instructions on how and when guests should RSVP, whether it's via a response card, your wedding website, or another method. Include any relevant contact information, such as an email address or phone number, to make it easy for guests to reach out with any questions or for more information.

Dress code

Including a dress code on your wedding invitation is a great way to ensure your event stays as formal or as casual as you want it to be. It is also helpful for guests to know what is expected of them attire-wise. Here are some ideas for how to communicate the dress code to your guests:

Where to Include the Dress Code

• On the wedding invitation itself, either in the lower left or right-hand corner, or at the bottom centre of the design.
• On a separate information or details card, along with other important information for your guests.
• On your wedding website, if you have one.

How to Communicate the Dress Code

The style of your dress code wording should be consistent with the rest of your invitation wording. You can write the dress code with or without a colon or other mark, such as a bullet point or vertical bar. Here are some examples:

• Dress Formal
• Dress Code: Formal
• Formal Attire (Black Tie Optional)

Examples of Dress Code Wording for Different Attire

White Tie

"White tie. We ask that men wear tailcoats and women wear floor-length evening gowns or ball gowns. Top hats and gloves are encouraged."

Black Tie

• "Black tie. We ask that men wear a tuxedo and women wear a floor-length gown."
• "Black-tie optional. We ask that men wear a tuxedo or a dark suit and tie and women wear an evening gown or midi or knee-length cocktail dress."

Formal or Black Tie Optional

• "Formal attire. We suggest that men wear a suit in any colour and women wear a cocktail dress or a nice pantsuit."
• We ask that guests wear attire that fits a black-tie dress code, but this is optional. For men, a dark suit with a shirt and tie is appropriate (if they don't wish to wear a tuxedo). Women should wear a floor-length gown, knee-length cocktail dress, a pantsuit, or dressy separates.

Lounge Suit or Semi-Formal

"Lounge suit or semi-formal attire. This is suitable for a semi-formal daytime wedding. The wedding party will be in formal wedding attire, and it's optional for all guests. For men, a classic suit or tux with a tie is appropriate, and for women, formal evening wear (floor-length dresses or evening pantsuits)."

Jacket & Tie

Similar to lounge suit or semi-formal, but indicating that men can wear a sports jacket, suit jacket, or smart blazer and chinos with a tie. Women should wear a cocktail dress that is shorter than floor-length, a pantsuit, or dressy separates.

Cocktail Attire

"Cocktail attire. We suggest that men wear a suit (tie optional) or sports jacket and dress shirt. For women, an above-the-knee hem (or any length above floor length) is appropriate."

Smart Casual

"Smart casual attire. Wedding guests are asked to dress neatly, without being overly dressy or overly casual. For men, dark denim, chinos or suit pants with a neat shirt are appropriate. For women, a skirt or smart trousers are suggested."

Frequently asked questions