Wedding invitation wording sets the tone for your entire celebration and communicates essential details to your guests.
Getting the wording right matters because your invitations provide guests with their first impression of your wedding style and level of formality.
This guide breaks down invitation wording for every wedding scenario, from traditional formal affairs to casual celebrations.
Traditional Formal Wedding Invitation Template
The most classic format follows this structure:
- Hosts’ names (traditionally the bride’s parents)
- Request line (“request the honor of your presence”)
- Bride and groom’s names
- Date and time
- Ceremony location
- Reception details
Modern Wedding Invitation Formats
Contemporary couples often prefer these updated approaches:
- Both sets of parents hosting: “[Bride’s parents] together with [Groom’s parents] invite you…”
- Couple hosting: “[Bride] and [Groom] request the pleasure of your company…”
- Casual wording: “Join us for the wedding of…”
Special Circumstances Wording
Different situations require tailored approaches:
Divorced Parents
List names on separate lines: “Mrs. Jane Smith and Mr. John Smith request…”
Deceased Parent
Use “the late”: “The late Mr. James Smith and Mrs. James Smith…”
Religious Ceremonies
Include appropriate terminology: “request the honor of your presence” for religious venues, “pleasure of your company” for secular locations.
Reception Card Wording
- Formal: “Reception immediately following at [venue]”
- Semi-formal: “Please join us for dinner and dancing”
- Casual: “Party to follow at [venue]”
Digital Elements
For modern couples including digital components:
- Wedding website: “For additional details, visit [website]”
- Online RSVP: “Kindly respond by [date] at [website]”
- Virtual attendance: “Live streaming details will be provided”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Including registry information on the main invitation
- Forgetting to proofread multiple times
- Missing crucial details like date and time
- Using abbreviations in formal invitations
Next Steps for Perfect Invitations
Order samples before committing to a full set.
Have multiple people proofread your wording.
Order extra invitations (about 15-20% more than your guest count).
Mail invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding date (8-10 weeks for destination weddings).
Additional Invitation Components
Response Cards
Include clear RSVP deadlines and meal choices if applicable. Traditional format includes:
- M_____ line for guest names
- Accept/Decline options
- Number of guests attending
- Meal selections when needed
Enclosure Cards
Separate cards for supplementary information:
- Accommodation details
- Transportation arrangements
- Weekend activities schedule
- Dress code specifications
Addressing Your Envelopes
Proper envelope addressing maintains formality:
- Outer envelope: Full names with titles
- Inner envelope: More informal, first names acceptable
- Plus-ones: “and Guest” after primary invitee’s name
- Families: “The Smith Family” or individual names
Timing and Organization
- Create guest address spreadsheet 4 months before
- Order invitations 3-4 months before
- Assemble invitation suites 2 months before
- Track RSVPs in organized system
- Follow up with non-respondents 2-3 weeks before deadline
Creating Your Perfect Wedding Story
Your invitation suite serves as the first chapter of your wedding story. Take time to select wording that authentically represents your relationship and celebration style. Remember that while traditions provide valuable guidance, your invitations should ultimately reflect your unique journey as a couple.
Ensure every detail aligns with your vision, from paper selection to typography choices. When executed thoughtfully, your wedding invitations will set the perfect tone for the memorable celebration ahead.
FAQs
- What are the essential elements to include in a wedding invitation?
The essential elements are: names of hosts, couple’s names, date, time, ceremony venue, reception venue, dress code (if applicable), and RSVP information. - When should we send out wedding invitations?
Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. For destination weddings, send them 3-4 months in advance. - How do we word invitations if parents are divorced?
List each parent on a separate line. For example: “Ms. Jane Smith and Mr. John Smith request the pleasure of your company…” If step-parents are included, list them on separate lines as well. - What’s the proper way to word invitations for a couple paying for their own wedding?
Use “Together with their families” or simply “Jane Smith and John Doe request the pleasure of your company…” - How do we indicate that children are not invited?
Address invitations specifically to invited guests and indicate on the RSVP card the number of seats reserved. You can also include “Adult Reception” on the invitation. - Should we include registry information on the wedding invitation?
No, it’s traditionally considered inappropriate to include registry information on the main invitation. Share registry details on your wedding website or through word of mouth. - How do we word invitations for a religious ceremony?
Use appropriate religious terminology such as “request the honor of your presence” for religious ceremonies, versus “request the pleasure of your company” for secular venues. - What’s the proper way to indicate dress code on invitations?
Include dress code in the lower right corner of the invitation or on a separate details card. Use clear terms like “Black Tie,” “Formal Attire,” or “Cocktail Attire.” - How should we handle plus-ones on the invitation?
Address the outer envelope with “Mr. John Smith and Guest” if allowing a plus-one, or simply address to the invited guest only if no plus-one is included. - What’s the proper format for timing on invitations?
Write out all numbers and times formally. For example, “half past four o’clock in the afternoon” rather than “4:30 PM.”