Wedding Invitations Wording: Craft Your Dream Invitation
When planning your wedding, one of the most important aspects is creating the perfect invitations. Wedding Invitations Wording follows certain guidelines and etiquette to consider when crafting them. I rounded up some top tips to help you find the perfect message for your special day.
Your Wedding Invitations Wording should provide all the details your guests need about your wedding day, such as the date, time, and location. Be sure to include any additional information that may be helpful for them, like directions or dress code or whether it be a casual backyard affair or a sophisticated soiree.
Your Invitation should reflect the style and tone of your wedding. So adjust the wording and styling, whether formal, casual, or themed.
Remember to proofread your invitations and pay attention to grammar, names, and titles.
Fundamentals of Wedding Invitations Wording
Traditional wedding invitations wording typically follows a standard format, though modern and informal invitations may vary.
Here is a simple outline for you to follow for traditional wedding invitation etiquette.
1. The Host Line
The first line is the location where the party that is hosting the wedding is mentioned. Traditionally, this was the bride’s parents, but today it could be any combination of parents or the couple themselves.
Examples
Parents of the Bride Hosting
“Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter…”
Both Sets of Parents Hosting
“Mr. and Mrs. John Smith and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson request the pleasure of your company at the wedding of their children…”
Divorced Parents Hosting Together
“Mr. John Smith and Ms. Sarah Thompson request your presence at the wedding of their daughter…”
Couple Hosting
“Together with their families, Jane Smith and John Johanson invite you to share in their joy as they tie the knot…”
Couple Hosting with Mention of Parents
“Jane Smith, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, and John Johnson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Johnson, invite you to join them as they exchange their wedding vows…”
2. The Request Line
This line is where the invitees are formally asked to attend the wedding.
Examples
Traditional, Formal, Religious Setting
“request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter…”
Traditional, Formal, Non-religious Setting
“request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter…”
Less Formal, Casual Tone
“invite you to join them at the wedding of…”
Couple Hosting, Direct Invite
“invite you to celebrate with them as they tie the knot…”
Modern, Informal
“would love for you to join them as they say ‘I do’…”
3. the Bride and Groom’s Names
The names of the couple getting married. The bride’s name usually comes first.
Examples
The wedding invitations wording style depends mainly on personal preference and the event’s formality.
Traditional Bride’s Parents Hosting
“at the marriage of their daughter, Jane Elizabeth, to Mr. John Edward Johnson.”
Both Sets of Parents Hosting
“at the wedding of their children, Jane Elizabeth Smith and John Edward Johnson”
Couple Hosting
“at the wedding of Jane Elizabeth Smith and John Edward Johnson”
Casual, Informal Tone
“at the wedding of Jane and John”
Modern, Both Last Names Used
“at the wedding of Jane Smith and John Johnson”
4. the Date and Time
The date and time of the wedding ceremony.
These examples vary in formality, but all provide the necessary information.
Note: Numbers are usually spelled out in formal wedding invitations.
In less formal or casual invitations, numerals can be used.
The term “in the evening” is typically used for weddings taking place after 6 PM, but “in the afternoon” can be used for weddings occurring before 6 PM. However, these rules are not hard and fast, and ultimately, your wedding invitations wording should reflect your style and the tone of the event.
Examples
Traditional, Formal
“on Saturday, the fifth of August, two thousand twenty-three at half after five in the evening”
Slightly Less Formal
“on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at 5:30 in the evening”
Casual
“on August 5, 2023, at 5:30 PM”
Very Informal
“Saturday, August 5, at 5:30 PM”
Informal with Informal Time
“Saturday, August 5, around 5:30 in the evening“
5. the Location
The venue where the wedding ceremony will take place.
Each of these examples is suitable for a different type of wedding, from the most formal to the most casual. In addition to the location, you might also include information about the kind of meal (sit-down dinner, buffet, cocktail reception, etc.) in your wedding invitations wording and any other notable details, like if there will be dancing or different types of entertainment. Remember to provide information that will help your guests plan accordingly.
Same Venue, Formal
“Reception to follow”
Same Venue, Informal
“Followed by food, fun, and dancing”
Different Venue, Formal
“Dinner and dancing to follow at The Grand Ballroom, 123 Park Lane, New York City”
Different Venue, Less Formal
“Join us for the reception at The Grand Ballroom, 123 Park Lane, NY”
Different Venue, Informal
“Let’s celebrate after at The Grand Ballroom, 123 Park Lane”
6. the Reception Details
- If the reception is at the same location as the wedding, it can be stated as “Reception to follow.”
- If it’s elsewhere, the address and time should be included.
Examples
Formal, Same Location
“Reception to follow immediately”
Informal, Same Location
“Join us for dinner, drinks, and dancing immediately following the ceremony”
Formal, Different Location
“A reception will be held at six o’clock in the evening at The Ritz-Carlton, 123 Main Street, City, State”
Informal, Different Location
“We’re throwing a party! Join us at The Ritz-Carlton, 123 Main Street, right after the ceremony”
Specific Activities Mentioned
“Join us for a reception with dinner and dancing to follow at The Beach Club, 123 Ocean Drive”
RSVP Information and Reply Request
To ensure a smooth RSVP process, include a separate RSVP Reply Card in the envelope with the Invitation or provide another way for your guests to confirm their attendance, i.e., a phone number, email address, or website. This may also include a deadline for responses in your wedding invitations wording.
Remember that the specifics of your RSVP card will depend on the information you need from your guests.
For instance, you’ll want to include those details if you offer meal choices or have multiple events surrounding your wedding (like a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch).
Examples
Traditional, Formal:
“M_____________________”
□ Accepts with pleasure
□ Regrets with sorrow”
“Please respond by the first of June”
Include Meal Choice:
“M_____________________”
□ Delighted to attend
□ Sadly, cannot attend
“Please initial your choice of entrée:”
“Beef __ Chicken __ Vegetarian __”
“Kindly reply by June 1”
Include the Number of Attendees:
“Name(s)_____________________”
□ Will attend
□ Unable to attend
“Number of attendees ______”
“Please respond by June 1”
Casual, with Song Request:
“Name(s)_____________________”
□ Can’t wait to celebrate
□ Sending best wishes from afar”
“I/we promise to dance if you play ________________”
“RSVP by June 1”
Modern, with Details about Additional Events:
“Name(s)_____________________”
□ Excited to attend the ceremony and reception
□ Able to attend the ceremony only
□ Attending the rehearsal dinner
□ Regretfully cannot attend
“Please reply by the first of June”
Additional Information
The key to providing additional information is to give your guests all the details they need to comfortably attend and enjoy your event. Always consider what questions you would have as a guest, and try to answer those in advance by including them in your wedding invitations wording.
Examples
Accommodation Details
“A block of rooms has been reserved at the Springfield Hotel for our guests. Please reference the Smith-Johnson wedding when booking. Reservations can be made at www.springfieldhotel.com or by calling (123) 456-7890.”
Transportation Information
“Complimentary shuttle service from the Springfield Hotel to the ceremony and reception venue will be available. Shuttles will depart the hotel every half hour beginning at 2:00 PM.”
Website Information
“For additional details, please visit our wedding website at www.janeandjohnswedding.com. You’ll find information about accommodations, directions, our love story, and more.”
Dress Code
“The attire for the evening is Black Tie Optional. For more information on what this means, please visit our wedding website.”
Childcare or Adult-only Event Information
“Please note, this will be an adults-only celebration. For those in need of childcare, we recommend www.localsitter.com.”
Casual Wedding Invitations Wording
When it comes to casual wedding invitations, the wording should reflect the relaxed nature of your celebration. Keep things simple and focus on expressing your excitement for the big day.
Here are a few ideas to help you craft the perfect casual wedding invitations wording.
To begin, you might choose a lighthearted opening line by incorporating phrases like:
“[name] and [name] are tying the knot!” or “[name] and [name] are getting hitched!”.
This sets a fun and informal tone for your guests right from the start.
For the main body of the Invitation, feel free to let your personality shine through.
Use conversational language and avoid overly formal phrases.
You can include essential details such as the date, time, and location of the wedding. For instance, try something like:
“Join us on [date] at [time] for an unforgettable day at [venue]. Wear your dancing shoes, as we’ll be celebrating the night away!”
Your wedding invitations wording can be playful or creative:
“Please join us for the sandy toes and salty kisses as You and Your partner celebrate their beach wedding Date, Time, Location”
In a casual invitation, using first names for both you and your partner is completely acceptable.
Additionally, consider skipping the traditional host line, especially if multiple people contribute to the wedding costs. This will help maintain a more informal tone.
When requesting RSVPs, aim for a friendly and approachable tone.
Rather than a formal “Kindly RSVP,” opt for a more laid-back approach like “Let us know if you can make it!” or “We’d love to know if you’ll be joining us.”
Remember to provide a response deadline and contact information for your guests to get in touch easily.
In summary, when writing casual wedding invitations wording, keep the language straightforward and relaxed, letting your enthusiasm for the big day shine.
Focus on the essential details and maintain a welcoming tone with your guests. Remember, this is a celebration, so keep things fun and easygoing!
Destination Wedding Invitations Wording
Destination wedding invitations typically have a similar structure to standard wedding invitations, but they often include more information.
This is because guests will need to make travel and lodging arrangements, potentially request time off from work, and so on. The tone in your destination wedding invitations wording can often be less formal, reflecting the vacation-like nature of these events.
Here’s what might differ:
Save-the-Date:
For destination weddings, it’s even more important to send out save-the-dates well in advance (usually six to twelve months before the wedding) to give guests plenty of time to arrange travel.
Additional Information:
It’s particularly important to provide information about accommodation options, travel arrangements, local transportation, and any planned group activities.
Invitation Timing:
Invitations for destination weddings typically go out earlier than for local weddings, often three to four months before the wedding date.
Multiple Event Details:
Destination weddings often span several days, with multiple events (like a welcome dinner or a post-wedding brunch). The Invitation or an enclosure card might provide a schedule for these events.
Wedding Website:
Given the additional information that needs to be communicated, nearly all destination weddings will benefit from a dedicated wedding website where guests can get updated details.
Here’s a rough example:
Front of the Invitation
Please join us
for a weekend in the sun
celebrating the wedding of
Jane Elizabeth Smith
and
John Edward Johnson
April 5, 2023
The Beach Resort
123 Ocean View
Hamilton, Bermuda
Details card
We have a weekend full of celebrations planned:
Thursday, April 3, 2023
Welcome Dinner at 7 PM
The Beach Resort
Friday, April 4, 2023
Group Excursion at 10 AM
Meet in the Hotel Lobby
Rehearsal Dinner at 7 PM
Seabreeze Grill Beach Resort
Saturday, April 5, 2023
Ceremony at 4 PM
Reception to follow
Sunday, April 6, 2023
Farewell Brunch at 10 AM
The Beach Resort
Accommodations have been reserved at The Beach Resort under the Smith-Johnson Wedding. Visit our website for travel details and more: www.janeandjohnswedding.com
Bride and Groom’s Personal Touch
Adding a personal touch to your wedding invitations can make them more memorable and meaningful.
Here are a few ways to personalize your invitations:
Incorporate Your Story:
Consider including elements of your story as a couple in the design or wording of your invitations. This could be something as subtle as using a color scheme that reflects a significant place or event in your relationship or as explicit as including a brief description of how you met or got engaged.
Use Your Own Wording:
Traditional wedding invitations wording can feel formal and impersonal. Feel free to change the phrasing to better reflect your voice and the tone of your event. For instance, instead of the standard “request the honor of your presence,” you could say “invite you to share in our joy.”
Include a Quote or Poem:
If a quote or poem is particularly meaningful to you as a couple, consider incorporating it into your Invitation.
Add a Handwritten Note:
If your guest list is small enough to make this manageable, consider adding a handwritten note to each Invitation.
Design Elements:
Use design elements that reflect your personality or shared interests. For example, if you’re both passionate about music, you could design your invitations to look like concert tickets or vinyl records.
Include a Photo:
If it suits your style, consider using a photo of you two on the save-the-dates or even the invitations. It adds a personal touch and gives guests a lovely keepsake.
Custom Illustrations or Graphics:
Hire an artist to create a custom illustration or monogram for your Invitation. This could be a drawing of the two of you, your wedding venue, or any other element that’s meaningful to you.
Signature Touch:
If you both are known for something, like a common hobby, favorite pet, or shared love for something unique, you can incorporate it into your Invitation as a signature touch.
Remember, the goal is to make your invitations feel unique to you and your relationship and to set the tone for your wedding day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Appropriate Etiquette For Wedding Invitations Wording?
When wording your wedding invitations, it’s important to include essential information, such as the names of the hosts, the couple’s names, and the date, time, and location of the wedding.
You should also consider the tone and formality of your event. For a traditional invitation, use formal language and proper titles. For a more casual event, you can use informal language and first names.
How Do We Include Both Sets Of Parents On Our Wedding Invitations?
To include both sets of parents on your wedding invitations wording, list their names on separate lines in the host section. The bride’s parents are typically listed first, followed by the groom’s parents.
For example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
and
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Johnson
request the pleasure of your company
at the marriage of their children…
What are some creative ideas for wedding invitations wording?
Creative wedding invitations wording can reflect your personality and/or the theme of your wedding. Consider incorporating a quote, song lyrics, or a line from a poem. You can also play with the design and typography to add a unique touch.
Here are a few ideas:
Humorous Approach: “We finally decided to tie the knot! Join us on [date] as we celebrate the start of a beautiful, humorous, and exciting journey.”
Love Story: “Once upon a time, we fell in love. Now we’re ready to begin our forever. Join us on [date] to celebrate our love story.”
Adventure Theme: “Join us for the adventure of a lifetime as we, [bride’s name] and [groom’s name], embark on our greatest journey yet. We’re tying the knot on [date] and would be thrilled if you could join us.”
Pop Culture References: “Just like Harry found Ginny, we found each other. It’s a love story worth celebrating, and we want you to be a part of it on [date].”
Movie Style: “You’re invited to a star-studded event featuring [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] in ‘The Wedding’. Premiere is on [date] – red carpet arrival from [time].”
Nature-Inspired: “Under the open sky and by the gentle whisper of the wind, we, [bride’s name] and [groom’s name], are getting married. Join us in this beautiful communion with nature and love on [date].”
Casual and Personal: “We’re getting hitched! Pull out your dancing shoes and join us for a night of revelry on [date].”
Rhyme or Poem: “Two families unite, love, takes flight, on this very special night. Join [bride’s name] and [groom’s name] as they become one, on a night filled with stars, under the setting sun.”
Travel Themed: “Pack your bags for a wedding journey! Join us in [destination] on [date] as we say ‘I do’.”
Remember, the key to creative wedding invitations wording is ensuring it reflects you as a couple. The words should be comfortable, genuine, and fun for you both.
Should We Use Formal Or Informal Language On Our Wedding Invitations?
The language used on your wedding invitations should reflect the tone and formality of your event. For a traditional or formal wedding, stick to formal language and protocol. For a more casual or intimate affair, feel free to use informal language and first names. Remember that your wedding invitations set the tone for your guests, so choose wording that represents your event accurately.
What Is The Correct Way To Write Names On Wedding Invitation Envelopes?
On the outer envelope, use full names and formal titles. For married couples, use “Mr. and Mrs.,” followed by the husband’s name. List each person’s name on a separate line for unmarried couples living together. For families, include children’s names in alphabetical order below the parents’ names.
Addressing wedding invitation envelopes properly is important as it sets the tone for your event and shows respect for your guests.
Here are some general rules:
Outer Envelope: The outer envelope of your wedding invitation should be more formal, with names and addresses spelled out.
Married Couples:
“Mr. and Mrs. John Doe” or, for a more modern, egalitarian style: “Mr. John and Mrs. Jane Doe”
Unmarried Couples Living Together:
“Mr. John Doe and Ms. Jane Smith”
Families: “Mr. and Mrs. John Doe and Family” or “The Doe Family”
Single Guests with a Plus-One:
“Ms. Jane Smith and Guest”
Professionals:
Use professional titles where applicable, for example: “Dr. Jane Smith and Mr. John Doe”
Inner Envelope: The inner envelope can be less formal and can use first names or nicknames. For example, “Aunt Jane and Uncle John” or “Dr. Smith and Mr. Doe”.
Married Couples: “John and Jane”
Unmarried Couples Living Together: “John and Jane”
Families: “John, Jane, Billy, and Susie”
Single Guests with a Plus-One: “Jane and Guest”
Remember, these are traditional rules, and using less formal language or a more egalitarian wording style is becoming increasingly common. Most importantly, your Invitation feels respectful and appropriate for your event. Always double-check that names are spelled correctly, and addresses are up-to-date.
Are There Any Popular Wedding Invitation Quotes Or Sayings To Consider?
There are countless quotes and sayings that can be used on wedding invitations. Some popular choices include lines from poetry, romantic quotes, or scripture passages. Choose a quote or saying that is meaningful to you and your partner and reflects the theme or feeling of your event.
Here are a few quotes that you might consider:
Classic Love Quotes:
“Love does not consist in gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
“Where there is love, there is life.” – Mahatma Gandhi
From Literature:
“Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same.” – Emily Bronte, Wuthering Heights
“I would not wish any companion in the world but you.” – William Shakespeare, The Tempest
Biblical Verses:
“Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy; it does not boast, it is not proud.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4
“Two are better than one.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9
Humorous:
“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” – Charles M. Schulz
“You can’t blame gravity for falling in love.” – Albert Einstein
Song Lyrics:
“All you need is love, love. Love is all you need.” – The Beatles
“I have found the one whom my soul loves.” – Song of Solomon 3:4
Poetic Quotes:
“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning
“Love’s not Time’s fool, though rosy lips and cheeks within his bending sickle’s compass come.” – William Shakespeare, Sonnet 116
The best quote or saying to include in your wedding invitation is one that reasonably speaks to you and your relationship. It should reflect both your personalities and the spirit of your celebration.
How do you create a wedding invitation message for WhatsApp?
WhatsApp messages are usually less formal and can reflect your personal tone and style. Also, always double-check that the date, time, and location details are accurate before sending.
Here are five examples of wedding invitation messages that could be sent via WhatsApp:
Traditional Style
“Dear [Guest’s Name], We invite you to share in our joy as we, [Your Name] and [Your Partner’s Name], unite in marriage on [Date] at [Venue]. We look forward to celebrating this special day with you. More details to follow.”
Informal Style
“Hey [Guest’s Name]! We’re getting married! Please join us on [Date] at [Venue] to help celebrate. Looking forward to seeing you there! Love, [Your Names]”
Detailed Message
“Hello [Guest’s Name], We are delighted to invite you to the wedding celebration of [Your Name] and [Your Partner’s Name] on [Date]. The ceremony will begin at [Time] at [Venue], followed by a reception. Save the date and join us in celebrating this wonderful journey of love. More details to follow.”
Simple and Sweet
“Hi [Guest’s Name], [Your Name] & [Your Partner’s Name] are tying the knot! We’d be honored if you could join us on [Date] at [Venue]. Let’s make some unforgettable memories together!”
Virtual Wedding Announcement
“Dear [Guest’s Name], As much as we’d love to have you with us in person, we’ve decided to get married in a small, private ceremony. But we still want to share our special day with you! Please join us virtually on [Date] as we say ‘I do’. More details to follow on how you can join us online.”
