You've picked out your perfect wedding invitations, now it's time to get down to the details. Wedding invitation etiquette can get tricky - but we're here to help! Read on to learn our tips for wording your perfect invitation.
Host Names
Based on traditional wedding invitation etiquette, the first lines of your invitations should be telling your guests who is hosting the wedding. If more than one family is hosting, or if the couple is paying themselves, or even if you have a complicated family, there are many other wording options for you. One of the more popular choices is “Together with their families”, since couples feel like it’s a perfect way to say that all families had a hand in contributing to their big day.
Request Line
This is where you ask your guests to attend your wedding. Based on the formality of your ceremony, or even your unique personality, there are many ways to word this. Something more traditional is: “cordially invite you to celebrate the wedding of.”
The Couple
The couple's name is one of the most special, and memorable, pieces of your wedding invitations. The bride’s name usually appears before the groom’s name. If the bride's parents are listed at the top, then only her first and middle name are needed, since her last name is at the top with her parents. Traditionally, it would be the groom's full name. For a less formal feel, you can use only first names or opt for only first and last, without any middle names. Same sex couples can be listed in any order you choose.
Groom's Parents (optional)
Occasionally, the groom’s parents are added after the groom’s name. You can add something like “son of Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Reeves”. This is the most traditional way to do so, but not required, and you won't be breaking any wedding invitation etiquette rules if you don't include them.
Date and Time
Traditionally, all dates and times are spelled out on the wedding invitations, but again, modern weddings sometimes use the numerical references for dates. When writing the date, the day of the week is always capitalized, as well as the month and the first letter of the year. When writing the time, everything should be spelled out, with references only to morning, afternoon and evening. Any references to half-hour increments should be written as “half past two in the afternoon”.
Ceremony Location
Include the location of your ceremony, as well as the city and state. Zip codes are not normally included, but if you feel that your guests will be confused by leaving it off, by all means include it.
Reception
Include the location of your reception (if it differs from the ceremony site). You can have fun here by saying "dinner and dancing to follow" or just the standard "reception to follow". It's a great place to mention if it's adults only or if special attire is requested.
