Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Dos and Don'ts for the Perfect Invite

Your wedding invitation is the first glimpse your guests have into your special day, setting the tone for the celebration to come. Crafting and sending wedding invitations requires attention to etiquette and details to ensure that every guest feels honoured and welcomed. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover the dos and don'ts of wedding invitation etiquette, including wording guidelines and addressing tips, to help you create the perfect invite that reflects your love and sets the stage for a memorable wedding.

Dos:

Send Invitations in a Timely Manner

Aim to send out your wedding invitations at least 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. For destination weddings or if many guests are traveling from afar, consider sending them even earlier, up to 12 weeks in advance. This gives guests ample time to make travel arrangements and RSVP.

Include All Necessary Information

Your wedding invitation should include essential details such as the names of the couple, date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. If you're having multiple events, such as a rehearsal dinner or post-wedding brunch, include separate cards or details on the main invitation.

Select Clear and Elegant Wording

Choose your wording carefully to convey the tone and formality of your wedding. Traditional wording typically includes phrases like "request the honor of your presence" for a religious ceremony and "request the pleasure of your company" for a secular one. However, feel free to customize the wording to suit your personalities and wedding style.

Proofread Thoroughly

Before printing your invitations, proofread every detail to avoid any errors or misspellings. Enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member to review the invitations as well.

Include RSVP Information

Make it easy for guests to RSVP by including response cards with stamped envelopes or providing an online RSVP option. Clearly indicate the RSVP deadline to ensure you receive timely responses.

Use Proper Titles and Names

Address your guests using their proper titles (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.) and full names. If you're inviting a family, list all members' names on the invitation. For unmarried couples living together, use both names on the invitation.

Consider Including Additional Enclosures

Depending on your wedding plans, you may include extra enclosures, such as accommodation information, directions to the venue, or a wedding website card. Keep the invitations clutter-free and organized by using separate cards for each piece of information.

Personalize with Handwritten Notes

Add a personal touch by including a handwritten note to some of your guests, especially close family members and friends. Express your excitement and gratitude for their presence at your wedding.

Don'ts

Avoid Mentioning Registry Details

It's considered impolite to include registry information on your wedding invitation. Let guests inquire about your registry through your wedding website or spread the word through close family and friends.

Skip E-vites for Formal Weddings

While electronic invitations (e-vites) are practical for certain events, they may not be suitable for formal weddings. Stick to traditional paper invitations for a more elegant and sophisticated touch.

Don't Use Abbreviations

Avoid using abbreviations, such as "RSVP" or "BFF," on your wedding invitation. Spell out all words in full for a more formal and polished appearance.

Don't Overcrowd the Invitation

Keep the design and layout of your invitation clean and uncluttered. Avoid using too many fonts, colors, or decorative elements that can make the invitation appear busy.

Steer Clear of Potentially Confusing Dress Codes

Be clear and concise when specifying the dress code on your invitation. Avoid using vague terms like "semi-formal" or "dressy casual," as they can lead to confusion. Instead, use specific dress code descriptions like "black-tie," "cocktail attire," or "beach formal."

Don't Include Children's Names on Inner Envelopes

When addressing inner envelopes, it's not necessary to include the names of children invited to the wedding. Simply list the parents' names, and indicate the children's names on the outer envelope if they are invited.

Avoid Hand-Delivering Invitations

Mail your wedding invitations rather than hand-delivering them, as hand-delivery may inadvertently cause guests to feel obligated to RSVP on the spot.

Don't Wait Until the Last Minute

Avoid waiting until the last minute to send out your invitations. Give yourself plenty of time to design, print, and address them, ensuring they are sent out in a timely manner.

By following these dos and don'ts of wedding invitation etiquette, you can create elegant and thoughtful invitations that reflect the love and excitement you have for your special day. Thoughtful wording, proper addressing, and attention to detail will set the tone for a celebration that your guests will cherish as much as you do.