Proper Invitation Etiquette

You just got engaged, and perhaps you’re starting to feel a bit overwhelmed by all there is to do to plan your perfect wedding! An important part of your planning process is the creation and deliverance of your invitations, your own unique way to announce your happy day and welcome friends and family. Along with all other parts of your wedding, there should be certain etiquette to be followed, while hopefully displaying a constant image and message throughout your event. To make your planning easier and provide you with answers to any questions you may have, I have put together a list of some common rules of etiquette.

Who’s hosting?

Traditionally the parents of the bride are the hosts of the wedding, but nowadays anything goes.

If the bride’s parents are indeed hosting and paying for the bulk of the wedding expenses, include their names on the invitation. For example, “Mr. and Mrs. John Doe request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter Jane Doe to Bob Jones…”

If the groom’s parents are hosting, include their names instead.

If both sets of parents are contributing equally to the wedding, use such language as “Together with their families, Jane Doe and Bob Jones request the pleasure of your company at their wedding.”

If the couple themselves are hosting, include something to the extent of “Jane Doe and Bob Jones request the pleasure of your company at their wedding.”

When is it?

Tradition and etiquette dictate that you should spell out the number in the date; for example, “On Sunday, the fifth of July, two thousand and fourteen.”

If your wedding begins at a half hour, prefer to use “half after” when referring to your time.

Refrain from the use of AM or PM’s; instead, use “in the morning,” or “in the afternoon.”

What else do I need to know?

It is not necessary to invite a “plus one” for each of your guests if you’re hoping to keep the event intimate. Most guests would understand that the invitation is not extended if there is no mention of a plus one or guest.

Feel free to include concerns regarding apparel on your invitation. Language such as “black tie” or “semi casual” give guests an idea of what they’re expected to wear to your wedding.

Refrain from mentioning information about your registry on your invitation as it is commonly seen as impolite.

Hopefully these tips help alleviate some of your invitation concerns! At the end of the day remember that this is your special day, and that no amount of tradition should bar you from your dream wedding!

 

for more information on how to address the invitation :

https://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/how-to-address-wedding-invitations.htm