How to Word Your Wedding Invitations: Examples and Templates
Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will have of your special day. The wording you choose sets the tone and conveys important details about your ceremony and reception. Crafting the perfect wedding invitation can feel daunting, but with a little guidance, you can create an invitation that reflects your unique love story.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key elements of wedding invitation wording, provide examples and templates to inspire you, and offer tips to ensure your invitations are polished and personalized.
Etiquette and Tradition
While wedding invitation wording has become more flexible in recent years, there are still some traditional guidelines to consider. These etiquette rules can help ensure your invitations are formal, elegant, and inclusive.
Who Should Be Included?
The names of the hosts, typically the couple's parents, should be prominently displayed on the invitation. If the couple is hosting the wedding themselves, their names should be featured.
Formal vs. Informal Wording
Formal wedding invitations often use third-person language, such as "request the honor of your presence." More casual invitations may use first-person language, like "We invite you to celebrate with us."
Titles and Formality
Formal invitations typically include titles like "Mr.," "Mrs.," and "Ms." Casual invitations may omit these titles.
Addressing Guests
Invitations should be addressed to specific guests, not just "The Smith Family." Use full names, and include titles for married couples.
RSVP Details
Provide clear instructions for guests to RSVP, including a phone number, email address, or website. Include the RSVP deadline.
Reception Information
If the reception is at a different location than the ceremony, be sure to include the reception details on the invitation or a separate card.
Wording Examples and Templates
Now that you understand the etiquette guidelines, let's explore some wording examples and templates to inspire your own wedding invitations.
Formal Invitation Wording
Mr. and Mrs. John and Jane Doe request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter Emily Rose to Mr. Michael William Smith on Saturday, the fifth of June two thousand and twenty-five at half after five o'clock St. John's Cathedral 123 Main Street Anytown, State
Reception to follow The Grand Hotel 456 Oak Avenue Anytown, State
RSVP by May 15, 2025 (123) 456-7890 emily.and.michael@email.com
Semi-Formal Invitation Wording
Together with their families, Emily Rose Doe and Michael William Smith invite you to celebrate their marriage on Saturday, the fifth of June two thousand and twenty-five at half after five o'clock St. John's Cathedral 123 Main Street Anytown, State
Dinner and dancing to follow The Grand Hotel 456 Oak Avenue Anytown, State
RSVP by May 15, 2025 (123) 456-7890 emily.and.michael@email.com
Casual Invitation Wording
Emily and Michael are getting married! Please join us for our wedding celebration on Saturday, June 5, 2025 at 5:30 pm St. John's Cathedral 123 Main Street Anytown, State
Reception to follow The Grand Hotel 456 Oak Avenue Anytown, State
RSVP by May 15, 2025 emily.and.michael@email.com
Elopement Announcement Wording
Emily Rose Doe and Michael William Smith were married on Saturday, the fifth of June two thousand and twenty-five in a private ceremony.
We're excited to celebrate our marriage with you at a reception on Saturday, June 19, 2025 at 6:00 pm The Grand Hotel 456 Oak Avenue Anytown, State
RSVP by June 1, 2025 (123) 456-7890 emily.and.michael@email.com
Personalization and Customization
While traditional wording is a great starting point, you can (and should!) personalize your wedding invitations to reflect your unique love story and wedding style.
Incorporating Your Wedding Theme
If you have a specific wedding theme or color palette, consider incorporating those elements into your invitation wording and design. For example, a rustic-themed wedding might use more casual language and natural imagery, while a formal, black-tie affair could have elegant, traditional wording.
Adding Personal Touches
Share a meaningful quote, a short anecdote about how you met, or a heartfelt message to your guests. These personal touches make your invitations more meaningful and memorable.
Unique RSVP Options
Instead of a standard RSVP card, consider a creative way for guests to respond, such as a wedding website, a custom postcard, or even a video message.
Multilingual Invitations
If you or your partner's family speaks another language, consider including a translation of the invitation wording. This gesture shows respect and inclusion for all your guests.
Finalizing Your Invitations
Once you've crafted the perfect wording, it's time to finalize the design and logistics of your wedding invitations.
Invitation Suite Components
In addition to the main invitation, your suite may include:
- RSVP card
- Reception card
- Directions/map card
- Accommodations card
Printing and Addressing
Decide whether you'll print your invitations in-house, use a professional printing service, or even hand-calligraph them. Address the envelopes neatly and legibly, using the proper etiquette.
Mailing and Timing
Mail your invitations 6-8 weeks before your wedding date, allowing enough time for guests to RSVP. Be sure to factor in any additional time needed for international or destination weddings.
Conclusion
Your wedding invitations set the tone for your special day and give your guests a glimpse into your love story. By understanding the etiquette, exploring wording examples, and personalizing your invitations, you can create an invitation suite that is both beautiful and meaningful.
Remember, the most important thing is to express your unique love in a way that feels authentic to you and your partner. With a little creativity and attention to detail, your wedding invitations will be a cherished keepsake for years to come.