top of page
Writer's pictureDr. Kristine Smith

Wedding Invitation Tips and Guidelines: How to Create Perfect Invitations



Hey there, lovebirds! Have you started thinking about wedding invitations? Planning a wedding can be super exciting, but let's face it - it can also be overwhelming! Don't worry, though after reading this blog you will have all your wedding invitation questions answered. Whether it's deciding whose name goes first to when to send them out. So grab a glass of bubbly and let's get started!


Whose Name Goes First?


When it comes to the age-old question of whose name should go first on the invitation - we are sorry to break it to you there's no right or wrong answer. You can go the traditional route and list the bride's name first, or you can mix things up and list both your names side by side! In the case of a couple including a bride and a groom, you could even add a little personality to your invitations by listing the groom's name first, just to keep everyone on their toes. For same-sex unions, there is no hard and fast rule, it is truly personal preference.


In the end, the choice is all yours! So whether you want to keep it classic or get creative, remember that your wedding invitations are a reflection of you and your partner's unique love story. So don’t stress, and let your personalities shine through!


How to Address a Wedding Invitation to a Family


When it comes to addressing a wedding invitation to a family, there are a few different

options. If there are kids involved, you can list everyone's names on the invitation for a family-friendly touch. How cute would it be to write "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith and Family" on your invites?


Of course, you can also address the invitation to just the parents if that feels more appropriate. It's totally up to you! And if there are adult children who don't live at home, it's a good idea to send separate invitations to each of them.


Make sure you think about the specifics of the family situation when addressing the invitation. For instance, if the parents are divorced but will both be attending the wedding, you can address the invitation to both parents using their full names, followed by their current addresses. And if one of the parents has remarried, don't forget to include their new spouse's name on the invite.


What Goes Into a Wedding Invitation


Now that we've covered some of the basics of how to address a wedding invitation, let's talk about what actually goes into the invitation itself. Here are the key components of a traditional wedding invitation:

  1. The Host Line: This is the first line of the invitation and lists the names of the hosts. The hosts are typically the parents of the bride or groom, but they can also be other family members or friends who are hosting the wedding.

  2. The Request Line: This line invites the guests to the wedding. It typically starts with "request the honor of your presence" or "request the pleasure of your company."

  3. The Nearlywed Names: This is where you list the couple’s names.

  4. The Date and Time: This section lists the date and time of the wedding ceremony.

  5. The Location: This is where you list the name and address of the wedding venue.

  6. Dress Code: If you have a specific dress code for the wedding, you can include it on the invitation. For example, you might write "black tie" or "casual attire."

  7. RSVP Information: Finally, you should include information about how guests can RSVP to the wedding. This can be done by including a separate response card or by asking guests to RSVP online.


When to Send a Wedding Invitation


It's important to send out wedding invitations with enough time for guests to plan accordingly, but not so early that they forget about the wedding. Based on our experience, we recommend sending out invitations 8-10 weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to make travel arrangements and RSVP but also ensures that the wedding is fresh in their minds.


If you're planning a destination wedding or have a venue in town, it's a good idea to send out save-the-date cards even earlier, around 3-4 months before the wedding. This will give guests enough time to make travel arrangements and ensure that they can attend your wedding.


Creating the perfect wedding invitation can seem like a daunting task, especially when it comes to design and written details. By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your invitations accurately represent you as a couple and your upcoming wedding. Remember, there are no set rules when it comes to whose name goes first or how to address a family, so if going the traditional route isn't for you - get creative! Remember this is your wedding invitation so use these tips to help guide you but we recommend adding your own personal touches to make it unique. If you need help planning your wedding please get in touch with us!





34 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page