By nature of the event, wedding invitations should conform to certain formalities, no matter how informal the ceremony may be. Following the rules of etiquette can save many misunderstandings and hurt feelings later. In fact, by observing the rules and subtle nuances of what most people consider proper, you set the stage for strong and thoughtful relationships later.
Wedding Invitation Wording
Whether you are having a simple wedding in a backyard or an elaborate affair, the proper wording on your wedding invitation is critical in setting the stage for a well organized event. It is not only used to invite those special in your life, it is also used to inform. Whether it is a second marriage, formal or informal, or an adults only event, the wedding invitation makes that clear.
- In addressing envelopes, write out all names.
- Include reply cards with self stamped and preaddressed envelopes so that you can be certain to plan for the proper number of guests
- If it is an adults only event, only address to the adults of the household. It is improper to say "no children" or "adults only" in invitation wording
- One invitation per household unless adult children over 18 also reside at the same address.
- Spell out all words rather than use abbreviations, including Road, Street, and Avenue.
- For weddings held in an informal or not religious setting, use "request the pleasure of your company." For ceremonies held in a house of worship, use "requests the honour of your presence."
- When hosted by the Bride and groom, "Bride's name and groom's name request the honour of your presence."
- If the ceremony is hosted by the bride's family, her parents names should listed first then the names of the couple. The parent's of the groom should be listed after the groom's name such as: "groom's name, son of Mr. and Mrs." The reverse for weddings hosted by the groom's family.
- When hosted by the bride and groom and their parents, "Bride's name and Groom's name, together with their parents" or if the parents are divorced and remarried, "...together with their parents and their spouses"
- If the event is informal, be sure to state so. It is proper to state "informal attire" in wedding invitation wording in such cases.
- If you do not wish your guests to bring gifts, you may add "Your presence is the only gift we request."
Choosing the Right Invitation Style
The style of invitation should reflect the style of the event. Guest take cues from the style of the wedding invitation and try to dress appropriately for the event. The wedding invitation style or template is their guide to know what to expect. There are many on the market, from traditional and elegant to sleek and contemporary so the one you choose can not only demonstrate what to expect, it can also reflect the taste and style of the couple. A trend that is getting more popular each year is "diy" invitations which allows the creative side to come through.
No comments:
Post a Comment