Wedding Invitation Etiquette: Formal Wording Tips for a Classy Wedding Invitation Suite
As a wedding stationer based in the picturesque San Luis Obispo, California, I know how important it is to set the right tone with your wedding invitations. Your invites are the first glimpse your guests will have into your special day, and they should reflect your style and the formality of your wedding. In this post, I’ll share essential tips on wedding invitation wording etiquette to help you create beautiful, romantic wedding invitations that resonate with your loved ones.
The Host Line
The host line is a crucial component of your elegant wedding invitations. It is the first thing guests will see, and it provides important context about who is inviting them to the wedding. The host line traditionally features the bride’s parents. However, modern couples often opt for a more inclusive approach by listing both sets of parents or even themselves. Here are some examples:
Traditional: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter”
Mix: “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith and Mr. and Mrs. Bill Jones are pleased to invite to the marriage of their children”
Modern: “Together with their families, Emily Johnson and Michael Lee invite you to celebrate their marriage”
When considering your host line, reflect on your family dynamics and how you want to present your wedding to guests. This is an important element that lays the groundwork for your elegant wedding invitations.
The Request Line
The request line is where you formally invite your guests to your celebration. Your choice of wording can set the tone for your California Central Coast wedding. Common phrases include:
“Request the honor of your presence” (ideal for religious ceremonies)
“Joyfully invite you to celebrate” (perfect for secular events)
“Are pleased to invite you”
Select the language that best matches the formality of your wedding. If you’re planning a sophisticated affair, more traditional wording works well. For a relaxed gathering, feel free to use a lighter tone.
The Names of the Couple
The names of the couple are the focal point of your wedding invitation and should be prominently displayed. In formal invitations, it’s traditional for the bride’s name to appear first, typically including only her first and middle names, followed by the groom’s full name. For example:
“Emily Marie and Michael William Lee.”
This format applies when the bride’s parents are listed in the host line. Traditionally, the groom’s parents are not included, which is why the groom’s last name is featured here. If the groom’s parents are mentioned, you can omit his last name. For example:
“Alison May and Robert Steven”
If you’re planning a romantic wedding and will be hyphenating or adopting a new last name, ensure that this choice is clear and consistent throughout your invitation. Remember, your names should be beautifully highlighted in your elegant wedding invitation.
The Date and Time
Clarity is key when stating the date and time of your wedding. Use formal wording to eliminate any confusion. A classic format is:
“Saturday, the fifteenth of June, two thousand twenty-four, at four o'clock in the afternoon.”
Ensure you spell out all numbers and avoid abbreviations to maintain an elegant appearance. If your guests are traveling from different time zones, consider mentioning the time zone as well, especially for destination weddings along the California Central Coast.
The Venue
Your venue's name is a vital part of your wedding invitation, but keep in mind that the street address should be saved for a details card. Here’s how you might format your venue information:
“Greengate Ranch and Vineyard, San Luis Obispo, California”
“Chateau Robles, Paso Robles, California”
“La Lomita Ranch, San Luis Obispo, California”
This clean layout not only keeps your romantic wedding invitations looking sophisticated but also makes it easy for guests to know where to go. If your venue has unique features, you can highlight those in your details card or on your wedding website for an extra touch.
Dress Code
If you have a specific dress code for your wedding, it’s crucial to communicate this clearly to your guests. Dress codes help set expectations and ensure everyone feels comfortable. Here’s how to convey this:
Formal/Black Tie: “Black Tie Attire Requested”
Cocktail: “Cocktail Attire”
Casual: “Dressy Casual”
Including the dress code in your San Luis Obispo wedding invitations can help guests prepare and align with the overall vibe of your celebration.
Additional Considerations
Language and Tone
The language you choose for your wedding invitation should reflect your personal style and the tone of your event. If your wedding has a whimsical or casual flair, don’t hesitate to infuse your wording with personality. Your invitations should tell your unique love story and capture the essence of your special day.
Proofreading
Before sending out your invitations, make sure to double-check every detail. Spelling errors or incorrect information can lead to unnecessary confusion for your guests. It’s always helpful to have someone else proofread your invites to catch any mistakes you may have missed.
Timing
Send your invitations well in advance—typically eight to twelve weeks before the wedding date. For destination weddings or events during busy seasons, consider sending them even earlier to give guests ample time to make travel arrangements.
Conclusion
Creating your wedding invitations is an exciting part of planning your romantic wedding. By adhering to these wording etiquette tips, you can craft beautiful, elegant wedding invitations that not only inform but also inspire your guests. Remember to keep your personal style at the forefront, and don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional stationer, like me, to ensure everything is perfect.
In the stunning San Luis Obispo area, we’re surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and vibrant community spirit, making our weddings truly memorable. Let your invitations reflect this charm, inviting your loved ones to join you in celebration on the California Central Coast.
Looking for examples for elegant and formal wedding invitations? Check out my portfolio for inspiration!
Happy planning!
xoxo
Adrienne
