How to Word Your Wedding Invitations: A Complete Guide

Ahh, wedding invites – one of those little details that seem simple until you actually sit down to write them. Suddenly, you’re knee-deep in phrasing dilemmas: do you go formal or casual? Who’s doing the inviting? And how on earth do you politely ask for money instead of gifts?

Fret not! Your wedding invitation is more than just names and dates; it sets the tone for your big day. Whether you're planning a grand affair or a laid-back countryside do, we’ve got you covered. Grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let’s make this easy.

The Essentials: What Every Wedding Invitation Needs

Before we get fancy with wording, let’s cover the must-haves. Every wedding invitation should include:

• Who’s hosting – Traditionally, this was the bride’s parents, but these days, many couples host their own wedding.
• The happy couple’s names – Do you prefer full names or something more relaxed? (Emma Louise & Thomas James or just Emma & Tom?)
• Date, time, and venue – Don’t forget the postcode – Auntie Sue will definitely get lost otherwise!
• RSVP details – Include a deadline, or you’ll be chasing replies ‘til the cows come home (unless you include a separate RSVP card).

Formal vs. Casual Wording

The style of your invite should match the vibe of your wedding. A black-tie soirée calls for elegant, traditional wording, while a rustic barn wedding might suit something more relaxed. Here are some examples:

Formal Wedding Invitation Wording

Mr and Mrs John Smith request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter, Emily Rose, to Mr James Robert Brown, on Saturday, the fifteenth of June, two thousand twenty-four, at two o’clock in the afternoon, at The Manor House, Wiltshire.

Modern & Relaxed Wedding Invitation Wording

Together with their families, Emily & James invite you to celebrate their wedding on Saturday 15th June 2024, at 2 PM, The Manor House, Wiltshire. Dinner, drinks & dancing to follow!

Which one suits your day best? If your wedding has a formal dress code, stick to the first. If it’s a festival-style bash in a field, the second option will feel more at home.

How to Word Tricky Situations

Sometimes, wedding invitations require a little extra thought. Here’s how to tackle some common dilemmas:

Divorced or Remarried Parents

If your parents are separated but both want to be included on the invite, you can word it like this:

Mr John Smith and Mrs Sarah Jones request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter…

For remarried parents:

Mr and Mrs John Smith & Mr and Mrs David Jones request the pleasure of your company…

No Plus-Ones or Child-Free Weddings

Being clear on who’s invited avoids awkward questions later. Try:

• Due to space limitations, we are unable to accommodate plus-ones.
• We love your little ones, but our wedding will be an adults-only affair.

Asking for Money Instead of Gifts (Without Sounding Cheeky!)

It’s totally fine to ask for contributions rather than gifts, but it’s all about the wording:

Your presence at our wedding is the greatest gift of all! However, if you’d like to give a little something, a contribution to our honeymoon fund would be truly appreciated.

COVID-Era “Just in Case” Wording

Planning a wedding in uncertain times? A gentle nod to potential changes helps:

We can’t wait to celebrate with you! Should anything change, we’ll keep you updated on our wedding website.

Final Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Proofread, proofread, proofread! Double-check dates, spellings, and times.
• Keep it clear & elegant. Overly wordy invites can be confusing.
• Consider your guests. If Granny won’t understand modern wording, go classic.
• Check postage! Thicker invites may cost more to send – none of your guests want to pay the post person to receive your invite!

Ready to Create Your Perfect Wedding Invitations?

Now that you’ve nailed the wording, it’s time to bring your invitations to life! At SageVows, we craft beautifully designed wedding stationery that’s as meaningful as your vows.

Explore our collections today, or sign up for our mailing list for more wedding planning tips and exclusive designs.

Now, off you go – grab that cuppa and start crafting your perfect invites!