Printerette FAQ's: How Do I Word My Wedding Invitations
Figuring out the proper wording for an invitation suite can be a bit overwhelming. Many of our couples want to know things like What names need to be included? Do they need to include middle names? Do you write out the full date or just use numerals? We've put together a few examples for different parts of the invitation to give you a place to start.
Formal wording | One Set of Parents Hosting
In traditional invitation wording, the bride’s parents would appear first on the invitation to indicate they are hosting. You would also include 'Mr. and Mrs.' as their formal titles. Following would be the request line inviting the guest to the wedding. When the bride's parents’ names are used, it's customary to use the first and middle name only for the bride and full name for the groom. The date and time of the wedding would be spelled out rather than using numerals in a formal affair. Numerals would only be used for the address of the venue of the ceremony and reception.
Casual Wording | One Set of Parents Hosting
For more casual wording, it's common to use first and last name only and skip the titles. You can also use numerals to call out dates or time.
Formal Wording | Both Sets of Parents Hosting
When both parents are hosting a formal event, you'll use the same basic format as when one set of parents is hosting. The difference being you would include the groom's parents immediately following the bride's and the start of the invitation. You would keep the titles as well.
Casual Wording | Both Sets of Parents Hosting
When both parents are hosting a more casual affair, you can skip the titles and follow the same rules as a casual even with one set hosting. The request line of 'invite you to celebrate' is also considered a bit more casual as compared to 'request the honor of your presence'.
Formal Wording | The Couple is Hosting
When the couple is hosting, you would skip right to the request line of the invitation and include full names of both the bride and groom in the body of the invitation. The request line indicates formality here with 'the pleasure of your company is requested'. Another formal request line frequently used is 'the honor of your presence is requested'.
Casual Wording | The Couple is Hosting
When both couples are hosting a casual event, you can keep the request line loose and use that as an indication of what kind of wedding you'll be having. You can also skip middle names or initials and keep it to first and last.
By no means does this post cover all the possible wording options there are for wedding invitations. We've fielded plenty of scenarios over the years here at Printerette and would be happy to help you through any situation! Drop us a line! hello@printerettepress.com.