Weddings are celebrations filled with love, laughter, and personal moments. One of the essential elements of any wedding is the wedding invitation. It serves as a formal announcement of the upcoming nuptials and sets the tone for the entire event. To ensure that your wedding invitation process goes smoothly and you avoid any unintended missteps, we have compiled a list of do's and don'ts of wedding invitation etiquette.
The Do's
Send Invitations in a Timely Manner:
Send out your wedding invitations at least 8-10 weeks in advance for in-town weddings and 12 weeks for destination weddings. This timeframe is a little earlier than past recommendations. The post office is slower than ever so expect delays and be prepared to follow up with any guests you don't hear back from. This allows guests enough time to RSVP and make necessary arrangements. For destination weddings or if many guests need to travel, consider sending save-the-date cards even earlier.
Provide Clear and Concise Information:
Include all essential details on the invitation, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. If there are any additional events like rehearsal dinners, welcome parties or post-wedding brunches, mention them separately. Don't forget to provide a rsvp card for your guests to send back. Another option that is gaining popularity is an online rsvp card which asks your guests to reply via your wedding website. You can collect additional information like entree selections or travel arrangements. Clearly indicate the deadline for responses, allowing you to finalize your guest list and make necessary arrangements.
Address Invitations Correctly
Address each invitation correctly by using formal titles and proper names. If you're uncertain about someone's preferred title, it's best to use "Mr." or "Ms." followed by their last name. If using inner envelopes, remember to list the names of all individuals invited, making it clear who is and is not invited to your wedding. Read our comprehensive how-to guide to correctly address your guests!
Use a Consistent Style
Ensure that your wedding invitation suite, including the invitation, envelopes, and RSVP cards, follows a cohesive style. This will give your guests a glimpse of your wedding theme or color scheme. We like to say our invitations make your guests want to go out and buy a new outfit!
Proof read, proof read and proof read again!
We cannot stress enough how important it is to review your stationery proofs before signing off for them to go to print. It's always a good idea to have another set of eyes read over them before sending final approval. Double-checking all names, dates, missing information, and that venue names & addresses are correct to ensure accuracy. Carefully proofread the content to avoid any spelling or grammatical errors. Reprints can be very costly and cause a delay in sending to your guests.
The Don'ts:
Don't Include Registry Information
Avoid including your gift registry details on the wedding invitation. It is considered poor etiquette. Instead, share this information through word of mouth or on your wedding website.
Don't Overwhelm with Excessive Details
While you may be bursting with excitement, resist the urge to overload your invitation with excessive details. Avoid overwhelming your guests with driving directions, maps, or every little aspect of the celebration. Instead, let your invitation be a beautiful glimpse into the magic of your wedding day, leaving room for curiosity and anticipation.
If your guests need to know a lot of information beforehand, consider put it on your wedding website. Then, have your details card direct your recipients to your website to read the full amount of info!
Don't Assume Plus-Ones
When it comes to plus-ones, be mindful of your budget and venue capacity. Unless explicitly stated, it's not necessary to invite a plus-one for every guest. Trust that your guests will understand and respect your choices, as your celebration is an intimate reflection of your love story.
Don't Use Abbreviations or Nicknames
When addressing invitations, avoid using abbreviations or nicknames unless it's a well-known and preferred name. Use formal titles and full names to maintain the formality of the invitation.
Wedding invitation etiquette plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your big day. By following these do's and don'ts, you can ensure that your invitations reflect the elegance and grace of your wedding while making your guests feel valued and appreciated. Remember, clear communication, attention to detail, and respect for traditions are the key elements that will make your wedding invitation process a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Happy planning!
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