Don’t get lost for words when it comes to your wedding invitation. We’ve answered the 5 most frequently asked questions about the wording of wedding invitations. Let’s get started!
We have a complicated family situation, how do we write the host line?
The host let’s the guests know who is extending the invitation, i.e. paying for the wedding. Traditionally this is the Bride’s parents, “Mr. & Mrs. James” but, nowadays, so many modern couples share the costs between themselves and both set of parents. Divorced and remarried parents sharing the costs of the event can also add a challenge to this line. In these situations, most couple’s decide to cover all their bases and use, “Together with our families/parents.”
Divorced Bride’s parents can all be listed, mother first.
Samantha James (or Mr. & Mrs. Robert Smith, if remarried)
and
Thomas James (or Mr. & Mrs. Thomas James)
How do I politely let our guests know that our wedding is adult’s only (no children)?
Writing “no children” or “adults only” on your wedding invitations is not considered polite. Rather, it would be best to indicate the number of guests and their names the response cards. If you receive calls asking whether or not children can come, be honest and explain that you are having a small intimate wedding or that the venue is not child friendly.
Make sure to address your invitations correctly — to each guest by name, not “and guest” — and that your guests understand that the invite is meant for only those mentioned. If you find that some reply with their children’s names added, give them a call and explain that you’re having an adults-only wedding and that you hope they can still attend. If there are a lot of kids in your family, you may want to consider hiring or arranging for a babysitter. It’s definitely not required, but it is a nice gesture. Just be sure to include this information on your wedding website.
Where should we include our wedding website?
It is becoming more popular for couples to share their wedding website somewhere on their invitation suite. If your invitation doesn’t have room, it is okay to print it on a small card, sticker or belly band.
How do I let our guests know about the dress code?
Traditionally, if your wedding is black tie, you may write it in the lower right hand corner of your invitation or reception card (if you have one). If you require a little more room to explain we suggest putting that information on your website.
Typically from the style of your invitations, the time, setting and season of the event, your guests can decide on what dress is best for the occasion. However, if you would prefer your guest to arrive in specific attire, such as black tie, including this information at the bottom of your wedding invitations is recommended. Otherwise, you may also include an enclosure card stating attire information for your guests. For example: “The ceremony & reception will be on the lawn; choose your footwear accordingly.” or “This will be an outdoor ceremony and reception, please bring a sweater or jacket to keep warm.”
Can we include our registry info on our invitations or save-the-dates?
In a word, no. Including registry info on the wedding invitations or save-the-dates is still considered impolite. Tell your wedding party, parents and close friends where you are registered, and let them fill guests in. Most guests will know that all the extra information (that they didn’t find on the invitation) is on your wedding website.
Do you have any other questions about your wedding invites? Don’t hesitate to contact us at info@whimsydesignstudio.com!
