Wedding invitations are more than just a piece of paper—they’re a glimpse into your big day and set the tone for the entire event. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the right wedding invitation etiquette can make a huge difference. Let’s cover the key do’s and don’ts to help you send out invitations that will leave a lasting impression and ensure your guests feel respected and informed.
Do: Send Invitations Early
Timing is everything when it comes to wedding invitations. Sending them out early—ideally 6-8 weeks before your wedding—gives your guests ample time to RSVP, make travel plans, and arrange accommodations if necessary. This ensures that everyone you want to invite has the chance to attend without any last-minute stress. Plus, sending invitations early shows that you’re organised and thoughtful, setting a relaxed tone leading up to your big day. Check out this link on the right time to send wedding invites.
Don’t: Forget to Include All Necessary Information
It may seem obvious, but forgetting crucial details can lead to confusion and frustration. Make sure your invitations include all the key information, such as the date, time, location, dress code (if any), and clear instructions on how to RSVP. Also, consider including parking or public transport details if your venue is tricky to find. Double-check everything before sending them out—no one wants to arrive at the wrong time or place!
Do: Personalise the Invitation
Wedding invitations are a reflection of you and your partner, so don’t shy away from personalising them. Whether you’re opting for a classic, elegant design or something more modern and quirky, ensure the invitations match your personalities and wedding theme. You could add a personal touch through custom wording, or perhaps include an illustration or photo that means something special to both of you. Personalisation makes your invites feel intimate and sets the stage for a memorable day.
Don’t: Be Too Casual (Unless It’s a Casual Wedding)
While weddings come in all shapes and sizes, it’s important to remember the tone of your invitation should reflect the formality of your event. If you’re having a traditional, black-tie wedding, avoid using overly casual language or designs—stick to something that conveys elegance and sophistication. That said, if you’re planning a laid-back, casual celebration, feel free to opt for a more relaxed style that suits the vibe of your day. Just be mindful of the balance between casual and too informal.
Do: Address Invitations Correctly
Addressing your invitations correctly is crucial. Not only does it show respect for your guests, but it also ensures they know exactly who is invited. Make sure to use formal titles when appropriate—e.g., Mr. and Mrs., Dr. and Mr., or Ms. and Mrs. If you’re addressing unmarried couples, use “Ms.” or “Mr.” rather than “Mrs.” to avoid any confusion. Additionally, if you’re inviting families, ensure everyone in the household is included, especially if children will be attending. It’s all about making sure no one feels left out or awkward about how they’re addressed.
Don’t: Overlook the Envelope Etiquette
Your wedding invitation envelope is just as important as the invite itself, as it’s the first thing your guests will see. Be sure to use formal titles, such as “Mr.” and “Mrs.”, or “Ms.” and “Mr.” for married and unmarried couples. When addressing envelopes, be specific—avoid simply writing “The Smiths” unless you intend to invite everyone in the household. For same-sex couples, it’s important to address them with the same respect and formality as you would any other couple. The key is to be thoughtful and respectful, taking care with each guest’s title and address.
Should You Let Guests Bring a Plus One to Your Wedding?
Choosing who to invite to your wedding is a big deal. In fact, it’s something that can cause arguments and stress. Something you always have to remember is that this is your special day. You shouldn’t feel obligated to invite people you don’t want to, even if you want everybody to be happy.
Something that couples often debate when they’re creating wedding invitations is whether they should allow their guests to bring a plus one to a wedding. This means that they can bring a partner or a friend. Let’s take a look at some elements you can consider to get your answer.
Your Budget
First of all, you need to think about your wedding budget. The more guests you have, the bigger the venue you need. It can also impact how much you’re spending on food and drinks. Therefore, if you have a big budget, this is when you won’t mind allowing plus ones. But, if you’re trying to restrict how much you’re spending on your wedding, you might want to consider avoiding this situation.
The Intimacy
There are some people who want to have a small and intimidating wedding. Perhaps you want it just to be close family and friends. Maybe you don’t like the attention and want to feel comfortable on your big day. Consider what you want to have on your wedding. The amount of intimacy can impact whether you allow guests to bring a plus one.
The Guests
Sometimes, you need to think about the guests. Weddings can be a long day and if you feel like some of your guests might feel uncomfortable on their own, this is when you can think about plus ones. Therefore, consider your guests and what’s going to make the day special for all of you.
Conclusion
Navigating wedding invitation etiquette may seem daunting, but following these simple do’s and don’ts can help you send out the perfect invitations for your big day. From ensuring all the details are included to addressing your guests with care, the key is to remain thoughtful and organised. Remember, while it’s important to follow proper etiquette, the most important thing is that your invitations reflect you and your partner’s unique style and personality.