Send your wedding invitations at least six to eight weeks before your wedding day. If you’re having a destination wedding or inviting many out-of-town guests, send them even earlier to allow for travel and accommodation arrangements.

Do Include Essential Information

 

• • Your wedding invitations should clearly include the following details:

• • The names of the hosts (traditionally the bride’s parents, but it can also be the couple or others).

• • The names of the couple getting married.

• • The date and time of the wedding.

• • The venue or venues (both the ceremony and reception locations).

• • Dress code, if applicable.

• • RSVP details, including a response deadline and method (email, website, or mail).

• • Any additional event information, such as a rehearsal dinner or brunch.

Do Use Proper Titles and Names – Use formal titles and full names, such as “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith,” rather than nicknames or abbreviations. When addressing the envelopes, use appropriate titles, such as “Mr.,” “Mrs.,” “Dr.,” or “Judge.”

Do Proofread Your Invitations – Ensure that your wedding invitations are free of errors. Proofread all names, dates, and details to avoid embarrassing mistakes. It’s often helpful to have a trusted friend or family member review the invitations as well.

Do Include RSVP Cards – Make it easy for your guests to respond by including pre-addressed RSVP cards. These cards should have a clear deadline for responses, allowing you to plan effectively.

Do Be Mindful of Plus-Ones – If you are not extending a plus-one invitation to single guests, make it clear by addressing the invitation only to the guest you intend to invite. If you are allowing plus-ones, address the envelope to the primary guest with “and guest.”

Do Consider Cultural and Religious Traditions – If your wedding involves specific cultural or religious traditions, consider incorporating them into the invitation design or wording. It adds a personal touch and honors your heritage.

Do Respect Dress Codes – If your wedding has a specific dress code, communicate it clearly on the invitation. Terms like “black tie,” “semi-formal,” or “beach casual” provide guests with guidance on appropriate attire.

Do Personalize Your Invitations – Add a personal touch to your invitations that reflects your unique love story. Whether it’s a custom monogram, an engagement photo, or a special quote, personalization makes the invitation more meaningful.

The Don’ts of Wedding Invitation Etiquette

 

• • Don’t Include Registry Information – It is considered inappropriate to include registry details on your wedding invitations. Share this information through your wedding website or by word of mouth when asked.

• • Don’t Use Abbreviations – Avoid using abbreviations or acronyms on your wedding invitations. Spell out all names, locations, and words for a more formal and elegant appearance.

• • Don’t Send Electronic Invitations for Formal Weddings – While digital invitations are convenient for many occasions, they may not be suitable for formal weddings. Traditional paper invitations are more appropriate for formal events.

• • Don’t Assume Plus-Ones – Never assume that a guest will bring a plus-one unless it’s explicitly mentioned on their invitation. Clearly address the invitation to the intended guest to avoid confusion.

• • Don’t Invite Guests to Multiple Events on a Single Card – Avoid sending a single invitation card that combines multiple events (e.g., ceremony and reception) with separate start times and locations. Each event should have its own invitation.

• • Don’t Overcomplicate the Design – While personalization is encouraged, avoid overcomplicating the design. A cluttered or overly complex invitation can be confusing and less visually appealing.

• • Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute – Don’t procrastinate when it comes to sending your wedding invitations. Give your guests ample time to plan and RSVP by sending invitations at least six to eight weeks in advance.

• • Don’t Assume Everyone Will RSVP -While it’s courteous for guests to RSVP, not everyone may do so. Be prepared for some guests to overlook this, and follow up with them as needed.

• • Don’t Forget to Proofread Envelopes – Just as you proofread the invitation itself, ensure that the envelopes are addressed correctly. This includes using proper titles, full names, and accurate addresses.

Your wedding invitations are a key element in the journey towards your special day. By following the dos and don’ts of wedding invitation etiquette, you can create invitations that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also respectful and informative. Remember that wedding invitations are an opportunity to convey your love story and set the tone for your celebration, so they deserve the care and attention you give to other wedding preparations.