The invitation can be one of the most difficult tasks a bride can do. So if you have already ordered yours, take a sigh of relief. But if its still on your to-do list, then this is for you.
The invitation sets the tone of the wedding. You don't have to break the bank on expensive letterpress or exquisite papers. But you don't want to go chipper-cheap (as I call it). Your paper shouldn't be anything less than 100lb. But my rule of thumb is 110lb at least. It should hold well in the hand, nice and firm. And if it doesn't, it will not hold up well in the mail and your guests will receive it with damaged edges or worse yet, creases.
The wording of your invitation is still very much rooted in etiquette. Its probably the most etiquette-binding formality left of the wedding.
Here are some proper ways to word your invite.
IF THE PARENTS ARE SPLITTING THE COST, VERSION 1
Mark and Mary McDonald & John and Judy Jones
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their children
Elizabeth Denise
and
George Michael ...
IF THE PARENTS ARE SPLITTING THE COST, VERSION 2
The families of
Elizabeth Denise McDonald
and
George Michael Jones
request honour of your presence ...
IF THE BRIDE AND GROOM ARE PAYING, VERSION 1
Elizabeth Denise McDonald
daughter of Mark and Mary McDonald
and
George Michael Jones
son of John and Judy Jones
request the honour of your presence ...
IF THE BRIDE AND GROOM ARE PAYING, VERSION 2
Elizabeth Denise McDonald
and
George Michael Jones
together with their families
request the honour of your presence ...
IF THE BRIDE’S PARENTS ARE PAYING
Mark and Mary McDonald
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Elizabeth Denise
to
George Michael Jones
son of John and Judy Jones ...
IF THE GROOM’S PARENTS ARE PAYING
John and Judy Jones
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their son
George Michael
to
Elizabeth Denise McDonald
daughter of Mark and Mary McDonald ...
IF THE BRIDE AND GROOM AND BOTH SETS OF PARENTS ARE SPLITTING THE COST
Together with their families
Elizabeth Denise McDonald
and
George Michael Jones
request the honour of your presence ...
These versions are taking into account that there are no divorces, deceased parents, etc. If that is the case, then a few more rules apply. Also notice that I spelled "honour" in the traditional old English, which is preferred for formal invitations.
For questions about your wedding invitations, feel free to email me!