Crowning Inspiration: Wedding Invitation Wording

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.

I love the creations from Alicia Foehl of Sophie a Design Boutique.

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!