What To Include In A Formal Wedding Invitation? Your Ultimate Guide

When it comes to weddings, invitations are an essential element that sets the tone for the event. The formal wedding invitation is an opportunity to not only inform your guests of the date, time and location but also to convey the style and theme of your special day. However, with so many details to consider, it can be overwhelming to know what to include.

That’s where we come in. In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through the must-have information for your formal wedding invitation, including wording, enclosures, dress code, and RSVP information. Whether you’re planning an elegant black-tie affair or a classic ceremony, we’ve got you covered.

So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of formal wedding invitations. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to create the perfect invitation for your big day.

Basic Information To Include

A formal wedding invitation sets the tone for your big day, so it’s essential to get it right. Here are the basic details you need to include:

Date and Time: This is the most important piece of information to include on your wedding invitation. Make sure you specify the date, month, year, and start time of the ceremony.

Venue: Clearly mention the name and location of the venue where the wedding ceremony and reception will take place. This includes the full address, including the city and state, for out-of-town guests.

Couple’s Names: Don’t forget to include your names, along with your parents’ names if you’re following traditional wedding etiquette. You can also include your wedding website, email address, or phone number for any questions guests may have.

Now that you know the essential details to include, let’s dive deeper into wording and language for a formal wedding invitation.

Names of the Couple

1. The full names of the couple should be included on the wedding invitation. Traditionally, the bride’s name appears first, followed by the groom’s name.

2. If the couple shares the same last name, you can use their full names, such as “Emily and Michael Smith.” If the couple has different last names, use their full names and list them alphabetically.

3. For same-sex couples, you can list the names alphabetically or in the order that sounds best.

4. If the parents are hosting the wedding, you may include their names on the invitation, followed by the couple’s names.

It’s important to make sure the names are spelled correctly and any preferred titles, such as “Dr.” or “Rev.” are included. You want to make sure the couple feels valued and respected, and getting their names right is a crucial part of that.

Wording And Language

When it comes to formal wedding invitations, it’s important to use proper wording and language to convey the elegance and formality of the event. The invitation should be written in the third person, using formal language and proper grammar. Avoid using contractions and slang words.

The wording should include important details such as the date and time of the wedding, the location and address of the ceremony and reception, and the names of the couple and their parents. Additionally, the invitation should specify the dress code and any other important information guests should know.

It’s important to remember that formal wedding invitations are typically sent on behalf of the parents of the couple. Therefore, it’s customary to use the parents’ titles and last names in the invitation. For example, “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the pleasure of your company…”

Formal Language

Formal language is an important aspect of wedding invitation wording. The tone of the invitation should reflect the formality of the event, so choose your words carefully. Use formal titles, such as Mr. and Mrs. for married couples and Ms. for unmarried women. Avoid using contractions and use full sentences instead.

Spell out all words, including the date, time, and address. Use “the” before the date and include the year. For example, “the twentieth of June, two thousand and twenty-two.” Also, avoid abbreviations and use formal titles for names and titles. For example, use “Doctor” instead of “Dr.”

Use honorifics to show respect to your guests. Use “honorable” for guests who hold official positions, such as judges and politicians. Use “reverend” for religious leaders. Use “esquire” for lawyers, and use “Ph.D.” for those who hold a doctorate degree. Always double-check the spelling and titles to ensure accuracy.

Additional Enclosures

Reception Card: If your reception is in a different location than your ceremony, you may want to include a reception card. It should provide the address and start time of the reception.

Response Card: A response card is included to help guests RSVP. It should have space for the guest’s name, whether or not they are attending, and any dietary restrictions.

Directions Card: A directions card is helpful if the location is difficult to find. It should provide a map and written directions to the ceremony and reception locations.

Accommodation Card: If you have out-of-town guests, you may want to include an accommodation card. It should provide information about local hotels, including their phone numbers and websites.

Gift Registry Card: While it is not necessary to include a gift registry card, many couples do. If you choose to do so, it should provide information about where you are registered.

Direction Card

For guests who are unfamiliar with the wedding location, including a direction card in your formal invitation is a great idea. Make sure to include the full address of the venue, as well as any important landmarks or nearby buildings that can help guests find their way. Bold or underline the most important details for clarity.

If you have reserved a special parking area or shuttle service for your guests, make sure to include those details as well. This will help ensure that all guests arrive on time and without confusion.

Direction cards can be printed on a separate card and inserted into the invitation envelope, or they can be printed on the back of the invitation itself. Choose an option that best fits the style and design of your invitation suite.

Remember, the goal is to provide your guests with all the information they need to arrive at your wedding without any trouble. With a direction card, you can help make sure everyone is able to find their way to your celebration.

Tip: If you’re having a destination wedding, include additional travel information, such as local airports, recommended hotels, and transportation options for getting to and from the venue.

Accommodation Card

If you have out-of-town guests attending your wedding, it’s a good idea to include an accommodation card in your formal wedding invitation. This card will provide information about local hotels and accommodations, so your guests know where to stay. Here are some things to include:

• Hotel Information: Provide the names, addresses, and phone numbers of nearby hotels that have reserved a block of rooms for your guests.
• Room Rates: Include the special rates you have negotiated for your guests, and be sure to provide instructions on how to book these rooms.
• Transportation: If you are providing transportation to and from the wedding venue, provide details about pickup and drop-off times.
• Other Activities: If you have any planned events or activities for your guests, such as a rehearsal dinner or brunch, be sure to include details about these as well.

By including an accommodation card in your invitation, you’re making it easier for your out-of-town guests to attend your wedding and enjoy their stay. It’s a thoughtful gesture that will be appreciated by your guests.

Reception Card

If your wedding ceremony and reception are held at separate venues, it’s important to include a reception card with your formal wedding invitation. This will provide your guests with all the necessary details regarding the reception, such as the location, time, and dress code. Here are some things to keep in mind when creating a reception card:

Venue Details: Include the name and address of the venue where the reception will be held. If possible, include a map or directions to help guests find their way.

Reception Time: Provide the start and end time of the reception, so guests know when to arrive and when to expect the celebration to end.

Dress Code: If you have a specific dress code for the reception, such as black-tie or cocktail attire, be sure to include it on the reception card.

RSVP Information: If you need guests to RSVP separately for the reception, include the necessary contact information, such as a phone number or email address, on the card.

Remember, the reception card should be included in the envelope with your formal wedding invitation and other additional enclosures. By providing your guests with all the necessary details, you can ensure that everyone is informed and ready to celebrate with you on your special day.

Dress Code Details

The dress code for our wedding is formal attire. This means that tuxedos, suits, and formal dresses are appropriate. We kindly request that guests refrain from wearing casual or beachwear clothing to maintain the elegant ambiance of the occasion.

Black tie optional dress code is also acceptable for the wedding. Men may choose to wear a tuxedo or a dark suit with a tie. Women may choose a long formal dress or a dressy cocktail dress.

We understand that the dress code can be confusing. If you are unsure of what to wear, please feel free to contact us for guidance. We would be happy to help you dress appropriately for our special day.

We also kindly request that guests avoid wearing white to the wedding, as this is traditionally reserved for the bride.

Black Tie Attire

• Gentlemen: A black tuxedo, formal white shirt, black bow tie, black dress shoes, and optional cummerbund or vest.

• Ladies: A long evening gown, dressy cocktail dress or formal separates, paired with elegant jewelry, evening bag and heels. Hair can be styled in an up-do or left loose.

• Accessories: A black or silver clutch, evening gloves, and a shawl or stole are optional for both men and women.

The Black Tie Attire dress code is a formal and elegant dress code, often reserved for evening events. This means that guests should dress in their best formal wear. Men are required to wear a black tuxedo and women are required to wear a long evening gown, dressy cocktail dress or formal separates. Jewelry, evening bags, and heels should also be chosen accordingly.

If you’re unsure about what to wear, remember that it’s always better to dress more formally than not. It’s better to be overdressed than underdressed at a formal event, and it shows respect for the couple’s wishes and the occasion. If you have any questions about the dress code, don’t hesitate to ask the couple or wedding planner for guidance.

RSVP Information

Please let us know if you will be able to attend our wedding by June 30th, 2023.

Kindly RSVP by filling out the enclosed response card and mailing it back to us using the pre-addressed envelope provided. You may also RSVP via email to [email protected].

If you have any special dietary requirements or other requests, please let us know by filling out the appropriate section on the response card or by sending us an email at [email protected].

RSVP Deadline

Respond as soon as possible to secure your seat at the wedding reception. We kindly request a response no later than the RSVP deadline of June 15, 2023, to ensure we have an accurate guest count. Your response can be submitted by mail or online via the RSVP link provided in your invitation. Please indicate any dietary restrictions or special requests at this time.

If you are unable to attend, we appreciate a response to decline the invitation. This allows us to extend the invitation to another guest and adjust the seating chart accordingly.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the RSVP process, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to celebrating this special day with you!

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the wedding or your RSVP, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our contact information is provided below:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (555) 123-4567
• Mailing Address: 123 Main Street, Anytown USA 12345
• Social Media: You can also connect with us on social media for updates and news about the wedding! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

We look forward to hearing from you and celebrating with you on our special day!

Frequently Asked Questions