Crafting the Perfect Wedding Invitation: Bride's Parents as Hosts
The wedding invitation is the first glimpse into your special day that your guests will experience. When the bride's parents are hosting the wedding, the invitation wording takes on a traditional yet elegant tone. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the intricacies of wedding invitation wording when the bride's parents are the hosts.
Understanding the Traditional Hierarchy
Traditionally, the bride's parents host the wedding and bear the majority of the costs. Therefore, it's customary for the invitation to be issued in their names. However, modern weddings often involve a blend of traditions, and the hosting roles may vary. Regardless, the invitation wording should reflect the hosts clearly and politely.
Who Should Be Listed on the Invitation?
- Bride's Parents: As the hosts, the bride's parents should be listed first. Their full names are typically used, followed by a phrase indicating their role, such as "request the pleasure of your company."
- Groom's Parents: If the groom's parents are contributing financially or hosting a portion of the event, it's polite to include them. They are usually listed after the bride's parents, with a phrase like "and with their parents" or "together with their parents."
- The Couple: The couple's names are listed last, with the bride's name coming first, followed by the groom's. Their names are typically followed by a phrase like "request the honor of your presence" or "invite you to join them."
Sample Wedding Invitation Wording: Bride's Parents Hosting
Here are a few examples of wedding invitation wording when the bride's parents are hosting:
| Wording | Example |
|---|---|
| Formal and Traditional | Mr. and Mrs. John Doe request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter Jane Elizabeth to Mr. Jonathan Smith |
| Semi-Formal | Together with their parents, Jane Elizabeth and Jonathan Smith request the honor of your presence at their wedding ceremony |
| Casual and Modern | You're invited to the wedding of Jane Elizabeth and Jonathan Smith Hosted by Jane's parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Doe |
Addressing the Invitation
When addressing the invitation envelope, use the full names of the guests and their titles (Mr., Ms., Dr., etc.). If you're unsure about a guest's title or marital status, it's best to address them as "Mister" or "Miss" and use their full name.
Including Reception Details
If the bride's parents are also hosting the reception, you can include the reception details on the invitation. This is typically done on a separate card or in a smaller font below the ceremony details. For example:
Reception to follow at
The Grand Ballroom
7:00 PM
When to Send the Invitations
The general rule is to send wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding date. However, if you're having a destination wedding or a wedding during peak wedding season, it's a good idea to send them out earlier to ensure your guests can make arrangements.
Crafting the perfect wedding invitation is a reflection of your personal style and a sneak peek into the celebration to come. When the bride's parents are hosting, the invitation wording should elegantly reflect their role and set the tone for your special day.
