Crafting Perfect Wedding Invitations: What to Say and How to Say It
Your wedding invitation is the first glimpse into your special day that your guests will experience. It sets the tone for your celebration and provides essential information about the event. But with so much to include, what should you say on your wedding invitation? Let's dive into the key elements to include and how to phrase them for a perfect, personalized invitation.
Understanding the Basics: The Anatomy of a Wedding Invitation
Before we delve into what to say, let's understand the basic structure of a wedding invitation. Typically, it includes the following elements:
- Host line
- Request line
- Date, time, and location
- Reception details (if different from ceremony)
- RSVP information
- Accommodation details (optional)
Who Should Host the Wedding Invitation?
Traditionally, the parents of the couple host the wedding. However, modern weddings often see a mix of hosts or even the couple hosting themselves. Here's how you can phrase the host line accordingly:
- Traditional: Mr. and Mrs. John Doe request the pleasure of your company...
- Modern: Together with their families, John Doe and Jane Smith request the pleasure of your company...
- Couple hosting: John Doe and Jane Smith are delighted to invite you to share in their joy...
The Request Line: Setting the Tone
The request line is where you invite your guests to your wedding. It's a chance to set the tone for your celebration. Here are a few examples:
- Formal: request the honour of your presence...
- Semi-formal: cordially invite you to celebrate with them...
- Casual: would be thrilled for you to join them...
Date, Time, and Location: The Logistics
Be clear and concise when stating the date, time, and location of your wedding. Include the full date (day of the week, month, and day), the time (both start and end times if applicable), and the venue's name and address.
Example: Saturday, the fifth of June, two thousand twenty-three, at half past five in the evening
Reception Details: Separate Events
If your reception is held at a different location or time, include these details on a separate line. Make sure to specify if it's a different location or if there's a time gap between the ceremony and reception.
Example: A reception will follow at The Grand Ballroom, 123 Main Street, from seven o'clock in the evening
RSVP and Accommodation Details: Practical Information
Include your RSVP information clearly, specifying the date by which guests should respond. You can also include accommodation details if you've reserved a block of rooms for your guests.
Example: RSVP by the twentieth of May, two thousand twenty-three. Accommodation has been reserved at The Grand Hotel under 'Doe-Wedding'.
Personal Touches: Making Your Invitation Unique
Don't be afraid to add personal touches to your invitation. This could be a unique phrase, a special request, or even a small illustration that reflects your personalities or the theme of your wedding.
Example: In lieu of gifts, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to our favourite charity, The XYZ Foundation.
Proofreading and Final Touches
Before sending out your invitations, make sure to proofread them carefully for any spelling or grammar mistakes. Also, consider the overall design and aesthetics of your invitation to ensure it reflects your wedding's style and theme.
