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A Simple Guide to Wedding Invitation Etiquette
26 August 2011
Writing your wedding invitations may seem like an uncomplicated task; you simply tell your guests where to be at what time and to RSVP by a certain date — right? If only it were that easy! There are quite a few unspoken rules when it comes to wedding invitation etiquette that every bride and groom should still follow — even if you are opting for a non-traditional wedding. So before you stamp those envelopes and send your invitations on their way, check our list below and make sure you haven’t committed any crimes against the laws of etiquette.
Should I send save the date cards?
Unless you are planning a destination wedding or you are expecting a lot of international guests, save the date cards aren’t really necessary. However, if you are choosing to send them, they should be sent ideally five to six months prior to the wedding to allow your guests time to organise flights and accommodation.
Your stationery styling
Don’t treat the styling of your invitations too lightly; remember this will be the first glimpse your guests will get of the style of your wedding. Make sure your stationery reflects the theme of your day and your guests will use it as a guide of what’s to come. And never email your wedding invitation!
Appropriate wedding invitation wording
Your wedding invitation should acknowledge the names of the wedding hosts, the names of the bride and groom, details of the date of the wedding, including the day of the week, date, time, address of the ceremony, and reception and RSVP information. It is not expected to include any inserts, but you may wish to include a RSVP return slip or a map showing the location of the ceremony and reception, if required. It is also recommended to include a dress code on your invitation outlining if the event is formal or smart casual — it will save your guests having to ask you the question.
Who should it be addressed to?
If your wedding is going to be a formal affair, you may wish to address the invitations using the appropriate social titles such as Mr, Mrs or Dr. Otherwise, your guest’s first name spelt out in full is fine, but definitely no nicknames. Guest names should be written out in full (including first name and surname) on the envelopes and only one invitation per family or couple is required.
Forbidden: Handwritten guest names
It is bad taste to hand-write your guests’ names onto your invitations (unless of course you have hired a professional calligrapher). Your wedding guest list should be provided to your stationery supplier and guest names should be included in the printing. When you are compiling your guest list, make sure you double check the spelling of any names you are unsure of and triple check for any other errors. Printed address labels stuck on envelopes are also not appropriate, however address details can be printed directly onto the envelope using a similar font to your wedding invitation. Alternatively, the addresses can be handwritten if your writing is immaculate. Otherwise, you may wish to resort to that calligrapher again.
When to send them
Your invitations should be sent at least eight weeks prior to your wedding. This allows plenty of time for your guests to RSVP and make any necessary arrangements so they don’t miss your big day — such as booking flights or baby sitters. It also allows plenty of time for you to monitor you responses and confirm the final head count with your venue.
What’s the best way to chase responses?
If you managed to have your invitation sent out eight weeks prior to your wedding, your RSVP date should be no later than two weeks prior to your day. If after this date you still have several people who have not responded, you are welcome to call them and enquire if they will be attending.
As soon as you have set a date for your big day, start thinking about your wedding invitations. Once you have an idea on style, research suppliers and ask for quotes. You may also like to pay for a few test prints to ensure the quality of printing is perfect. Your wedding invitation will be a keepsake you will hold onto for many years, so treat it with the love and care it deserves.
Images courtesy of Over the Rainbow Invites
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