How To Word Your Wedding Invitations

Your wedding invitation is more than just the “what, when, and where” — it’s the first glimpse your guests get into your celebration. Whether you're going classic and formal or playful and personal, the wording sets the tone for the day. In this post, we’re diving into all the ways you can make your invitation wording feel just right — with tips, templates, and a little guidance to help you find the perfect voice for your big day.

As a wedding planner, I help my couples navigate this detail often, and I always say: the wording doesn't have to be stiff or complicated. It just needs to be clear, personal, and appropriate for your vibe.

Alexandria Marie Photography

Here’s a breakdown of how to get it just right—plus a few wording examples to inspire you.

The Basics: What to Include

At minimum, your invitation should include:

• Who is hosting

• The couple’s names

• The date and time

• The ceremony location

• Optional: Reception details or note that more info will follow

Classic & Formal Wording

Perfect for a traditional church wedding or black-tie affair:

Example:

Mr. and Mrs. William Anderson
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Charlotte Grace
to
James Alexander Bennett
Saturday, the tenth of May
Two thousand twenty-five
at half past four in the afternoon
St. Helena Catholic Church
Reception to follow

Modern Wording

Ideal for couples hosting themselves or planning a more casual or contemporary wedding:

Example:

Emma & Mason
joyfully invite you to their wedding
Saturday, September 6, 2025
at 5:00 PM
The Fig House | Los Angeles, California
Dinner, dancing & celebration to follow

Hosted by the Couple’s Families

Example:

Together with their families
Sophia Elena Ruiz
&
Daniel Carter Wells
invite you to celebrate their marriage
on Saturday, June 14, 2025
at 4:30 PM
Villa Loriana | San Luis Obispo, California
Reception immediately to follow

Destination or Weekend Wedding Note

If your wedding is part of a full weekend, or if there’s travel involved, it’s helpful to let guests know where to find more information:

Example:

Please join us for a wedding weekend in wine country
Amelia & Benjamin
are getting married!
October 18, 2025
at 4:00 PM
HammerSky Vineyards | Paso Robles, CA

Details & RSVP: ameliaandben.com

A Few Tips to Keep in Mind:

• Spell out everything for formal invitations (like "Saturday, the tenth of May" and “two thousand twenty-five”).

• Use numerals and abbreviations for more casual invites (like “May 10, 2025 at 4:30 PM”).

• Avoid including registry information on your main invitation—use your wedding website for that.

• If you’re unsure, keep it simple. Clarity > cleverness.

What’s Included in a Full Invitation Suite

A complete wedding invitation suite often includes several pieces, each with a clear purpose. You can mix and match based on your wedding style and how much information you need to share:

1. Main Invitation Card
   The formal invitation with names, date, time, and ceremony location.

2. Details or Info Card
   Include accommodation options, dress code, transportation, welcome events, or a note directing guests to your wedding website.

3. RSVP Card (with pre-addressed + stamped envelope)
   This is typically mailed back, though digital RSVPs are becoming more popular. Include a response deadline!

4. Reception Card (optional)
   Used when your ceremony and reception are at separate locations.

5. Outer Envelope
   The main envelope that holds the full suite. This is where guest names and addresses are written.

6. Inner Envelope (optional but traditional)
   Holds the actual invitation and RSVP items and includes the names of exactly who is invited (e.g., "Mr. and Mrs. Smith and Family").

7. Envelope Liner or Wax Seal (optional but beautiful!)
   Adds a layer of personalization and elegance.

Mailing Tips from Your Wedding Planner

You’ve invested time (and budget) into these beautiful invitations—here’s how to make sure they arrive safely and look their best:

1. Weigh Your Suite Before You Stamp
   Invitation suites often exceed a single stamp’s weight. Take a complete, stuffed suite to the post office and have it weighed to avoid returned mail.

2. Use Hand-Canceling When Possible
   This keeps your envelopes from going through harsh sorting machines and helps protect details like calligraphy or wax seals.

3. Double-Check Guest Addresses
   Use a shared spreadsheet to collect and confirm addresses. Double-check spelling and formal titles.

4. Mail 6–8 Weeks Before the Wedding (confirm dates that you need guest number guarantees provided by, such as catering and rentals)
   For destination weddings or guests traveling internationally, aim for 8–10 weeks. Save-the-dates go out even earlier (6–8 months prior).

5. Order Extras
   Always order at least 10–15 extra suites for last-minute guests, photography styling, or keepsakes.

There’s no one “right” way to word your wedding invitations—just the version that feels most authentic to your relationship and your event. Whether you're going formal, modern, poetic, or playful, the goal is to make your guests feel welcomed, informed, and excited to celebrate with you.

Need help finding wording that reflects your day perfectly? I’d love to help—this is one of those little details that brings the whole vision together.

Photo Details:

Invitation Suite: Crane and Clover Co.