The Foundations of Wedding Invitation Etiquette

Proper Timing

• Save-the-Dates: 6-8 months before
• Formal Invitations: 8-12 weeks prior
• Destination Weddings: 4-6 months ahead
• RSVP Deadlines: 3-4 weeks before the event

Names & Titles Traditional Etiquette:

• Use full names (no initials)
• Include middle names for formal invitations
• List hosts' names first
• Use proper titles (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.)

Example: "Mr. and Mrs. James William Anderson request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter Elizabeth Marie"

Hosting Etiquette

Traditional Host Lines:

1. Bride's Parents: "Mr. and Mrs. James William Anderson request the honour of your presence..."

2. Both Sets of Parents: "Mr. and Mrs. James William Anderson together with Mr. and Mrs. Robert Henry Wilson request the pleasure of your company..."

3. Couple Hosting: "Elizabeth Marie Anderson and Thomas James Wilson request the honour of your presence..."

Special Circumstances

Divorced Parents:

• List parents on separate lines
• Don't use "and" between names
• Consider order carefully

Example: "Mrs. Jane Marie Anderson Mr. James William Anderson request the pleasure of your company..."

Deceased Parent:

• Include with respect
• Use "the late" before name

Example: "Mrs. Jane Anderson and the late Mr. James Anderson request the honour of your presence..."

Essential Etiquette Do's:

1. Addressing

• Use full names
• Include proper titles
• Address couples properly
• Write out addresses completely

2. Timing

• Mail invitations early morning
• Allow extra time for international guests
• Include clear RSVP deadlines
• Send thank-you notes promptly

3. Information Hierarchy

• Host line
• Request line
• Couple's names
• Date and time
• Venue
• Reception details
• RSVP information

Critical Don'ts:

1. Never Include on Main Invitation:

• Registry information
• Children attendance policies
• Dress code 
• Social media details
• (use separate card)

2. Avoid:

• Abbreviations in formal invitations
• Casual language in formal events
• Mentioning gifts or money
• Using labels for addresses

Enclosure Cards Etiquette:

Reception Card: "Reception immediately following The Grand Hotel [Address]"

RSVP Card:

• Include clear deadline
• Pre-addressed envelope
• Space for names
• Meal choices if applicable

Additional Information Card:

• Accommodation details
• Transportation information
• Wedding website
• Dress code

Digital Etiquette for 2025:

While maintaining tradition:

• Wedding websites are acceptable
• QR codes on info cards only
• Digital RSVPs if indicated
• Online registry on website only

Final Etiquette Tips:

1. Proofing Protocol

• Multiple readers
• Check dates and times
• Verify spellings
• Review addresses

2. Proper Assembly

• Insert pieces correctly
• Face cards properly
• Use tissue when traditional
• Seal envelopes carefully

Expert Advice: Remember, while trends come and go, proper etiquette creates an atmosphere of respect and consideration for your guests.

Need Guidance? At Willow Spring Studio, we specialize in creating invitations that honor tradition while embracing your personal style. Let us help you navigate wedding invitation etiquette with grace and elegance.

 Browse our collection of traditional and contemporary invitations, each designed with proper etiquette in mind.