This entry is from our Expert Guest series where wedding and honeymoon professionals share their best tips on creating memories that last a lifetime.
One of the most popular topics we, as an invitation company, are asked when it comes to the ever-important wedding invitations is HOW to word it. Why, you ask? Simply put, there are a lot of factors to be considered. Are you hosting a formal or casual wedding? Who is paying for your big day? Are there religious or cultural traditions or expectations?
Family dynamics can be the biggest issue and are known to cause enormous amounts of unnecessary stress. If this sounds all too familiar, have no fear! There is usually a simple way to word your invitation that can make everyone happy, especially you.
Proper Wedding Invitation Wording For Modern Weddings
To help you navigate through the sea of the who and how of wording your wedding card, we’ve provided you with the answer to some of our most common questions.
Divorced Parents
My parents are divorced and are sharing the cost of the wedding. How do I include their names, along with those of my fiance while avoiding hurt feelings or drama?
Unfortunately, this is a more common question than any of us would like. However, there are two ways you can go about wording your invitation to avoid conflict and make all those involved happy. If your parents are hosting, we’d recommend the following:
(bride’s father’s name) and (bride’s mother’s name)
together with
(groom’s parent’s names)
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their children
(bride’s name)
and
(groom’s name)
For a slightly more modern and casual option, you can leave their names out all together and go with something like this:
Together with our parents
(bride’s name)
and
(groom’s name)
request the honor of your presence
at our marriage¦
Same-Sex Wedding
My partner and I are getting married, but I know some of our family is against the idea of same-sex marriage. How do I word my invitation to family members who are not supportive of our wedding plans?
As much as you want everyone you love to share in the joy of important moments like your wedding day, the last thing you want is people to be there that don’t support you or your fiance’s pending nuptials. For this reason, we recommend the following:
You are invited to join in support and celebration
at the marriage of
(your name)
and
(your fiancé’s name)
It’s a kind but clear way of saying that only those who wish to support and enjoy your fabulous wedding need attend.
Deceased Parents
My fiancé and I are paying for the entire wedding. How do I write that both my parents have passed away and my fiancé’s mom has remarried? Both of his parents are living
If you and your husband-to-be are hosting, we’d recommend the following:
(brides name)
daughter of the late (bride’s parents names)
and
(groom’s name)
son of (grooms parents names)
request the honor of your presence¦
The order of your fiance’s parent’s names would traditionally be the father’s name (and step-mother when applicable) first, and mother and stepfather second. Discussing order of names with the parties involved is always recommended.
As stressful as wording your wedding invitation may seem, keep in mind WHY you are sending out an invitation in the first place. You’re getting married! This is supposed to be one of the happiest events in your life thus far, so don’t let other people’s opinions tarnish it. Happy planning!
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Bio: Invitations by Ajalon has been providing couples across the globe with custom digital, letterpress and foil invitations for nearly a decade. Specializing in Indian and bilingual invitations, this small, family-run company is known for its personal service and high quality printing. To view some of their stunning invitation motifs, or to get a quote, head over to www.invitationsbyajalon.com!
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