Every girl dreams about her perfect wedding since a very young age. However, when the times comes, it is super easy to get overwhelmed with all the things that you are supposed to do to get ready. Of course, the reception, the gown, the ceremony – all those things matter greatly. Nevertheless, there are smaller elements that make the whole picture complete. What we have in mind are the wedding invitations. Every often, invitations are perceived just like those pieces of paper that let other people know that there is a wedding to attend. We think that there is much more to them than it is believed. After all, the invitations are that first thing that lets the guests get a glimpse of the theme, and you wouldn’t believe how essential that is.

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Not to keep you waiting, we are going to spill the beans – we will teach you everything you should know on the subject in this review. You should better get ready to absorb some useful information!

What Should Your Wedding Invitations Say?

It all seems so simple when it is not your wedding we are talking about, isn’t it? However, when you sit down and decide to fill out your invitations the simple question pops up in your head – what should you write? Well, stick up to the guide, and you won’t miss a thing!

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What To Write On Wedding Invitations

Although it seems simple, when it comes to putting pen to paper, you may find that you’re second-guessing yourself. It’s only a few lines, but there’s tons of information in each word. Don’t worry, the following steps break down the order and significance of everything you have to write.

  • The hosting. Usually, these are the parents who host the wedding, so that stating their names in the invitation is a must. You should start with the father’s name and then add the mother’s. If both of your parents host the big occasion – write all the names. In case you are the host, just include your names.
  • A Specific request to attend the wedding. There are many ways to start the invitation line. However, you need to remember that it is the formal occasion, and you should state with the first phrase how important is the guest to you.
  • The names. Unlike with the hosting, when it comes to the bride’s and the groom’s name – the bride goes first.
  • The date. Of course, the time and the date of the event matter greatly too. That is why it is best to write the date using full words instead of numbers. With time, you can still use the digits.
  • Location. Do not forget to state where your wedding is going to take place, include both the ceremony as well as reception address.
  • Dress Code. If there is any specific theme for your wedding, you should point it out clearly too, so that all the guests are dressed properly.

What You Should Remember: Invitation Wording Etiquette

These days many couples decide to be super creative about their weddings so that it is always one of a kind. However, there is a bunch of things that you should better stick to the tradition in. For instance, the invitation etiquette. Whether you're planning a classic and elegant white wedding ceremony or want a sunny beach wedding, there are some musts to include in your invitations. Your invitations should:

  • Include the bride’s name stated before the groom’s
  • Do not leave the essentials out: the date, the time, the place, the dress code
  • Separate card for the RSVP is a must
  • State the date and time clearly to avoid any confusion
  • If there is an RSVP card, do not forget about the return address, even an email one

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Traditional Wedding Invitation Wording

 
Traditional Wedding Invitation Wording
Credit photo: Instagram.com/elegantweddinginvites

We are going, to begin with, the presentation of three examples of traditional wedding invitations that will fit into any family situation. Here we go:

Divorced and step-parents hosting the wedding

Mary Smith (the mother) Mr. and Mrs. Johnson (father and stepmother)

request the pleasure of your company at the solemnization in holy matrimony of their daughter Julia and Joseph Bennett son of Mother’s and Step-Father’s Name Father’s Name

Sunday, the eleventh of December two thousand nineteen

at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California

Light reception follows.

The color of the day: Blue

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Single mother hosting the wedding

Mary Smith (the mother)

invites you to partake in the celebration of the marriage of her daughter Julia to Joseph Bennett

Sunday, the eleventh of December two thousand nineteen

at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California

Dinner and dancing follow

Theme: A touch of rose gold.

The couple themselves hosting the wedding

Together with their friends, families and two cats and a dog

Julia and Joseph Bennett

Request the honor of your presence as they Tie the knot

Sunday, the eleventh of December two thousand nineteen

at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California

It is a bow tie affair.

Formal Wedding Invitation Wording

 
Formal Wedding Invitation Wording
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

In times when a traditional way is not what you are searching for then formal wedding invitations come in more than handy. However, this time, we are going to center attention around groom’s parents so that there is no discrimination here. To tell you the truth, both types are quite similar, but there are differences to be aware of too.

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Groom’s parents hosting the wedding

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bennett request the honor of your presence at the marriage of Ms. Julia to their son Mr. Joseph Bennett on Sunday, the eleventh of December two thousand nineteen at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Both parents hosting the wedding

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Bennett and Eddard and Mrs. Smith request the honor of your presence at the marriage of Julia to Joseph Bennett on Sunday, the eleventh of December, two thousand nineteen at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Bride’s parents hosting the wedding including the groom’s parents

Mr. and Mrs. Eddard Smith request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Julia to Mr. Joseph Bennett, son of Paul and Mrs. Bennett

Sunday, the eleventh of December, two thousand nineteen at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

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Informal Wedding Invitation Wording

Informal Wedding Invitation Wording #weddingplan
Credit photo: Instagram.com/polkadotpaper

If you still prefer to come up with unique wedding invitations, then we have a list of informal invitations wording examples you can consider.

Bride’s parents hosting the wedding

Please share in our joy at the marriage of our daughter Julia Smith to Joseph Bennett

December 11, 2019, at two o’clock.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Dinner and dancing to follow

The couple hosting the wedding

You are invited to the marriage of Julia Smith and Joseph Bennett.

We hope you will join us in celebrating our union Sunday, the eleventh of December, two thousand nineteen at two-thirty in the afternoon.

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Reception to follow immediately.

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Groom’s parents hosting the wedding

We will be delectating with your presence at the marriage of Julia and our son Joseph

Sunday, December 11, 2019, at two-thirty

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

A reception will follow the ceremony at the same venue.

Modern Wedding Invitation Wording

Modern Wedding Invitation Wording #modernwedding
Credit photo: Instagram.com/purplewagondesigns

You may be wondering what is the difference between all the mentioned above invitations and modern wedding invitations ideas. The main difference lies in the fact that in this type of invitations, the parents are not in the main focus. At times, the parents are not mentioned at all.

Example of modern combined with traditional invitations

Mr. & Mrs. Eddard Smith cordially invite you to attend the wedding ceremony of their daughter Julia Smith to Joseph Bennett, son of Mr. & Mrs. Bennett

Sunday, the 11th of December 2019.

Ceremony to commence at 11 am

Church of God In Christ

Los Angeles, California

Followed by a formal celebration at 3 pm

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California

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Example of a creative invitation

JULIA & JOSePH ArE TyInG ThE KnOt!!!

Sunday The 11th Of December 2019

CEREMONY/RECEPTION NAME

At 2:00 PM

PrOVidEnCe

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California

Example of a detailed modern invitation

We request the pleasure of your company

as we celebrate the marriage of

Julia & Joseph

Sunday the eleventh of December 2019

At 11:00 AM

The wedding ceremony takes place

At

Church of God In Christ

Los Angeles, California

And reception begins by 2:00 PM at providence

Los Angeles, California

Dress: Tux affair

Creative Invitation Wording

Creative Invitation Wording #creativewedding
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

Are you an artistic couple, and creativity matters to you above all? There is no problem with that, not at all. Everything that you should keep is the important information that concerns your wedding, the rest is totally up to you. You can use poems, humor, and witty remarks in your invitation and all the rest you see fit. We are going to present a few examples for you to see where we are headed.

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Poetic invitation wording with parents included

We value your endless support, eternal love and friendship. Our parents and we invite you to spend the most important day of our lives together. Be the witness to our vows and the guest to our wedding celebration!

Julia and Joseph

Sunday, December 11th, 2 o’clock

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Festive brunch, drinks, and dance will follow.

Poetic invitation for a blended family

Something old, something new, the Time and Love forever intertwined in our vows, we ask you to witness the union and celebrate our marriage with us today.

Kindly join Joseph& Julia together with their adorable kids, Emily and Kate, as they start the journey together with a blended family, united under the laws of men and heaven.

Sunday, 11th December 2019

At 2:00 PM

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Humorous casual invitation example

You are gladly invited to the wedding of Julia & Joseph Sunday, the eleventh of December two thousand and nineteen at two in the afternoon

Providence

5955 Melrose Ave

Los Angeles, California.

Dinner, drinks, and exciting dancing will follow after the ceremony

Please respond to the RSVP card inside within two weeks.

You can get a little experimental with some humorous note added after the main information is added.

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Beach Wedding Invitation Wording

Beach Wedding Invitation Wording
Credit photo: Instagram.com/mamaincstudio

A beach wedding is often considered the most romantic Big Day variant, so your wedding invitation should exceed most expectations. After you’ve come up with a unique design, pay attention to the wording:

We’re happy to invite you to our romantic beach ceremony. We’d be glad to have you there as we exchange our vows and start a lifetime as one.

September 9th, 2023, at 3 p.m.

RedBay Resort, 3462 Ocean Drive, Sacramento, California

Don’t forget to bring sandals and flats. We’ll dance to celebrate till the dawn breaks.

Do wedding invites have to be handwritten?

How do you say no plus one politely?

Destination Wedding Invitation Wording

Destination Wedding Invitation Wording
Credit photo: Instagram.com/elegantweddinginvites

No matter where you go, you want your friends and family to be there for you as you decide to share a single lifepath for two.

We’re ready to say ‘I do’ on August 5th, 2023, at 4 p.m.

Plaza Resort, Roseland Drive, the Island of Bali.

Bring your dressy outfit along with a swimsuit and flops. A weekend of immense fun on the tropical beach is to follow, and so is the reception.

Rustic Wedding Invitation Wording

Rustic Wedding Invitation Wording
Credit photo: Instagram.com/elegantweddinginvites

Our love story continues, and we’ve arrived at the Wedding milestone. Thus, we hope you can join us on July 30th, 2023, at 4 p.m. The Rustic Farm, 8964 Barn Road, Detroit, Michigan.

A rustic dress code is required, and the reception is to follow.

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Wedding Invitation Ideas By Seasons

There’s barely anything that can’t be used as a wedding invitation inspo. However, whenever your creativity seems to stall, use your wedding season as a starting point.

Winter Wedding Invitations

Winter Wedding Invitations
Credit photo: Instagram.com/elegantweddinginvites

While we associate winter with cold winds and blizzards, there are also holidays, skating, and snowflakes to enjoy. In your invitation card, capture frosty shades, sparkles, and snowflakes to spread the joyful vibe. Use thick cardstock with lots of metallic embellishments to emphasize the fragile elegance of the invitation.

Spring Wedding Invitations

Spring Wedding Invitations
Credit photo: Instagram.com/elegantweddinginvites

Spring is the season of new experiences and fresh beginnings. Set aside heavy coloring and focus on pastel tones and floral designs. Play around with lighter paper and unique fonts. Name stamps will introduce a whimsical flair to the invitation too.

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Summer Wedding Invitations

Summer Wedding Invitations
Credit photo: Instagram.com/mamaincstudio

Summer is bright and fun, so use it to your benefit. Create vibrant invitations with tropical themes, beach vibes, and sun. Go for a lighter paper type to intensify the effortlessness of the season.

Fall Wedding Invitations

Fall Wedding Invitations
Credit photo: Instagram.com/mamaincstudio

Fall is more than Thanksgiving and Halloween. It is the season of warmth, earthy tones, and mind-blowing aromas. Your fall wedding invitations should reflect all of those at once. You can choose rich paper with rustic textures, deep colors, and foliage. Don’t be afraid to get a little over the edge with intricate scripts and fonts to accentuate the intricacy and elegance of the season.

How To Make Your Wedding Invites Really Memorable?

Now, when we discussed all the main ways of filling the invitations out, you need to consider not less essential thing which is the design. You need to make sure that your invitations, not just a generic one but the one to be kept and remembered.

You need to pay attention to the details, trust us – they do matter. Any little hint will add that personal touch that every couple craves for, and we are going to head you in the right direction.

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Create Your Own Personalized Stamp

If you are all in for rustic wedding invitations, then a personal stamp is a must. Using such a stamp to seal your invitation letter will add that peculiar ancient vibe that will take the receivers straight to another epoch. Besides, such stamps are easy to afford as well as to make.

Use Ribbon For Decoration

 
Use Ribbon For Decoration
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

In case you are in search of elegant wedding invitations ideas, we may have one in store for you. The fact is that you can customize each invitation with a ribbon. You can choose the same ribbon for all, or you can choose different ones for all the guests. A ribbon will not only spice up the design but will also ensure that nothing is missing from the invitation.

Use An Embosser Stamp

 
Use An Embosser Stamp
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

If a regular stamp is a little bit too old-fashioned for – you can opt for the embosser one instead. The fact is that even the simplest invitation will look rich and elegant with a stamp like that. Besides, it will surely not cost you a fortune, although everyone will think that it does!

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Add More Colors With Watercolor

Add More Colors With Watercolor #creativeinvites
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

There are times when simple wedding invitations are the best ones. The truth is that adding a watercolor touch to your invitation is super modern since the watercolor trend is on the edge of popularity these days. What is more, such an invitation will not look super pompous but elegant and cute.

Apply Calligraphy Lettering

 
Apply Calligraphy Lettering
Credit photo: Instagram.com/mamaincstudio

We know that your handwriting leaves much to be desired at times, it may seem insignificant in the majority of cases but not when it comes to your invitations. To make them look perfect, all must be written in perfect handwriting. There are two options to choose from – either let someone who is good at it address your invitations or take calligraphy classes. You will see it will pay off instantly, and all the guests will be mesmerized with perfection!

Tie With Twine And Tags

Tie With Twine And Tags #invites
Credit photo: Instagram.com/mamaincstudio

To add some rustic and vintage look to your wedding invitations you can use the twines and tags. Besides, this type of decoration is a quite practical one since, just like the ribbons, it will keep all the pieces in one place so that nothing goes missing before it reaches the recipient.

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Wax Stamping

Wax Stamping #invites #wedding
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

Are fascinated with all that speaks past decades and style? We have a good idea in mind how you can apply that to your invitations. The fact is that everything is fairly simple – seal your invitations envelopes with wax! However, as fun as it sounds, it may take you a while to get the hang of the process. We would suggest you practice on something less valuable as your invitations first.

Creative Envelope

Creative Envelope #invites
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

It is easy to miss that fact that not only the invitations matter but the envelope they are put in too. That is why you should think of fancy ways to spice that part too. You will be surprised how many simple and creative tutorials there are online. Besides, you can always use the material at hand to come up with an even more personalized touch!

When Should You Get Wedding Invitations?

When Should You Get Wedding Invitations? #weddingplanning
Credit photo: Instagram.com/elegantweddinginvites

We have addressed the invitations properly, figured out everything about the fancy design. The only thing that is left is to figure out when to send wedding invitations. Well, first of all you need to think about people who live far away, they need to be able to settle all things down so that they are able to attend your wedding. That is why 6 to 12 months before the occasion is the best-case scenario. However, if you are planning your wedding somewhere far away in a foreign country, two years in advance would be great.

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How Much Should You Spend On Wedding Invitations?

How Much Should You Spend On Wedding Invitations?
Credit photo: Instagram.com/mamaincstudio

There are many things to consider when you are planning your wedding and your wedding budget is clearly one of the most important things. Remember, in case you are considering a wedding invitation as a part of your big day – set aside up to 6% of the whole sum you are going to spend.

Paper and printing technique

You may already know that there are various sorts of paper, and you may guess that your invitations should be printed in fine paper. However, apart from the quality and the color you chose, there are also printing methods to consider. All of them cost differently.

  • Digital printing from $700 to $1200 for 100 invitations.
  • Offset printing and thermography would take you around $1200
  • Letterpress printing is worth $1600 approximately
  • Engraving will start from $2200

Invitation accents

Apart from the printing itself, there are lots of accents to consider, as well as to add to your invitations. We are going to supply you with some prices here too.

  • Foil stamping would cost you up to $1800 per 100 invitations
  • Blind Debossing and Embossing - $400
  • Wax Seals - $300
  • Insert Cards - $500
  • Envelope Liners - $450

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What Is The Cheapest Way To Do Wedding Invitations?

What Is The Cheapest Way To Do Wedding Invitations? #invitations
Credit photo: Instagram.com/papiradesign

If you consider everything stated above, it is easy to conclude that there is no such thing as cheap wedding invitations. However, you are forgetting about diy wedding invitations! Not only they may turn out to be cheaper but also very unique and personalized. Here are the main ways you can save on your wedding invitations at least a little.

  • Create your own invitations
  • Use the help of a crafty friend
  • Purchase the cardstock on your own
  • Leave Engraving and Embossing out
  • Make it simple
  • Use your personal photos as invitations
  • Proofread each invitation before sending it out
  • Come up with your own design

Ideas of Creative Wedding Invitation Designs

Wedding invitations are an essential part of the occasion. Make sure you are fully prepared when the time comes to send those out!

FAQ: Wedding Invitations

How many weeks in advance do I send out wedding invitations?

You can send out invitations to your guests 5 to 8 weeks before the big day. 3 months before your wedding is a good time for sending out invitations to your guests for a destination wedding.

What is the wedding invitation etiquette?

The full names of the people getting married, the names of the hosts (if different), as well as the location and the ceremony time are all that should be included on a wedding invitation.

Do wedding invitations have pictures?

Your guests will be able to see who you are as a couple thanks to photo wedding invitations. Close friends and family will appreciate having a recent snapshot of the two of you. More distant friends and family, in their turn, will appreciate catching a glimpse of the individuals you have grown into.

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