How to Properly Announce Your Wedding: A Guide to Invitations and Etiquette
Creating wedding invitations isn’t as simple as it may seem. Beyond the creative details, there are etiquette rules to follow, especially regarding the content and the correct order of names. Your wedding invitation is the first glimpse guests get of your big day—it sets the tone, reveals the style, and builds anticipation. Here’s how to get it just right.
The Significance of Wedding Invitations
Wedding invitations are more than just informative—they’re part of your wedding aesthetic. These beautifully crafted cards are often the stars of flat-lay photography (styled overhead shots) and contain not just logistical details but also meaningful phrases and artistic touches. Most importantly, they serve as the first official announcement of your wedding theme and color palette.
So, how do you structure your invitation properly? Let’s explore the different ways to format the announcement, from traditional to modern approaches.
The Parents’ Announcement
Traditionally, wedding invitations were issued by the parents, as they played a central role in organizing the event. This format is now less common, as couples today take full control of their wedding plans. However, it remains an elegant choice for formal weddings.
In this format, the bride’s parents are listed on the left, and the groom’s on the right, following the tradition that the bride’s father “gives away” his daughter. However, this structure may not be suitable if:
- The parents are divorced and not on good terms.
- One of the spouses has lost a parent.
- The couple has been living together for some time.
For highly formal ceremonies, though, this traditional structure still holds charm and prestige.
The Formal Announcement by the Couple
In modern weddings, it’s common for the couple themselves to make the announcement, symbolizing independence and equality. There are no strict rules here: you can place either name on the left or right, though conventionally, the groom’s name appears on the right and the bride’s on the left. However, as a gesture of gallantry or personal preference, this order can be reversed.
The Informal Wedding Announcement
If you’re planning a relaxed, unconventional wedding, your invitation can take on a playful tone. Some fun phrases to start with include:
- We’re finally getting married!
- Join us for our special day!
- Save the date—we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
This style puts the couple at the heart of the announcement, making it more personal and engaging.
Announcing the Wedding as a Family
For couples who already have children, incorporating them into the wedding invitation adds warmth and significance. Instead of a traditional structure, the announcement can be made in the voices of your children, reflecting the importance of family in this special moment.
This approach is especially meaningful when children from previous relationships are involved, as it makes them feel included and valued.
Wedding Invitations vs. Wedding Participation Cards
Etiquette suggests that the number of wedding invitations should match the number of participation cards, but in reality, this is rarely the case. The key difference lies in the text rather than the structure of names.
To simplify the printing process, consider designing a single layout for both and adding a separate insert with banquet details. This additional card can include:
- The couple’s names.
- A short formal or casual invitation to the reception.
- A dress code suggestion, such as elegant attire for a sophisticated celebration.
Adding the Final Touch: Thank You Tags
Even your thank-you tags—those charming little notes attached to wedding favors or confetti bags—should reflect your personal style. While tradition dictates that the groom’s name comes first, modern weddings often reverse this, whether for gallantry, feminism, or personal preference.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Wedding?
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