So, you’ve decided to forgo a wedding template to design your own unique, one-of-a-kind wedding invitation — good for you for doing something special! That said, as you compile the information you need, such as the time of the ceremony and the dress code, you might be wondering how to lay it all out.
You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about creating a beautiful and clear wedding invitation that perfectly captures the essence of your big day.
What to Include in Your Wedding Invitation
Before diving into the layout specifics, let’s quickly explore the essential elements that should be part of your wedding invitation:
- Host line: Who’s hosting (or paying for) the wedding? For example, “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” could be the bride’s parents, indicating they are the hosts.
- Request line: A cordial invitation to your guests.
- Names: Traditionally, the bride’s name precedes the groom’s. For instance, “Emily Smith and Michael Johnson.”
- Date and time: Don’t let your guests miss the moment.
- Location: Where’s the celebration? Include the full address of your wedding venue.
- Reception information: If it’s at a different venue, mention details like “Reception to follow at [Venue Name and Address].”
- Dress code: To guide your guests on what to wear.
- RSVP instructions: How (e.g., a website link) and when guests should confirm their attendance.
How Do You Lay Out a Wedding Invitation?
Your wedding invitation should balance aesthetics and clarity. In terms of information order, start with the host line, followed by the request line, then progress logically to the RSVP. For example, the dress code should come before the RSVP instructions as it’s pertinent information guests need before confirming their attendance.
Wedding invitation layout tips:
- Center alignment: Traditionally, the most important information, like the bride and groom’s names, is centered at the top.
- Hierarchy and font size: Use varying font sizes to emphasize important details, like the names and date.
- Design elements: Consider adding decorative flourishes, like borders or motifs, that align with your wedding theme.
- Don’t skimp on white space. Maintain enough white space for a clean look.
- Separate RSVP card: If you have a separate RSVP card, mention a brief RSVP line on the main invitation, like “RSVP by [Date] using the enclosed card.”
What Are the Rules of Thumb for Wedding Invitations?
Navigating the etiquette and style of wedding invitations can be complex, but these additional guidelines will help you create an invitation that resonates with both tradition and your personal style.
What order do names go on wedding invitations?
The standard order is the hosts’ names, the couple’s names, the date and time, followed by the venue. If parents are hosting, they come first.
Does the bride or groom go first on wedding invitations?
Traditionally, the bride’s name comes first, especially if the bride’s parents are hosting. However, modern invitations often place names in alphabetical order or as you, the couple, prefer.
Do both sets of parents’ names go on wedding invitations?
If both parents are contributing, it’s common to include both names. Alternatively, modern invitations sometimes feature just the couple’s names.
How should you word the invitation if the couple is hosting?
If you are hosting, you can combine the first two lines into something like “Emily Smith and Michael Johnson invite you to their wedding.”
What’s the best way to include plus-one information?
Include language such as “and guest” on the outer envelope to indicate that a plus-one is welcome.
Should you mention gifts or registries on the invitation?
Traditionally, information about gifts or registries is not included in the invitation. Instead, add it to your wedding website.
Ready, Set, Design
Go ahead and bookmark these guidelines, but remember: there are no hard and fast rules — it’s your day, and your invitation should resonate with your personal touch.
Happy designing, and here’s to a wedding invitation that’s as special as your big day!