With your invitations being one of the first things your guests see in the leadup to your big day, your focus should be on giving them a great first impression. After all, you want family and friends to feel welcomed and look forward to your big day — and not confused or offended with your choice of design or wording. That’s why it is best to follow proper etiquette when sending out your invitations. Of course, this shouldn’t stop you from adding some personality. Here is a list of do’s and don’ts when sending out personalized wedding invitations.
Your List of Do’s
Do Write the Bride’s Name First
You often hear brides-to-be gushing over the fact that their big day is right around the corner. In that vein, when sending out wedding invitations, it’s commonplace and tradition for the bride’s name to be listed first. This is also because the bride’s parents are usually the hosts, paying a greater share of the expenses.
Do Include an RSVP Deadline
How long should guests have to RSVP for your big day? In a perfect world, you want to receive a notice (one way or the other) three to four weeks before the wedding. Even with a wedding RSVP deadline in place, though, you’ll be surprised how many guests ignore it. Ultimately, choose an RSVP deadline that allows your guests ample time to reply but also gives you enough wiggle room to accommodate the final headcount at the venue.
Do Include Meal Choices
It may be hard to believe, but some couples forget to include meal choices on their response cards. Don’t be those couples; after all, no one wants to show up to a wedding and be stuck with a less-than-appetizing meal choice. Thus, remember to provide the meal choices being offered for your reception. This should be listed on the RSVP response card, so you know what to tell your wedding caterers once the final headcount is requested.
Your List of Don’ts
Don’t Include Registry Details on Your Invitation
Make sure to steer clear of including your registry information on your wedding invitations. It’s often considered tacky and simply not necessary when inviting guests to such a special occasion. However, you can share this information with your guests by either word of mouth or by posting it on your wedding website.
Don’t Be Vague About Who’s Invited
Bottom line: Be straight and to the point by making sure the name of each guest invited to your wedding is listed on the inner envelope. This way, you’ll avoid any confusion or embarrassment about whether someone is invited — and this is especially true when it comes to kids. Of course, invited guests who want to bring their kids will wonder if they’re breaking a rule if there’s no mention of this information on their invitation.
Don’t Mention Gifts or Registries
Even if you aren’t requesting guests bring gifts, it’s common courtesy not to include this on your wedding invitations. Why? For one thing, it’s poor etiquette to assume your guests owe you a gift. Instead, information about a wedding registry and/or a charitable contribution should be shared by word of mouth and included on your wedding website.
These Do’s and Don’ts Will Help You Get Things Just Right
There are many ways to make your wedding day special — and the way you choose to send out your wedding invitations is no different. Choosing the right paper, decorative touches, and wording can set the tone and help your guests know what to expect on your big day. Whether you’re planning a black-tie affair or a casual backyard barbecue, these do’s and don’ts will help you get it just right.
