Informal and Formal Invitations: How to Word Your Invite

Tradition and etiquette basics for invitation are things that a party planner should learn when taking on the job of planning for a wedding. What is a traditional invitation and what is an informal one? These are questions that we will answer in this article.

There are various options for wedding invitations; you could have something like a book with your photos on the cover, or a simple card with exquisite calligraphy. Regardless of the design, the wording on the invitation must be perfect, and appropriate to the wedding theme or the couple’s preferences.

A traditional wedding is to be held in a church or another similarly formal setting.

• The key phrase on the invite must be “request the honor of your presence”
• Traditionally, the parents of the bride and groom issue the invitation, and the titles that they have must also be indicated (M.D., Ph.D, MSW etc). The implication of this is that the parents are the ones spending for the wedding. If the parents are separated but not divorced, the wording should be as though they are still together.
• You must place the words “black tie” or “strictly formal” at the bottom of your invite to alert the guests about the dress code.
• Guests expect a sit-down dinner after the ceremony

An informal party is something that is held in a place other than a church (e.g a garden, beach)

• You can opt to issue the invitation, and use the phrase “pleasure of your company”i.e. “Katie and John request the pleasure of your company”
• Indicate if the reception is a full dinner or a cocktail affair so that the guests can prepare (eat beforehand or make plans for a full dinner after your party)
• Indicate the dress code. In my opinion, saying “casual” isn’t enough, and most people interpret this phrase in different ways.

Re: Cash Gifts

There are conflicting opinions regarding cash gifts. Do you state in the invitation that you prefer monetary gifts? Some have done this and it’s perfectly fine for them, but as a rule, indicating that you want the guests to give you cash instead of the gift-wrapped presents thaty they prepared is tacky. Of course, guests know that they have to give something, but indicating your preference on the invite will make some people feel that their attendance isn’t enough for you.

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