How to Word Your Wedding Invitations: Formal vs. Casual Styles
Your wedding invitations set the stage for your big day, giving guests their first glimpse into the tone and style of your celebration. Whether you're hosting a black-tie affair or a relaxed garden party, your wording should reflect the level of formality while maintaining clarity and warmth.
In this guide, we'll explore the key differences between formal and casual wedding invitation wording, offering examples and expert tips to help you craft the perfect message.
Formal Wedding Invitation Wording
If your wedding is a traditional, black-tie, or elegant event, your invitations should follow classic etiquette. Formal invitations typically:
Use traditional phrasing, avoiding contractions
Spell out dates, times, and venue locations fully
Follow proper etiquette for host names and guest titles
Example: Formal Wedding Invitation Wording
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Mary Elizabeth
to
James William Thomas
Saturday, the twenty-first of September
two thousand twenty-four
at half past five o’clock in the evening
The Grand Ballroom
New York, New York
Reception to follow
Wren Collection
Tips for Formal Wedding Invitations:Use traditional titles (e.g., “Doctor,” “Reverend,” or “The Honorable” when applicable)
Spell out all words, including numbers and states
Avoid using abbreviations
Use elegant, timeless fonts
Casual Wedding Invitation Wording
If your wedding is more relaxed, such as a beach ceremony or backyard celebration, your wording can reflect that. Casual invitations are often:
More conversational in tone
Flexible with phrasing and structure
Free to include fun or unique wording styles
Example: Casual Wedding Invitation Wording
Join us for the wedding of
Mary & James!
September 21, 2024
at 5:30 PM
The Grand Ballroom | New York, NY
Dinner, dancing, and fun to follow!
Astrid Collection
Tips for Casual Wedding Invitations:Feel free to use first names only
Use relaxed phrasing (e.g., “Come celebrate with us!”)
Numbers and abbreviations are perfectly acceptable
Add a playful touch with personalized wording
Key Elements to Include in Any Wedding Invitation
Regardless of formality, your wedding invitations should always include:
Who’s Hosting? (Bride’s parents, both families, or the couple?)
The Names of the Couple
The Date and Time
The Location (Venue name and city; include address if needed)
Reception Details (If at a different location, add a reception card)
RSVP Information (Include a deadline and reply method)
Making It Personal: Additional Wording Considerations
Including Attire Requests: If you want to let guests know the dress code, include it at the bottom of the invitation: Black tie attire or Casual chic.
Mentioning a Wedding Website: If you have additional details to share, add a separate enclosure card with your wedding website URL.
Fun Additions for Casual Invites: Add a quote, phrase, or inside joke to reflect your personalities!
Wren Collection
Final Thoughts
Your wedding invitation wording should feel natural, welcoming, and true to the style of your celebration. Whether you opt for a formal structure steeped in tradition or a laid-back, modern approach, the most important thing is that your invitations reflect you as a couple.
Still need help? Browse our beautifully designed wedding invitations or reach out for a custom consultation—we’d love to bring your vision to life!
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