Anatomy of an INVITATION
Traditional wedding invitations can be confusing . They often use formal language
and include multiple pieces of stationery . We break it down to demystify the various components so your invitation assembly will be a breeze .
14 DESTINATION BLISS
HOST LINE
The first line on any invitation should name the hosts . If one set of parents is the official host , their name should go there . If both sets of parents are hosting , each set of parents should have their own line . If you and your spouse are , you can always write “ the happy couple ” or begin with the couple ’ s names . In more than half of modern weddings , couples pay for most of their wedding while their family members chip in a bit — in this case , “ Together with their Families ” will suffice .
COUPLE ’ S NAMES
Traditionally , the bride ’ s full name is listed first . The groom ’ s full name should also be written out , unless his parents are named underneath , e . g . “ Son of Mr . and Mrs . Smith .” If it ’ s a same-sex wedding , the names should be listed in alphabetical order .
DATE AND TIME
If you ’ re a stickler for tradition , you ’ ll want to write out the date and time completely ; however , if the overall vibe of your day is more laid-back , stick to numerical dates and times .
LOCATION
List the name of the venue , followed by the city and state . The exact street address can be listed on your website .
RECEPTION LINE
If your reception is at the same venue as your ceremony , something simple like “ Dinner and dancing to follow ” is fine . If you ’ re switching venues , you ’ ll want to include the name of the new location .