Avoid These Top 5 Etiquette Mistakes on Your Wedding Invitations
The wedding invitation is still one area where etiquette remains an absolute must. The general rules of etiquette still apply, such as no abbreviations. However, there are five common etiquette mistakes that you can easily avoid. This will help the recipients of your invitations appreciate the time and energy you have put into this important piece of your wedding.
The Parents’ Names
This is a must if the parents are paying for the wedding. It’s a way of acknowledging their generosity and it means a lot to Mom and Dad. While it can be difficult to fit all the names in if there have been marriages and divorces, it’s simply worth the effort. Consider a tri-fold invitation to allow for enough room to be certain everyone is included. This should be done even if you and your soon-to-be spouse are paying for most of the wedding.
It’s also a great way for some guests to recognize who you are if they are colleague or an extended family member. It only makes sense that these guests are more likely to attend if they know who you are!
Foregoing Formal Wording
One of the most common etiquette mistakes is to forego formal wording. Many couples today make the mistake of using very informal or conversational language, in their wedding invitations. This is especially true if you are having an informal ceremony. However, this is one specific area where your wording needs to be traditional and include all of the right titles, spellings, and punctuation.
Misspellings or Omissions
This is simply not acceptable. When it comes to your guests’ names, there is no excuse for a misspelling. If you are not certain, make some phone calls until you have it exactly right. Take your time when addressing the envelopes. Make sure you include the proper title with each name. If you are in doubt, again, check to be sure it’s right.
Including Gift Registry Information
No matter how informal your invitations may be, this is never acceptable. If you want to include a card with your wedding website on it, that is acceptable. Guests can visit the website and see your wedding gift registry, as well as other important information. Many couples are turning to telephone and email RSVP’s as well, in order to conserve paper and be more environmentally conscious.
Using “Guest” to Identify a Guest’s Guest
If one of your guests has a fiancé or even a long-standing partner, do not use the word “guest” on the invitation. Take the time to find out their name. Call a relative or even call the person in question directly. They will appreciate the extra effort.
In Closing
There you have it. The five common etiquette mistakes on wedding invitations. It only takes a second for you to set the tone and to make an impression about your upcoming nuptials. It doesn’t take but a moment of your time to make sure both are correct.
Janine Sinclair is an experienced writer who writes on the subject of <a href=”http://www.topsydneyweddingcakes.com.au” target=”_blank”>Sydney Wedding Cakes</a> for the Sydney Wedding Cake site. She also writes extensively about <a href=”http://www.kardella.com/” target=”_blank”>wedding invitations</a>.
