Good invitation wording does two jobs: it sets the tone of the celebration and it answers the practical questions of who, when and where. Pick a voice that sounds like you, then make sure the essentials are impossible to miss.
The five details every invitation needs
- Who is getting married (and who is hosting, if it matters to your family).
- The date, written in full, and the start time.
- The venue name and address, ideally with a map.
- How to reply and by when.
- Any notes guests need: dress code, children, parking.
Formal
- Together with their families, Sarah Collins and Daniel Brooks request the honour of your presence at their marriage on Saturday, the twelfth of December, at four o'clock in the afternoon.
- Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hayes invite you to celebrate the marriage of their daughter Claire to Thomas Reed.
- The pleasure of your company is requested as we exchange vows and begin our life together.
Modern and warm
- We're getting married, and it would not feel complete without you.
- After seven years, two cities and one very patient dog, we are finally tying the knot.
- Join us for vows, dinner and far too much dancing.
- Come celebrate love, good food and the start of our next chapter.
Playful
- She said yes. Now we need you to say yes too (RSVP below).
- Eat, drink and watch us get married.
- Grab your dancing shoes: it's official.
- We promise the speeches will be short. The party will not.
RSVP lines that get answers
- Kindly reply by November 20 so we can save you a seat.
- Please let us know by the 20th, even if you can't make it.
- Tap RSVP below. It takes less than a minute.
Read the final text aloud once. If any line sounds stiff or confusing when spoken, it will read that way too.