Invitation wording tips: what to include (and what you can skip)
How to word my wedding invitations
Your wedding invitations are more than just a date and location, they’re the very first glimpse your guests get into your big day. But figuring out what to include (and what to leave out) can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to make sure your wording feels thoughtful, personal, and beautifully clear.
The must‑haves
At the heart of every invitation suite are the essentials that even the most minimal designs need. These details make sure your guests know exactly where to be, when to be there, and how to let you know they’re coming.
Make sure to include:
Names of the couple (traditionally the hosts' names too, if relevant)
Date and time of the ceremony
Venue name and address
RSVP details – including how and when to reply
Optional: dress code if you have one
Optional extras you can include
Depending on your wedding style and how much you would like to share upfront, you might like to add some additional details. These can either be on the reverse of your main invitation, or separately on a separate details card or RSVP card.
Reception and accommodation details (if in a different venue)
Wedding website link for extra info (travel, accommodation, FAQs)
Directions or map
Children / plus-one information
Favourite quote or poem for a personal touch
Gift wish
Details cards
A details card is the perfect place to share all the extra information your guests might need without crowding your main invitation. Think accommodation options, transport arrangements, dress code, directions to the venue, gift list details, and a link to your wedding website if you have one. It keeps your suite elegant while making sure guests have everything at their fingertips.
RSVP Card
Your RSVP card should make it easy for guests to reply. Include a space for them to write their names, tick ‘accept’ or ‘decline,’ and add meal choices if needed. You might also ask about dietary requirements or song requests. Remember to include a return address (and even a stamp if you wish) to make sending it back as simple as possible.
Invitations meet wedding websites: the best of both worlds
Printed invitations keep things timeless and elegant, while a wedding website gives you space to share everything else: travel info, accommodation details, your love story, and even a playlist. By merging the two, you can keep your main invite beautifully simple and still share all the extras your guests might need.
Traditional vs modern wording
When it comes to wording your wedding invitations, couples often find themselves choosing between traditional/formal and modern/casual styles, each setting a different tone for the day.
Traditional wording is typically more formal and timeless, often including phrases like:
“Together with their families, Emma Campbell and James Anderson request the pleasure of your company at their marriage...”
This style usually spells out dates and times in full and can feel classic and elegant.
Some couples like to extend the invitation from the brides parents, adding a more formal touch.
"Mr. and Mrs. Wilson request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Maria, to Thomas Walsh".
Modern wording, on the other hand, feels warmer, relaxed, and more personal, for example:
“Emma & James invite you to celebrate their wedding…”
You might choose to include your wedding website, a fun quote, or playful language that reflects your personalities. Whichever you choose, the key is to match the wording to the atmosphere you want to create for your big day.
Top tip: proof, proof, proof
Even the most stunning design can’t hide a typo. Read everything carefully, check the important details, and ask a friend or family member to proof before printing.
Final thoughts
Wording your invitations doesn’t need to be stressful. Focus on sharing what matters most, in a way that feels true to you. And if you’re ever unsure, your stationer can help you strike the perfect balance between essential details and personal touches.