Wording is one of the most common things that trips couples up when it comes to wedding invitations. Do you include parents? What about dress codes, gift details, or RSVP instructions? Should it be formal or casual? The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all—just what feels right for you. Here’s your go-to guide to wording your invitations with clarity and confidence.
Traditionally, invitations start by naming the hosts of the wedding (often the parents). But modern couples are mixing things up with options that reflect their style, family structure, and preferences.
Formal (Hosted by parents)
Mr and Mrs William Bennett
request the pleasure of your company
at the marriage of their daughter
Sarah Louise Bennett
to
James Andrew Carter
son of Mr and Mrs David Carter
Joint Hosting (Both sets of parents)
Together with their families
Sarah Bennett and James Carter
invite you to celebrate their wedding
Couple Hosting (Modern)
Sarah & James
invite you to celebrate their wedding
Casual & Personal
With great joy
Sarah & James
invite you to join them in celebrating their marriage
This section covers the essentials: date, time, and venue. Keep it simple, clear, and elegant.
Example:
Saturday 22 March 2025
at 3.30 in the afternoon
The Glasshouse, Melbourne
If your ceremony and reception are in the same place, add: Reception to follow
Different venues? Include both: Example:
Ceremony at 3.30pm
The Glasshouse, Melbourne
Reception at 6.00pm
The Atrium, Royal Botanic Gardens
Including a dress code helps guests feel confident and comfortable.
Some examples:
Black tie
Cocktail attire
Spring garden party
Please, no white or black dresses
Add it at the bottom of the invitation or on a separate card.
A details card is your catch-all space for anything that doesn’t belong on the main invitation. It keeps your suite looking clean while giving guests all the info they need.
Include things like:
Transport or parking information
Accommodation suggestions
Plus-one or guest policy (e.g. “invitations are for named guests only”)
Child-free wedding note
Gift registry or wishing well details
Wedding website URL
RSVP details (if you’re not using a separate RSVP card)
Keep it concise and easy to read—your guests will thank you!
Your wording sets the tone for the day. If you’re going for a formal black-tie affair, your phrasing should reflect that. If it’s a relaxed beach or garden wedding, a more casual tone is totally appropriate.
There’s no “correct” way—just what feels right for your day and your personalities.
We’ve got you. Every Polka Dot Paper design includes wording support, so you can feel confident that everything sounds exactly how it should.
Explore our semi-custom invitations or get in touch for a completely custom design.
Let your invites do more than share the date—let them set the tone for the celebration to come.
