Wedding invitations are often saved by guests in scrapbooks and memory boxes, not to mention thoroughly read by every member of the family. Keeping a few rules in mind when writing your wedding invitations will help you avoid hearing about ‘what you did wrong’ in years to come. Etiquette in regards to what you write and do not write on a wedding invitation does exist and should be respectfully noted. A simple rule is to keep the invitation simple and only put what guests really need to know: the date, time and place of the wedding ceremony.
However, if you’re one of those “thinking” people who comes up with all sorts of ideas and “what ifs”, you’re probably going to wonder how much you can get away with on your wedding invitations. For people like you, we need to cover all of our bases to make sure you to don’t make a big faux pas right before you big day.
Today, as in the past, it is considered ‘tacky’ to include stores where you and your fiance are registered. This is information that is best kept to the bridal shower invitations or to be spread by word of mouth. In the near future, though, this may change, as many people are disregarding it.
Can you ask for cash on your wedding invitations instead of gifts? This is not in good taste. This knowledge again, can be given at the request of an inquisitive guest. You’re not a charity soliciting for cash donations. Again, the invitation is just an invite to get people to show up.
Another request not to put on your wedding invitation is ‘no smoking’ or ‘no alcohol’ on the invitation. This is considered blatantly rude. Most people will figure out what behavior is acceptable and not acceptable when they get to the reception. If someone does bring their own bottle, or starts to light up, it is OK to discreetly inform the guest of your wishes.
What about specifying a dress code on the wedding invitation? This is one of the few things you can specify, but only in a general way. You want your guests to feel comfortable and not feel ‘under’ or ‘overdressed’ at your wedding. This is done for their benefit, not yours. “Black Tie” is appropriate only for the most formal of weddings where you expect your guests to rent tuxedos and wear evening gowns. Or, if you are going to have a reception on the beach with a cookout and beach volleyball, certainly inform your guests of that so they can bring appropriate clothing to the reception.
In short, keep in mind your guests are your guests. As with all guests, you don’t want to seem demanding, you just want them to share in a happy experience in your life.
