For truly formal events, there are certain rules of etiquette that are observed when writing an invitation. For less formal situations you can be more creative. Here are some things to remember when you’re composing a formal invitation:

• Write out names in full, including middle names. Omit a middle name if necessary, rather than using an initial.
• It’s appropriate to use the British spelling for “honour” and “favour”, unless you prefer to use the American spelling of these words.
• Spell out all words, including the hour, the date and the year. Spell out all words in the address, including Street, Road and Avenue.
• The Use Roman numerals in names, rather than “the third” or “3rd.”
• For ceremonies taking place in a house of worship, use “request the honour of your presence.”
• Ceremonies taking place in a non-religious setting should say, “request the pleasure of your company.”

Wedding invitation wording examples for when the parents of the bride are issuing the invitation:

Wedding invitation wording examples for when the couple is issuing the invitation:

Wedding invitation wording examples for when the groom’s parents host (left) and for when both sets of parents host(right).

Wedding invitation wording examples for when the bride’s divorced and remarried parents co-host (left) and for when the bride’s remarried mother and husband host (right).

Wedding invitation wording examples for when the bride’s divorced mother (not remarried) hosts (left) and for when the bride’s widowed mother/father hosts(right).

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