Wedding Invitation Etiquette for Parents of the Couple40

Inviting parents to a wedding is a significant and delicate matter. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the etiquette and create heartfelt invitations that honor their special role in your lives.

Who to Invite

Typically, both sets of parents should be invited to the wedding, even if they are divorced or remarried. If there are stepparents or adoptive parents involved, consider their relationship with the couple and their involvement in the planning process.

When to Send Invitations

Invitations should be sent out 6-8 weeks before the wedding date. If there are any special circumstances, such as parents living far away or international guests, it is advisable to send them sooner.

How to Address the Invitation

The proper way to address the invitation depends on the parents' relationship status and names. Here are some examples:
Mr. and Mrs. [Parents' Full Names]
Mr. [Father's Name] and Ms. [Mother's Name]
Mr. [Stepfather's Name] and Mrs. [Mother's Name]
Mr. and Ms. [Adoptive Parents' Names]

Invitation Wording

The invitation wording should be formal and respectful. It should include the following information:
Names of the couple
Date and time of the ceremony
Location of the ceremony and reception
RSVP information
Dress code (optional)

Additional Considerations

Here are some additional considerations to ensure a respectful and meaningful invitation experience:
Special Note: If there are any particular customs or traditions that are important to the parents, it is thoughtful to incorporate them into the invitation.
Enclosure Card: For parents who are traveling from out of town, it is helpful to include an enclosure card with information about accommodations, transportation, and local attractions.
Personal Touch: Add a handwritten note to the invitation expressing your love and appreciation for your parents.
Proofread Carefully: Before sending out the invitations, proofread them meticulously to ensure there are no errors in spelling, grammar, or addressing.

Example Invitation

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith,

We are honored to invite you to the wedding of our daughter, Jane, to Michael Jones, on Saturday, June 10th, 2023, at Four o'clock in the afternoon.

The ceremony will be held at St. Mary's Church, located at 567 Oak Street, Anytown, CA.

Following the ceremony, a reception will be held at The Grand Hotel, 987 Pine Street, Anytown, CA.

We would be delighted if you could share this special day with us. Enclosed you will find a card for your RSVP. Please respond by May 15th, 2023.

With love and appreciation,

Jane and Michael

2025-01-31

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