Wedding invitation wording etiquette simply refers to how your details are traditionally structured on a formal invitation. This includes who is hosting, how you refer to yourselves as a couple, the tone of voice, the time and location layout, and how you share additional details.
While etiquette has its roots in tradition, today’s couples often opt for a modern twist. At Julia Kay Design, we can help you strike the perfect balance between honoring tradition and creating something that feels authentically you.
A traditional format may be the right fit if your wedding is formal, held in a classic venue, or guided by family customs. Traditional wording is elegant and timeless, offering a polished and refined introduction to your day.
Traditional invitations typically use third person wording and more formal phrasing. Couples love how beautifully this reads on fine art stationery. Every detail has its place: hosts, couple names, ceremony invitation line, date, time, venue, reception details, and RSVP information.
Historically, the hosts extend the invitation. This may look like:
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Miller request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter...
Modern wedding invitation wording is perfect for couples who want a relaxed or contemporary feel. The invitations read more like a heartfelt message from the couple rather than a formal announcement. It feels approachable and joyful, while still being polished.
Many modern couples choose to remove hosts altogether, focusing the invitation on the two of them. You have the freedom to play with hierarchy, minimal wording, or unique phrasing.
Many modern couples choose to include a soft nod to family without following strict etiquette rules. Instead of listing parents formally, you might use:
Together with their families
Surrounded by the people they love most
In celebration with their families
Or you may opt to remove hosting lines entirely, keeping the focus on the two of you.
Sophia and Daniel invite you to celebrate their marriage...
With joyful hearts, Sophia and Daniel invite you to join them as they say I do
Join us for the wedding of Sophia and Daniel
Rather than the traditional spelled out format, you can choose something more straightforward and minimal.
Saturday, May 17, 2026 at 4 PM
The Willows at Ashcombe Mansion
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
This modern approach is clean and easy for guests to follow, especially when paired with a cohesive suite including details cards and RSVP cards.
Some couples want wording that feels completely their own. This style is for the couple who don’t mind bending or completely ignoring typical etiquette rules. If your wedding leans more towards intimate or intentionally unstructured, non traditional phrasing may be the perfect fit.
This category gives you the freedom to express your excitement in a way that feels like an extension of your personalities rather than a formal announcement. Details may be simplified or rearranged, leaning into clarity instead of formality.
These invitations might begin with phrases like:
Come celebrate with us
We’re getting married and you’re invited
Let’s toast to forever
Wording your invitations should feel exciting, not overwhelming. When you work with Julia Kay Design, you receive professional guidance for every line of text. We provide beautifully curated options, explain etiquette clearly, and help you select language that fits your celebration.
From traditional scripts to modern layouts, every design is customized to your voice, your wedding style, and your preferences. You are never left guessing what to write. We make sure the wording flows effortlessly and looks stunning in your suite.
Our entire design process is intentionally crafted to be simple and enjoyable. You feel supported, confident, and inspired as we bring your vision to life through meaningful details and timeless design choices.
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