Together With Our Families Wedding Invites

Celebrating love often involves intricate details, starting with the perfect announcement and the wording of the together with our families wedding invitation. These invitations, often designed in collaboration with talented graphic designers from stationery shops like Minted, serve as the first glimpse into your special day. Etiquette experts at "Brides" magazine often emphasize the importance of including all family members on this formal announcement, reflecting the union of not just two individuals, but two families. Including the phrase "together with their families" is a beautiful way to express this sentiment, ensuring everyone feels honored and acknowledged as you and your partner embark on this beautiful journey.

Announcing Your Forever: Crafting the Perfect Wedding Invitation

Your wedding invitation: It’s more than just a piece of paper.

It’s the opening act, the curtain-raiser to one of the most important days of your life. It’s the very first impression your guests will have of your wedding, a sneak peek into the celebration you’re meticulously planning.

Think of it as a tiny ambassador, carrying news of your joy and setting expectations for the festivities to come.

More than just logistical details, the invitation should encapsulate the very essence of you as a couple.

Reflecting Your Style: Setting the Tone

Does your style lean towards timeless elegance, or a more modern, bohemian vibe?

The invitation provides the perfect opportunity to showcase your shared personality.

It’s your chance to hint at the atmosphere you’re creating, whether it’s a grand ballroom affair or a rustic garden party. The design, the paper stock, the font, and the wording all contribute to the overall impression.

Each element should work in harmony to communicate your unique style.

The Journey to the Perfect Invitation: A Quick Overview

Creating the perfect wedding invitation involves a few key steps.

It can seem daunting at first, but breaking it down makes the process manageable, and even enjoyable!

1. Defining Your Style: Determine the overall tone and formality of your wedding.
2. Crafting the Wording: Choose the right phrases to convey all essential information.
3. Selecting the Elements: Decide on fonts, colors, and design details.
4. Addressing and Mailing: Ensure your invitations arrive on time and in style.

Remember, it’s a journey, and with a little planning, you can create invitations that are as special as the day they announce.

Understanding the Key Players and Etiquette

Your wedding invitation journey involves more than just choosing pretty fonts and paper. It’s about navigating relationships, honoring traditions, and, most importantly, reflecting you as a couple. Let’s break down the roles and considerations for each key player, while keeping in mind that etiquette is a guideline, not a rigid rulebook.

The Bride and Groom: Your Personal Stamp

This is your day. Your personalities should shine through every aspect of the invitation, from the design to the wording.

Are you a fun-loving couple who enjoys quirky details? Or do you prefer a more classic and elegant approach?

Don’t be afraid to infuse your invitation with elements that tell your story and represent your unique bond. This might include an inside joke, a shared hobby, or a nod to how you met.

Your invitation is the first glimpse your guests will have of your wedding, so make it a true reflection of your love.

Parents and Family: Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Traditionally, the bride’s parents hosted and paid for the wedding, and their names were prominently featured on the invitation.

However, modern weddings often involve contributions from both sets of parents, or even the couple themselves.

How do you navigate these complexities while respecting family dynamics?

Open communication is key. Discuss expectations with your parents early on to avoid any misunderstandings or hurt feelings.

If both sets of parents are contributing, consider a phrase like "Together with their families" or list both sets of parents’ names.

If you and your partner are hosting, you can simply state, "Bride and Groom request the pleasure of your company."

Divorced Parents: Navigating Sensitivities

Including divorced parents on the invitation can be tricky, but it’s essential to handle the situation with sensitivity and respect.

If parents are amicable, you can list them separately on different lines, using phrases like "Mr. John Smith and Mrs. Jane Doe."

If one parent is remarried, you can include their spouse’s name as well: "Mr. John Smith and Mrs. Jane Smith."

If the relationship is strained, consider listing only the parent who is actively involved in the wedding planning.

Alternatively, you can use a more general phrase like "Together with their families" to avoid singling out any one individual.

A Note on Etiquette: Guidelines, Not Gospel

Wedding etiquette has evolved over time, and it’s important to remember that it’s a guideline, not a strict set of rules.

While it’s helpful to be aware of traditional customs, don’t feel obligated to follow them if they don’t align with your values or preferences.

Feel empowered to personalize your invitations and create a style that feels authentic to you.

Guest Experience: Making It Easy

Ultimately, your wedding invitation should be clear, informative, and easy to understand.

Make sure to include all the essential details, such as the date, time, location, and RSVP information.

Consider your guests’ perspective when choosing fonts, colors, and wording.

Is the text legible? Are the directions easy to follow? Is the RSVP deadline clearly stated?

A well-designed invitation not only looks beautiful but also provides a seamless and stress-free experience for your guests.

Defining Your Wedding Style: Formal or Informal?

Your wedding invitation journey involves more than just choosing pretty fonts and paper. It’s about navigating relationships, honoring traditions, and, most importantly, reflecting you as a couple. Let’s break down the roles and considerations for each key player, while keeping in mind that etiquette is a guide, not a rigid set of rules.

Deciding on your wedding style is a crucial first step that will inform every aspect of your big day, from the venue and attire to, of course, your invitations. But how do you translate your vision into a tangible aesthetic? Let’s explore the key considerations for defining your wedding style, and how that influences your invitation design.

Formal vs. Informal: Setting the Tone

The formality of your wedding dictates much of the invitation’s design, wording, and overall feel. Are you envisioning a grand ballroom affair or a relaxed garden party?

A formal wedding typically involves a sophisticated venue, black-tie attire, and a multi-course meal.

Invitations for formal weddings should reflect this elegance, perhaps with:

• Classic fonts like calligraphy or serif typefaces.
• Heavy card stock.
• Traditional wording ("Mr. and Mrs. [Parents’ Names] request the honour of your presence…").
• Elegant embellishments like foil stamping or embossing.

On the other hand, an informal wedding embraces a more laid-back vibe.

Think outdoor settings, casual attire, and a focus on fun and personal touches.

Invitations for informal weddings can be more playful and creative, with:

• Modern fonts.
• Lighter paper stocks.
• Casual wording ("Join us as we celebrate the marriage of…").
• Whimsical illustrations or hand-lettering.

Classic vs. Contemporary: Embracing Tradition or Innovation

Beyond the formal/informal spectrum, you’ll also want to consider whether you lean towards a classic or contemporary aesthetic.

Classic Wedding Invitations

Classic invitations often draw inspiration from timeless designs, using traditional fonts, layouts, and wording. They exude sophistication and elegance, often favoring neutral color palettes and understated embellishments.

Think letterpress printing, delicate floral motifs, and phrases that have been used for generations.

Contemporary Wedding Invitations

Contemporary invitations, on the other hand, embrace modern design elements. They may feature bold colors, geometric patterns, unexpected layouts, and unique materials.

They can be minimalist, abstract, or even incorporate interactive elements.

Think bright color palettes, sans-serif fonts, and maybe even a QR code that leads to your wedding website.

Blending the Best of Both Worlds

Ultimately, your wedding style should reflect your personalities and preferences. Don’t feel confined by rigid definitions of "formal" or "classic". It’s perfectly acceptable (and often encouraged) to blend elements from different styles to create something truly unique.

• Example: You might have a formal black-tie wedding but incorporate a modern, minimalist invitation design.
• Another Example: You might have a casual backyard wedding but use elegant calligraphy for the names on the invitation.

The key is to find a balance that feels authentic to you as a couple. Don’t be afraid to experiment, play with different ideas, and create invitations that are a true reflection of your love story!

Crafting the Perfect Wording: Key Phrases and Considerations

Your wedding invitation journey involves more than just choosing pretty fonts and paper. It’s about navigating relationships, honoring traditions, and, most importantly, reflecting you as a couple. Let’s break down the roles and considerations for each key player, while keeping in mind that etiquette…

… is simply a framework, not a rigid rulebook. Your wedding invitation wording is a powerful tool to express your unique story, values, and the joyful celebration you’re planning. Let’s dive in!

Who’s Hosting? Expressing Your Gratitude

Traditionally, the wedding invitation wording would clearly indicate who is hosting (i.e., paying for) the wedding. This was often the bride’s parents.

However, modern weddings often involve contributions from various sources – the couple themselves, both sets of parents, or even close family and friends.

Acknowledging this support gracefully is key. Here are a few options:

• Traditional (Bride’s Parents Hosting): "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Jane Smith, to John Doe…".

• Couple Hosting: "Together with their families, Jane Smith and John Doe request the pleasure of your company at their wedding…".

• Combined Hosting: "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Doe request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their children, Jane Smith and John Doe…".

• Simple and Elegant: "Jane Smith and John Doe invite you to celebrate their wedding…".

The most important thing is to choose wording that feels authentic to you and reflects the reality of your wedding funding.

Navigating Co-Hosting Scenarios

Co-hosting can sometimes feel tricky, especially when multiple parties are contributing. The key is to ensure everyone feels acknowledged and appreciated.

Consider the following approaches:

• List all hosts: As shown in the "Combined Hosting" example above. This works well when both sets of parents are contributing equally.

• Use inclusive language: "Together with their families…" avoids explicitly naming individuals but acknowledges the support network.

• Acknowledge in a separate note: You could include a small, heartfelt note within the invitation expressing gratitude to specific individuals or families.

Addressing Divorced Parents with Grace

Navigating divorced parents can be one of the most delicate aspects of wedding planning. The goal is to create wording that is inclusive, respectful, and minimizes potential awkwardness.

Here are some strategies:

• List each parent separately: If both parents are contributing and have a positive relationship with the couple, list them on separate lines. "Mr. John Smith and Mrs. Jane Doe request the honour of your presence…".

• List the parent who is primarily hosting: If one parent is primarily hosting, you can list them and then acknowledge the other parent in a separate, smaller line. "Mr. John Smith requests the honour of your presence at the marriage of his daughter, Jane Smith. With the blessing of Mrs. Jane Doe…".

• Omit parental names altogether: "Together with their families…" is a safe and inclusive option that avoids explicitly mentioning parents.

• Consult with your parents: Open communication is crucial. Discuss the wording options with your parents and try to find a solution that works for everyone.

Inclusive Language for Same-Sex Couples and Families

Your wedding invitation should celebrate your love and reflect the unique makeup of your families.

• Use inclusive language: Instead of "bride and groom," consider "Jane and Sarah" or "the happy couple."

• Acknowledge same-sex parents: If one or both of you have same-sex parents, be sure to acknowledge them appropriately. "Together with their mothers, Jane Smith and Sarah Brown…".

• Consider pronouns: Pay attention to pronouns. If one of you uses they/them pronouns, ensure your invitation reflects this.

The key is to create wording that is authentic, respectful, and celebrates your love story. Don’t be afraid to break from tradition and create something that truly reflects who you are as a couple. Your wedding invitation is a reflection of your love, so make it uniquely yours!

Essential Elements: What to Include on Your Wedding Invitation

Your wedding invitation journey involves more than just choosing pretty fonts and paper. It’s about navigating relationships, honoring traditions, and, most importantly, reflecting you as a couple. Let’s break down the core information you absolutely need to include so your guests can celebrate with you, stress-free.

The Foundation: Names, Date, Time, and Venue

These are the cornerstones of your invitation. Accuracy and clarity are paramount.

• Names of the Couple: State your names clearly. Consider how formal you want to be. First and last names are traditional, but first names only can work for a more relaxed vibe.

• Date and Time: Double, triple, and quadruple-check these! Write out the date fully (e.g., Saturday, June 3, 2024) for a touch of elegance. Include "a.m." or "p.m." for the time to avoid any confusion.

• Wedding Venue: Include the full name of the venue and its address. This helps guests easily find the location and plan their travel.

RSVP Clarity: Make it Easy for Your Guests

Your RSVP process needs to be crystal clear. The easier you make it for guests to respond, the more accurate your headcount will be.

• RSVP Deadline: Set a firm deadline. This gives you time to finalize arrangements with vendors. Make the deadline prominent on the invitation.

• Response Instructions: Tell guests exactly how to RSVP. Is it a mailed card? A website link? An email address? Include all necessary details.

  Pro Tip: Offer multiple RSVP options to cater to different preferences.

Guiding the Way: Directions and Transportation

Help your guests arrive on time and without getting lost.

• Clear Directions: If your venue is tricky to find, provide detailed directions in addition to the address.
  Consider mentioning nearby landmarks or cross streets.

• Transportation Details: Will you provide transportation between the ceremony and reception? Include information on shuttle schedules or parking options.

Destination Weddings: Extra Information

For destination weddings, guests need to know travel and lodging details.

• Accommodation Options: Suggest hotels near the venue. You can even negotiate group rates and include the booking information.

• Travel Information: Provide information on nearby airports and transportation options from the airport to the hotel or venue.

The Digital Hub: Your Wedding Website

Think of your wedding website as the central hub for all things wedding.

• Website Link: Include a clear and easy-to-read link to your wedding website on the invitation or a separate enclosure card.

  What to Include on Your Website: Guest accommodations, travel logistics, FAQs, your love story, registry information, and details about wedding events!

By carefully including these essential elements, you’ll ensure your guests have all the information they need to celebrate your special day with ease and joy.

The Finishing Touches: Envelopes, Addressing, and More

Your wedding invitation journey involves more than just choosing pretty fonts and paper. It’s about navigating relationships, honoring traditions, and, most importantly, reflecting you as a couple. Let’s break down the core information you absolutely need to include so your guests can celebrate with you.

The devil is in the details, as they say, and when it comes to wedding invitations, the finishing touches truly elevate the experience. From the humble envelope to the final postage stamp, each element contributes to the overall impression you’re creating. It shows how much you care about your guests and the experience you’re offering.

Choosing the Right Envelope: More Than Just a Container

The envelope is the first physical interaction your guests will have with your wedding. So it’s worthwhile to treat it with care.

Think of the envelope as the appetizer to the main course of your invitation. It sets the stage and hints at what’s to come. Choosing the right envelope involves considering color, texture, and size.

Consider matching the paper stock to the invitation. This will reinforce the overall theme. A heavier paper stock adds a touch of luxury. A thin, flimsy envelope might cheapen even the most beautifully designed invitation.

Don’t be afraid to explore different colors! A classic white or ivory is always elegant, but a subtle blush, grey, or even a deep jewel tone can add personality. Just ensure the color complements your invitation design and is easy to write on.

Addressing Etiquette: A Sign of Respect

Addressing wedding invitations is more than just slapping on a label. It’s a gesture of respect and consideration for each guest.

Use full names and proper titles. For married couples, "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith" is traditional. But if you know the wife prefers "Jane Smith," honor that preference.

For unmarried couples living together, you can list both names on the same line or on separate lines. It depends on the level of formality you’re aiming for.

For families with children, include the children’s names on the inner envelope. This clarifies who is invited. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference. If you’re not inviting children, you need to indicate it clearly on the outer envelope.

Always double-check your spelling! A misspelled name is a major faux pas.

The Art of Mailing: Timing and Presentation

Once your invitations are perfectly addressed, it’s time to send them off into the world. This step requires careful planning and attention to detail.

Timing is everything. Aim to mail your invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding. This gives guests ample time to RSVP and make travel arrangements.

For destination weddings, send invitations even earlier – around 3 months in advance.

Protect your investment. Consider hand-canceling your invitations at the post office to avoid harsh machine processing. This prevents bent corners and smudged ink.

Weigh one assembled invitation to determine the correct postage. An overweight invitation will be returned to you.

Stamps: A Chance to Personalize

Don’t underestimate the power of a postage stamp. It’s a tiny detail, but it can add a personal touch to your wedding invitation.

Choose stamps that reflect your personality and wedding style. Vintage stamps, floral designs, or even custom-printed stamps with your initials or a wedding motif are all great options.

Coordinating the stamp color with your invitation color scheme creates a cohesive look.

You can mix and match different stamps to create an interesting visual effect. But ensure they add up to the correct postage amount.

Think beyond the standard flag stamp. A little creativity can go a long way!

By paying attention to these finishing touches, you’re not just sending out invitations. You’re creating a memorable and meaningful experience for your guests, setting the stage for a wedding that truly reflects you and your love story.

When to Seek Professional Help: Stationery Designers and Calligraphers

Your wedding invitation journey involves more than just choosing pretty fonts and paper. It’s about navigating relationships, honoring traditions, and, most importantly, reflecting you as a couple. But what happens when DIY feels daunting, or your vision requires a level of expertise you don’t possess? That’s when enlisting the help of professionals becomes a game-changer.

The Allure of the Expert Touch

There’s a certain magic that stationery designers and calligraphers bring to the table. They are artists of the tangible, translating your ideas into exquisite paper creations that speak volumes. Knowing when to lean on their expertise can save you time, stress, and potentially costly mistakes.

When DIY Dreams Meet Reality Checks

Are you glued to Pinterest boards, overflowing with inspiration but unsure how to execute your vision? Or perhaps your wedding theme is intricate, requiring specialized printing techniques or custom artwork? These are telltale signs that a professional’s touch can elevate your invitations from lovely to unforgettable.

Consider these scenarios where professional help shines:

• Complex Designs: Intricate floral illustrations, custom monograms, or unusual layouts are best left to experienced designers.
• Specialty Printing: Letterpress, foil stamping, and engraving demand precision and specialized equipment, which professionals readily provide.
• Calligraphy Dreams: If you envision elegant, hand-lettered invitations, a skilled calligrapher will bring that vision to life with grace and artistry.
• Time Constraints: Juggling wedding planning with work and life can be overwhelming. Outsourcing invitation design and production frees up valuable time and reduces stress.

The Benefits of a Professional Partnership

Beyond technical expertise, stationery designers and calligraphers offer a wealth of knowledge and creative insight.

They can guide you through paper selections, font pairings, and wording options, ensuring your invitations are not only beautiful but also perfectly suited to your wedding style and budget.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Professionals can also help you avoid common DIY mistakes, such as:

• Poor Paper Quality: Using inexpensive paper can cheapen the overall look and feel of your invitations.
• Illegible Fonts: Choosing fonts that are too decorative or difficult to read can frustrate your guests.
• Wording Blunders: Incorrect wording or etiquette gaffes can create confusion and embarrassment.

The Investment Factor

While hiring professionals involves an investment, consider it an investment in peace of mind and a tangible representation of your special day. Beautiful, professionally crafted invitations set the tone for your wedding and become cherished keepsakes for your guests.

Remember: your wedding invitations are more than just pieces of paper; they’re the opening chapter of your wedding story. Partnering with a stationery designer or calligrapher ensures that chapter is written with elegance, artistry, and a touch of magic.

So, as you embark on this exciting chapter, remember that your together with our families wedding invitation is more than just a piece of paper; it’s the first impression of your big day! Have fun exploring the different designs, personalizing them to reflect you, and know that whatever you choose, it’ll be perfect because it’s you. Happy planning!