A Little Lesson in Etiquette

Ok, here it is all you recently engaged couples open those ears for a little lesson in etiquette. Soon to be brides take some notes, we are going to discuss Wedding Invitation Etiquette. There are three common invitation faux pas to avoid when writing and wording your invitations.

"Mr. and Mrs. ... plus family"
You wedding is in most regards a family affair. But how are you supposed to send out invitations to a whole family and how can you word this eloquently? Answer: Include all the names of the family members. Everyone should be properly addressed when invited to your wedding and this should be stated clearly on the card. For those families who have children above the age of 18, there should be separate invitations sent, even if they still do live in their parents home.

"No Boxed Gifts"
Lets answer this one strait up. It is not good etiquette to discuss gifts ANYWHERE on the invitations. Any registry information should be kept off of the invite. A gift is just as it sounds "a gift" it should not be something that is mandatory, and people should not be obliged to give one (this is a whole other topic in etiquette). If you are concerned about this and still do prefer to have no boxed gifts, just money, speak with your bridal party and spread the information by word of mouth. If you are still going to set up a registry, consider having a wedding website to post this link, along with other important details of your wedding.

"No Children"
If you would prefer an adults only affair it is perfectly fine, that is your choice and is accepted. Now to avoid any confusion about this you must word your invitation to those you only want to attend. Traditionally only those named are invited, but one step further is to provide an RSVP card with the names already written on it. If an RSVP comes back with the children written on, a polite phone call will do to straighten out the misunderstanding. 

Well I hope all you brides to be have taken notes and understand a little bit more of proper wedding etiquette. Remember if you are unsure consult a professional, you do not want to be faced with an embarrassing situation!

-Jennifer