What To Write On The Front Of Your Wedding Card: A Guide to Perfect Wording

Choosing the right words for the front of your wedding card might seem like a small detail, but it’s actually a critical first impression. It sets the tone for your celebration and gives guests their first glimpse into the joy you’re about to share. Getting it right can be surprisingly complex, balancing formality, personality, and the essence of your relationship. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your wedding card front truly memorable.

1. Understanding the Significance of the Wedding Card Front

Before you even start brainstorming, it’s important to understand why the front of the card matters so much. It’s not just an address label; it’s a statement. It’s the first thing guests see, and it immediately communicates the style and formality of your wedding. A carefully chosen message can convey your personalities, the vibe of your event, and the depth of your commitment to each other.

2. Deciding on the Right Level of Formality: Formal vs. Informal

The level of formality you choose should align with the overall style of your wedding. A black-tie affair calls for more traditional wording, while a casual beach wedding might embrace a more relaxed approach.

2.1 Formal Wedding Card Wording

For a formal wedding, it’s traditional to include the hosts’ names (if the parents are hosting), followed by the request to attend, and the couple’s names. For example:

• “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter Emily Rose Smith to Mr. David Michael Jones”

This style emphasizes tradition and respect. Clarity and precision are key.

2.2 Informal Wedding Card Wording

Informal cards allow for more creativity and personalization. You can use your first names, nicknames, or a sweet phrase that reflects your relationship. Examples include:

• “Together with their families, Sarah and Michael invite you to celebrate their wedding”

or

• “We’re getting married! Join us as Jessica and Tom say ‘I do’”

This approach is perfect for couples who want to convey a more relaxed and intimate feel.

3. The Couple’s Names: Styles and Formats

The way you present your names is crucial. Consider these common styles:

• Full Names: Use full names for a formal feel.
• First Names Only: Suitable for informal weddings.
• Nicknames: Only use nicknames if they are widely known and accepted by your guests.
• Order of Names: Traditionally, the bride’s name appears first, but modern couples often list them alphabetically or in any order they choose.

Consistency is key. Make sure your names are consistent across all wedding stationery.

4. Adding a Special Phrase or Quote: Making it Personal

Beyond your names, consider adding a special phrase or quote that reflects your love story. This can be a short poem, a meaningful lyric from a song, or a simple expression of your happiness.

• A quote about love: “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” - 1 Corinthians 13:13
• A short poem: “Two hearts, one love, forever intertwined.”
• A simple statement of joy: “Celebrating Our Forever.”

This will add a personal touch that will make your wedding card truly unique.

5. Addressing Guests: Different Approaches

How you address your guests on the front of the card depends on your relationship with them and the overall style of your wedding.

• Formal: Use titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr.) and full names.
• Semi-formal: Use titles and first names, particularly for close friends and family.
• Informal: Use first names only.

Always consider your guests’ preferences. If you’re unsure, err on the side of formality.

6. Font Choices and Design: Complementing Your Wording

The font and design of your wedding card are just as important as the wording. Choose a font that complements your overall wedding theme and the tone you want to convey.

• Elegant fonts: Calligraphy, script, and serif fonts are ideal for formal weddings.
• Modern fonts: Sans-serif fonts and clean designs work well for contemporary weddings.
• Consider the color and paper stock: These can also enhance the overall aesthetic.

Ensure your chosen font is easy to read.

7. Addressing Different Scenarios: Specific Examples

Let’s look at some examples to suit different situations:

• Traditional Wedding (Parents Hosting): “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Emily Rose Smith, to Mr. David Michael Jones.”
• Modern Wedding (Couple Hosting): “Together with their families, Emily and David invite you to celebrate their wedding.”
• Informal Wedding: “Jessica & Tom are getting married! Join us as we celebrate!”
• Same-Sex Wedding: “Together with their families, Sarah and Jessica invite you to celebrate their wedding.” (Adjust names and wording as necessary.)
• Destination Wedding: “Please join us as we celebrate the marriage of Emily and David in [Location].”

These examples can serve as starting points, which you can modify to fit your unique situation.

8. Proofreading and Editing: The Importance of Accuracy

Always proofread your wedding card wording multiple times. Errors can be embarrassing and detract from the overall impression. Ask a trusted friend or family member to review your wording as well. Check for:

• Spelling errors
• Grammatical errors
• Incorrect dates or times
• Inconsistencies in names or titles

Accuracy is paramount.

9. Printing and Production: Ensuring Quality

Once you’re happy with the wording, choose a reputable printer. Consider the following:

• Paper quality: Opt for high-quality paper stock.
• Printing method: Letterpress, engraving, and digital printing are all options.
• Envelopes: Choose envelopes that match your card design.

Allow ample time for printing and delivery.

10. Avoiding Common Mistakes: Tips for Success

Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Rushing the process: Take your time and don’t feel pressured to finalize your wording quickly.
• Using overly complex language: Keep it simple and easy to understand.
• Forgetting to proofread: Double-check everything!
• Ignoring your personal style: Make sure your wording reflects your personalities and relationship.
• Neglecting guest preferences: Consider the comfort and familiarity of your guests.

Careful planning will make the process smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to handle parent names if they are divorced?

You have several options: You can list both parents (e.g., “Mr. and Mrs. Smith, and Mr. Jones”), list the parent(s) who are hosting, or simply use the couple’s names if they are hosting the wedding. Choose the option that best reflects the family dynamics and your wishes.

How do I incorporate a theme into the card’s front?

Subtlety is key. You can use a phrase, quote, or font that hints at your theme. For example, if you’re having a rustic wedding, you could use a script font and a phrase like “Celebrating love in the country.” Avoid being overly literal.

Is it okay to include the wedding website on the front of the card?

Generally, it’s not recommended. The front of the card is for the invitation and the couple’s names. The wedding website information is better placed on the insert card, as the front should remain clean and focused.

What if I’m unsure about the level of formality?

If you’re unsure, it’s usually safe to err on the side of slightly more formal wording, especially if you are unsure of your guests’ preferences. It’s better to be a bit too formal than too casual.

Can I use emojis on the front of the card?

While emojis are acceptable in modern communication, they are typically best avoided on the front of a wedding invitation. They can make the card appear too casual, which may not be the impression you are trying to create. Save the emojis for your personal correspondence.

Conclusion

Writing the perfect message on the front of your wedding card is a significant step in setting the tone for your big day. By understanding the significance of this first impression, choosing the right level of formality, personalizing your wording, and paying attention to the design and production, you can create a card that truly reflects your love story. Remember to proofread carefully and prioritize clarity and accuracy. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can craft a wedding card front that is both beautiful and meaningful, setting the stage for a celebration that your guests will cherish.