When it comes to wedding expenses, it’s common for different families to contribute to different parts of the wedding budget. In some cases, the bride’s parents may take on the majority of the wedding costs, including the wedding invitations.
In this article, we’ll discuss the various considerations that come with wedding invitations when the bride’s parents are paying.
Deciding Who to Invite
When the bride’s parents are paying for the wedding, they may have a say in who is invited. It’s important to have an open and honest discussion with them about their expectations and desires for the guest list. They may have certain family members or friends they want to invite, and it’s important to take their wishes into consideration.
Number of guests to invite
The number of guests to invite will depend on a variety of factors, including the budget, the venue, and the couple’s preferences. When the bride’s parents are paying, they may have a limit on the number of guests they are willing to pay for. Remember to have a realistic estimate of the number of guests and to communicate openly with the bride’s parents about any concerns.
How to prioritize the guest list
When creating a guest list, you should prioritize close family and friends. The bride’s parents may have certain family members or friends they want to invite, and the couple should also have a say in who is invited. Communicate openly and respectfully about any disagreements or concerns.
Design and Wording
When it comes to design options, the sky is the limit. However, if the bride’s parents are paying for the wedding, it’s important to take their tastes and preferences into account when selecting a design. They may prefer a more traditional, formal style, or they may be open to more modern and creative designs. It’s also important to consider the overall theme and style of the wedding when choosing the design elements for the invitations.
Some popular design options include:
- Classic and elegant designs with simple typography and minimal embellishments
- Floral and botanical designs that reflect the wedding’s natural setting or theme
- Bold and modern designs with bright colors and unique typography
- Custom illustrations or photographs that reflect the couple’s personality or interests
Wording Options for Invitations
When it comes to wording, there are a few key elements to include on the invitation. These include the names of the hosts, the names of the bride and groom, the date and time of the wedding, and the location of the ceremony and reception. When the bride’s parents are paying for the wedding, they are typically listed as the hosts on the invitation. Some popular wording options include:
- Mr. and Mrs. John Smith request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Jane, to John Doe…
- Mr. and Mrs. John Smith invite you to join them as they celebrate the wedding of their daughter, Jane, to John Doe…
- Together with their families, Jane Smith and John Doe request the honor of your presence at their wedding…
How to Address the Bride’s Parents on the Invitation
When the bride’s parents are listed as hosts on the invitation, you have to address them properly. Traditionally, the father’s name is listed first, followed by the mother’s name. For example:
- Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
- Dr. John Smith and Mrs. Jane Smith
In some cases, the bride’s parents may be divorced or have different last names. In these cases, it’s appropriate to list them separately on the invitation. For example:
- Mr. John Smith and Mrs. Jane Brown
- Dr. John Smith and Ms. Jane Brown
RSVP and Guest Information
The RSVP is an essential part of the wedding invitation. It lets you know who is attending and who isn’t, so you can plan accordingly. When requesting RSVPs, be sure to include the following:
- Deadline: Set a deadline for when guests need to RSVP by. This will help you finalize your guest list and make any necessary arrangements.
- Response card: Provide guests with a response card that they can mail back to you. Be sure to include a stamped and addressed envelope for their convenience.
- RSVP options: Give guests multiple options for how they can RSVP, such as by mail, phone, or email. This will make it easier for them to respond in a way that is most convenient for them.
Providing Guest Information
In addition to requesting RSVPs, it’s important to provide your guests with all of the necessary information they need to attend your wedding. Here are some tips for providing guest information on your wedding invitations:
- Accommodations: If you have guests coming in from out of town, provide them with information about nearby accommodations. This can include hotel recommendations, transportation options, and any other details they need to know.
- Dress code: Be sure to include information about the dress code for your wedding. This will help guests know what to wear and feel comfortable at your event.
- Directions: Provide guests with detailed directions to your wedding venue. This can include maps, parking information, and any other details they need to know.
Handling Special Requests or Accommodations
Finally, remember to handle any special requests or accommodations that guests may have. This can include dietary restrictions, accessibility needs, or any other requests that you need to be aware of. Be sure to provide guests with a way to communicate these requests to you, such as by including a line on the RSVP card where they can note any special needs.
Is it still common for brides family to pay for wedding?
While it was more common in the past for the bride’s family to pay for the wedding, nowadays, it is becoming increasingly common for both families, or even the couple themselves, to contribute to the costs of the wedding.
Many couples are opting for more personalized and intimate celebrations, which may be more affordable than traditional large-scale weddings. Ultimately, who pays for the wedding is a personal decision that varies from couple to couple and family to family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wedding invitations are an important part of the wedding planning process, and it’s crucial to make sure that they reflect the couple’s preferences and the family’s financial circumstances.
Whether you decide to work with a professional designer or create your invitations yourself, taking the time to plan and prepare your wedding invitations can help ensure that your special day is everything you dreamed of and more.
