Staring at a blank invitation, unsure how to phrase it? You are not alone. Wedding invitation wording follows a few simple conventions, and once you know them, filling in your own details takes minutes. This guide breaks down exactly what to include, then gives you 25+ copy-and-paste examples for formal, semi-formal, casual, and modern weddings.
When you are ready to design, you can drop any of this wording straight into a free wedding invitation template — no signup, no watermarks.
What to Include on a Wedding Invitation
Almost every wedding invitation covers the same six pieces of information, in roughly this order:
- The host line — who is inviting guests (traditionally the couple's parents, but often the couple themselves).
- The request line — the invitation itself ("request the pleasure of your company").
- The couple's names — usually the largest text on the invitation.
- The date and time — spelled out for formal invitations, or written plainly for casual ones.
- The venue — name and location of the ceremony.
- Reception details — whether a reception follows, and where.
RSVP details and dress code are often placed on a separate card, but for a single-card invitation you can add a small line at the bottom.
Formal Wedding Invitation Wording
Formal invitations spell out dates and times, and traditionally the bride's name comes first.
Example 1 — Hosted by the bride's parents
Mr. and Mrs. James Anderson request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter Emily Rose to Michael David Carter Saturday, the twelfth of June two thousand twenty-six at four o'clock in the afternoon The Rose Garden, Napa Valley
Example 2 — Hosted by the couple
Together with their families Emily Anderson and Michael Carter request the honour of your presence at their wedding Saturday, the twelfth of June, 2026 at half past four in the afternoon St. Mary's Church, Boston
Semi-Formal Wedding Invitation Wording
Semi-formal invitations soften the language while keeping an elegant tone.
Example 3
With joyful hearts, Emily and Michael invite you to celebrate their marriage Saturday, June 12, 2026 at 4:00 PM The Rose Garden, Napa Valley Dinner and dancing to follow
Example 4
Emily & Michael are getting married! Join us as we say "I do" June 12, 2026 · 4 in the afternoon 123 Blossom Lane, Napa Valley
Casual & Modern Wedding Invitation Wording
For relaxed, modern, or destination weddings, keep it warm and conversational.
Example 5
He asked. She said yes. Emily & Michael are tying the knot! Come celebrate with us Saturday, June 12 · 4 PM The Rose Garden · Reception to follow
Example 6
Let's party — we're getting married! Emily and Michael June 12, 2026 · Napa Valley Good food, great people, happy tears
Wording for Special Situations
- Deceased parent: "…daughter of Mr. James Anderson and the late Mrs. Sarah Anderson."
- Divorced or blended families: List each parent on a separate line, or use "Together with their families."
- Second marriage: The couple typically hosts; wording is identical to Examples 2 and 3.
- Adults-only reception: Add a gentle note like "We respectfully request no children at the reception."
Wording the RSVP Line
If you are including the reply request on the main invitation, keep it short:
- "Kindly reply by May 1st"
- "RSVP by May 1 · (555) 123-4567"
- "Please respond by the first of May at emily-and-michael.com"
Put Your Wording on a Design
Once you have chosen your wording, the fun part begins. Browse our free wedding invitation templates, replace the sample text with your details, and start designing in minutes. Every download is high-resolution and print-ready, with no watermark.