About Esther Vardy Expertise Can answer questions on: event planning/coordination, tips, hints, party, special occassions, wedding, etiquette, host, social, gatherings, decor, birthday, anniversary, holidays, entertainment, invitations, audio visual, travel, accomodation, budget
Experience One part loving wife and mother of two, one part event coordinator extraordinaire. After falling into event planning five years ago in her position with the Department of Canadian Heritage (PCH), Esther understands what it means to find your calling. She has come to realize that through events she has the privilege of touching people’s lives and helping them create lasting memories. One of her earliest forays into event coordination was pulling of f her own wedding in only three weeks! From that one special event she knew she had found something she loved. After graduating from business, Esther began her career with PCH planning national events under the Canada Volunteerism Initiative. Since her start she has obtained her diplomas in Interior Decorating, and Convention and Meeting Management, from Algonquin College; leading to the launch of Vardy Events in 2004.
Esther brings a passion to everything she does, and takes pride in her work with special events.
Question What does "black tie Invited" on a wedding invitation mean? Is it optional or required?
Thank you
Answer Hi Sue,
Invitations to special events and formal affairs should indicate what type of attire expected. Problem is not everyone knows what it means and throughout history they have all taken on different meanings.
"Black Tie" was orginally to indicate to the men attending what they should wear. The woman would dress as elgantly as possible, sequins, jewels, tiara's even! As long as its fancy smanchy you are good to go. Here are the different ways to ask for "dressed up" in the wordings of invitations.
If the Invitation says "Black Tie" it is generally accepted that "Black Tie" requires formal attire. Take advantage and spiff up your man to the nines to truly look and feel his very best in a tuxedo. Today, "Black Tie" means formal attire, not specifically to wear a black tie.
If the Invitation says "White Tie" or "Full Dress"
He can step into the occasion looking dashing and proper in a traditional tailcoat. Wearing a white wing collar shirt, a white pique vest, white tie, and black trousers accented by the formal satin stripe. Complete his outfit with patent shoes.
If the Invitation says "Black Tie Preferred"
Indicates that the host prefers guests to wear formal evening attire to the special occasion. Black Tuxedo, White Dinner Jacket (mid-April through Labor Day) or a dark contemporary style tuxedo are acceptable (no Tailcoats). Non-formal Dress Suits are also acceptable, but not preferred by the host.
If the Invitation says "Black Tie Optional"
Is not as strong a statement for formal attire as "Black Tie" or "Black Tie Preferred," yet formal dress is appropriate and acceptable. Styles may include Black Tuxedo, White Dinner Jacket (mid-April through Labor Day) or a dark contemporary style Tuxedo (no Tailcoats).
If the Invitation says "Black Tie Invited"
It is a phrase appearing more frequently than "preferred" or "optional." It means that gentlemen attending are welcome to dress in formal attire if they would like, but it is not required. Styles for these affairs are the same as for "Black Tie Optional."
