About Richelle Albrecht Expertise As a professional graphic designer specialising in wedding stationery, I can answer questions regarding invitation etiquette and wording, printing processes used in wedding stationery, and even provide info and resources for brides who wish to take a DIY approach.
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Past/Present clients references are available upon request.
Question Hi! I'm in need of some help for our wedding invitation wording. Here's the situation:
- My husband and I actually eloped and are renewing our vows on our 2nd anniversary. The wedding and reception will still be a traditional wedding and yes, everyone knows we're already married.
- My father is deceased, but I would still like to have him on the invite in some way.
- My husband and I are splitting the cost of the wedding with my mom, who is remarried.
- We would also like to include my husband's parents on the invite, who are still married.
- My husband is a Captain in the Air Force. I actually have that part figured out after reading some of your other answers.
Thanks for any help you can provide! It is much appreciated.
Melissa
Answer Hi Melissa,
What a lovely way to celebrate your anniversary.
For ease of reading, I'm going to address your points, and then give you a suggested wording at the end, encompassing all the issues.
Since everyone knows that you're already married, this is really a vow renewal and reception. A fine detail, but one that changes how your invitations will read slightly. Please note that if your renewal ceremony is not going to take place on consecrated ground (a church, a temple, a chapel), then you'll need to use "pleasure of your company" instead of "honor of your presence."
Your father can be included on the invitation, but only one way - immediately following your name. Although not technically correct according to strict etiquette, this is considered the most appropriate way to include a deceased parent.
Finances do not matter. There should be absolutely no indication of who is paying for anything in the wording of the invitation. Traditionally, the bride's parents are the hosts, and that's why their names appear at the top of the page. In this case, your mother and stepfather will be the hosts, and are therefore listed at the top of the invitation.
Below, you'll find my recommended wording for your situation:
Mr. and Mrs. Stepdad Lastname
request the honor of your presence/pleasure of your company
at a ceremony to celebrate
the reaffirmation of the wedding vows of
Mrs. Melissa Middle
daughter of the late Mr. Dad Lastname
and
Captain Husband Lastname
United States Air Force
son of Mr. and Mrs. His Dad Lastname
Day, the date of Month
at time o'clock
Location Name
City, State
and at a reception afterwards
Location Name
(City, State if different from the ceremony city/state)
It's not 100% correct according to strict etiquette rules, but the above definitely accomplishes all of the things you mentioned in your question. If you have further questions, or need to know anything else, please don't hesitate to ask.
