Think about what your guests need to know to get to the ceremony and reception! Try putting yourself in the shoes of a guest ... Would you want a map to the church? Would you want to know how to RSVP?

Here's a basic list of things you should consider including:
- Wedding Date
- Ceremony Start Time
- Wedding Location & Address
- Reception Location
- Map to Wedding and Reception Locations
- RSVP Information

Invitation Etiquette
Wording
Standard wedding invitation wording is easy enough - you can find hundreds of samples on the internet, in your local stationary store, and in wedding books. The wording can get tricky in blended families and for non-traditional weddings!

Here are some samples to get you started
(click on the link to view):

Standard Formal Invitation
Bride and Groom Hosted Wedding

Invitation Considerations
* Never assume you know how much the postage will be - take an invitation to the post office and have it weighed.

* All invitations should be mailed at the same time to avoid hurt feelings.

* Mail invitations four to six weeks before the event to ensure your guests have time to reply.

* Exception: If you have the majority of your family coming from out of town and most of your local friends are in town, you might consider two mailings. Mail earlier to your out of town guests to allow them time to plan the trip, then send your local invitations the typical 4-6 week prior.

Guest Etiquette
RSVP promptly and according to the instructions on the invitation, then live up to your RSVP.

Since most receptions are a cost per head or table, once the final count is given (typically a few days before the event) the cost is set. This means the host will pay for food and drink even if you decide not to attend at the last minute! If you show up after declining the invitation, there may not be enough food. While you may think this is no problem, the bride and/or the host will probably feel guilty for not accounting for you.

Finally, if your children are not explicitly invited, please do not bring them to the wedding. You are likely to cost the host of the reception an average of $20-$100 extra, especially if a full meal is served. Most families and couples are on tight wedding budgets - imagine the additional cost if all the guests brought their uninvited children!