Weddings are joyous occasions that call for formal announcements to inform friends and family of the union. Wedding announcement etiquette dictates the appropriate wording to convey the details of the event respectfully. These announcements serve as a keepsake for the couple and their loved ones, so it’s important to get them right.
The wording of a wedding announcement should be clear and concise, avoiding slang or casual language. Traditional formats have evolved over time, but certain elements remain essential. The announcement should include the names of the bride and groom, the date and location of the ceremony, and a brief statement expressing the couple’s joy or gratitude.
Formal Announcement Etiquette
Formal wedding announcements adhere to specific conventions to convey the solemnity of the occasion. They typically begin with the bride’s name, followed by her parents’ names. The groom’s name is then stated, along with the names of his parents. The announcement should include the date, time, and location of the ceremony, as well as a brief statement expressing the couple’s joy or gratitude.
The language used in formal announcements is often more elaborate and ornate than in informal ones, using phrases like “with great joy” or “to their eternal happiness.” The announcement may also include a line acknowledging the hosts of the reception or ceremony.
For example: “Miss Katherine Anne Smith, the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Robert Smith of Centerville, and Mr. William Thomas Jones, the son of Mr. and Mrs. David Michael Jones of Willow Creek, announce their marriage on Saturday, the fifteenth of June, two thousand twenty-three, at the Oakwood Chapel in Willow Creek. The reception will be held at the Willow Creek Country Club.”
Variations may include adding the bride’s and groom’s titles, such as “Dr.” or “Lieutenant,” or omitting the parents’ names if desired.
Sample Wording Ideas
Here are some sample wedding announcement etiquette wording ideas to help you create your own:
- Together with their families, Sarah and Michael announce their marriage on September 10th, 2023, at the Willow Creek Chapel.
- With great joy, the families of Emily and David announce their marriage, which took place on June 18th, 2023, at the Oakwood Manor.
- Mr. and Mrs. James and Susan Smith are pleased to announce the marriage of their daughter, Elizabeth, to Mr. William Jones, son of Mr. and Mrs. David and Martha Jones, on May 15th, 2023, at the Willow Creek Gardens.
- With love and gratitude, we announce the marriage of Katherine and Thomas, celebrated on August 12th, 2023, at the Willow Creek Chapel. The reception was hosted by their families at the Willow Creek Country Club.
- Dr. and Mrs. John and Anne Smith joyfully announce the marriage of their daughter, Emily, to Lieutenant David Jones, son of Mr. and Mrs. William and Mary Jones, on July 23rd, 2023, at the St. Mary’s Cathedral.
- Elizabeth and David are thrilled to announce their marriage, which took place on June 10th, 2023, at the Oakwood Manor. They are grateful for the love and support of their families and friends.
- Sarah and Michael are delighted to announce their marriage, celebrated on September 1st, 2023, at the Willow Creek Chapel. The reception was hosted by their families at the Willow Creek Country Club.
- With love and joy, we announce the marriage of our daughter, Emily, to Mr. David Jones, on June 18th, 2023, at the Oakwood Manor. The reception was hosted by their families at the Willow Creek Country Club.
- Together with their families, Emily and David announce their marriage, which took place on August 12th, 2023, at the Willow Creek Chapel. The reception was hosted by their families at the Willow Creek Country Club.
- Katherine and Thomas are overjoyed to announce their marriage, celebrated on May 15th, 2023, at the Oakwood Manor. They are grateful for the love and support of their families and friends.
Remember, your wedding announcement is a reflection of your unique style and personality. Use these examples as inspiration and customize the wording to create a heartfelt and memorable announcement that celebrates your special day.
May your wedding announcement be a cherished keepsake that conveys the joy and love of your union to all who receive it. Congratulations on your marriage and best wishes for a lifetime of happiness!
