Traditional vs. Casual Wedding Invitation Wording: Pros, Cons + Examples
Your wedding invitation wording sets the tone for your day just as much as the design itself. Is your celebration a black-tie affair dripping in formality, or a laid-back dinner party with a side of dancing? The way you phrase your invitation tells guests what to expect before they even look at the dress code.
Not sure whether to go traditional or casual with your wording? Let’s break down the pros, cons, and real examples of each so you can find the style that feels right for your wedding.
Traditional Wording
What it looks like:
Traditional invitations typically follow etiquette “rules” that have been around for centuries. They often spell out everything in full (no abbreviations), use third-person phrasing, and sometimes include the hosts’ names (often the couple’s parents).
Example:
Mr. and Mrs. James Anderson request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Charlotte Marie, to Jonathan David Miller, Saturday, the tenth of October, two thousand twenty-six, at half past five o’clock in the evening…
Pros:
Instantly communicates a formal, classic celebration
Timeless wording that many guests will recognize
Works beautifully with traditional or luxury invitation styles
Cons:
Can feel stiff or outdated for modern couples
Often longer and more wordy
Leaves less room for personality
Casual Wording
What it looks like:
Casual invitations are more relaxed, concise, and conversational. They often skip titles, abbreviations are fair game, and the tone is warm and approachable.
Example:
Join us for the wedding of Charlotte Anderson & Jonathan Miller, Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 5:30 PM…
Pros:
Feels modern, approachable, and “you”
Shorter and easier to read at a glance
Great fit for relaxed, creative, or intimate celebrations
Cons:
Might not match a very formal or traditional event
Can feel too casual if your wedding has a dressier tone
Less guidance from etiquette “rules” means more decision-making
A Middle Ground: Semi-Formal Wording
If neither extreme feels quite right, you can always strike a balance. Semi-formal wording blends timeless structure with modern ease.
Example:
Together with their families, Charlotte Anderson and Jonathan Miller invite you to celebrate their marriage on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 5:30 in the evening…
This approach is polished but not stiff, and works well for couples who want something timeless with a personal touch.
There’s no one “correct” way to word your wedding invitations, only what feels authentic to you and matches the tone of your celebration. Whether you choose traditional, casual, or somewhere in between, the right wording paired with thoughtful design will set the perfect first impression for your day.
If you’re still deciding, my semi-custom wedding suites make it easy to plug in your preferred wording — traditional, casual, or a mix — so your invitations feel just right for your style and story.
