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Invitations and stationery · Invitation wording

How do I start off an invitation?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12 · For parents

Short answer

Start your invitation with the hosts' names, such as "Together with their families" or "Mr and Mrs Smith request the pleasure of your company." Then introduce the couple's names.

The opening line of your invitation sets the tone and shows who is hosting. Traditionally, the bride's parents hosted, but today it can be the couple themselves, both sets of parents, or a mix. Common openings include: "Together with their families, [Name] and [Name] invite you..." or "[Name] and [Name], along with their parents, request the honour of your presence." If the couple is hosting, simply start with their names: "[Name] and [Name] invite you to celebrate their marriage." For a more formal wedding, use "Mr and Mrs [Surname] request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter [Name] to [Name]." For a modern or inclusive approach, avoid gendered assumptions and use both partners' names equally. You can also start with a short phrase like "Join us as we say 'I do'" or "With joy, we invite you..." The key is to make it clear who is inviting and who is getting married. Keep the opening line concise, then follow with the date, time, and venue.

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