3 Wedding Invitation Etiquette Myths Debunked
Ask almost any engaged couple out there, and they'll likely tell you the invitation process seems like a daunting task. What traditions are necessary to follow, if any? Do you need to include certain elements? What in the world sort of printing method are you drawn to? It can prove to be an exhausting process, that's for sure! So today I am debunking three wedding invitation etiquette myths to help make the process just a bit easier! After all, this should be an exciting, fun time for you!
Myth
You need to include tissue paper in your invitation suites to separate the invitation from the other elements.
Truth
Tissue paper was originally used in wedding invitations so the ink wouldn't bleed onto the other enclosure cards included in the suite. With modern printers, ink bleeding and smudging is no longer an issue, so tissue paper is not needed.
Myth
An inner and an outer envelope are needed for your invitation suite.
Truth
At one time, an inner envelope was used so that, once removed, the inner envelope remained nice and clean even though the outer envelope may be bent and/or smudged from mailing. This isn't much of an issue anymore with the modern postal service machines, however, inner and outer envelopes are still occasionally used to specify exactly who is invited. For instance, if you are inviting an entire family, the outer envelope may read "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith" while the inner envelope may read "Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, Elizabeth and Mary". Alternatively, you may specify exactly who is invited on the outer envelope, completely eliminating the need for an inner envelope altogether. If you are having a very formal or traditional wedding, you may want to include both envelopes for tradition's sake.
Myth
You should follow traditional guidelines for wording used on your invitations.
Truth
While it is customary to keep your wording formal and/or traditional if you plan on having a more traditional celebration, it is not typically necessary to follow this tradition. Just like every other aspect of your wedding, your invitations should be personalized and representative of you and your significant other. Get creative here! One thing's for sure, though - just make absolute certain you've included the date, time, and where you'll be tying the knot.