How many invitations should be ordered?
This depends on the number of guests, but remember that many guests are couples who receive one invitation. 

What are the basic elements of an invitation?
The invitation should be factual and concise - say who, why, what, where and when.

What should be included in a wedding announcement?
Wedding announcements should always include the ceremony date and year, and city. The location of the ceremony is optional.

When should invitations be ordered and mailed?
Invitations need to be mailed six to eight weeks before the wedding - more if guests are farther away or if the event is on a holiday or holiday weekend. So, invitations should be ordered at least 4 months before the event to allow time for addressing.

Who should receive invitations?
Everyone on the guest list should receive an invitation through the mail, including parents of the groom, the wedding party, and clergy members or judge and spouses.²

What types of stationery are needed?
There are several types of stationery: ²

• The invitations asking guests to attend the ceremony or reception.
• The informal to be used for Thank You notes, written invitations or brief messages.
• You may also consider Save-the-Date announcements to inform people of the upcoming event.
• Another option is the wedding announcement, mailed to people who have not been invited to the wedding, but who you would like to inform them of the marriage.

Is it OK to print a wedding program?
Yes. Wedding programs help keep your guests informed about the members of the wedding party and their role in the ceremony.

Is there an alternative to using the husband's first name?
Invitations should be addressed in traditional form, i.e., Mr. & Mrs. John Smith. Exceptions include a wife who keeps her family name, or if she is a physician, e.g., Dr. Jane Smith.¹

How should you tell invited guests that children are not included?
Because it is not correct to print "Please do not bring children," word of mouth is best. Ask your friends and relatives to help spread the word. ³

Is it a good idea to use the Gift Registry or Wish List?
Gift registries are free services offered by online and offline stores. They allow the bride and groom to share in choosing the gifts they would like. They also offer a convenience to friends and relatives when deciding on appropriate gifts.

What is the correct form for a Bar or Bat Mitzvah invitation?
There is no official form and many forms are used today. For suggestions, email info@DavidGregory.biz.

Is calligraphy preferred over computer printed envelopes?
Handwritten or machine calligraphy is best for more formal or traditional events.

Where do you go to determine correct wording for invitations?
For correct formal usage, consult an etiquette book (such as those listed in the Sources of this website). Don't risk getting it almost right. Your word choice sets the tone of your event.²

How would you word a request to keep gifts small due the expense of shipping overseas?
According to etiquette expert, Cindi Grosso of the Charleston School of Etiquette, this request should only be made verbally. If it were included with any invitation or on an invitation, it might appear as though you were "expecting" a gift from those receiving the invitations, and of course, that is not why they are being invited.  In the verbal communication, you can present the circumstances, then let the "human" network spread the word.

Sources:
1. "Creative Weddings," Laurie Levin and Laura Golden Bellotti, The Penguin Group, 1994
2. "The Complete Wedding Planner," Edith Gilbert, Warner Books, 1991.
3. "Emily Post on Weddings," Elizabeth L. Post, Harper & Row, 1987.