What is the correct timing and wording for invitations?

Invites should be sent at least six weeks before the day (you can send save-the –date cards earlier). The wording depends on the host:

1.If the bride’s parents are hosts: Mr. and Mrs. John Sinclair request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of their daughter, Caroline, to Mr. David Smith at St Paul’s Church, Ewell, on Saturday 20 August 2011 at 3o’clock, and afterwards at Trumble hall, Lymington, Hampshire.

2.If the bride’s parents are divorced but her mother did not remarry: Mr. John Sinclair and Mrs. Patrick Cook request…

3.If the bride’s parents are divorced but her mother did not remarry: Mr. John Sinclair and Mrs. Barbara Sinclair…

4.If the bride’s mother has remarried and is hosting the wedding with the bride’s stepfather: Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Cook request the pleasure of your company at the marriage of her daughter Caroline… (The bride’s surname can be added.)

5.If you’re hosting the event yourselves: David Smith and Caroline Sinclair request the pleasure of your company at their marriage at…

6.Guest’s names should be handwritten in full at the top of the invitation: Mr. & Mrs. John Smith. Or for a family: Mr. &Mrs. John Smith, Robert and Susan.

7.If you’d like the guests to wear evening dress, have ‘black tie’ printed at the bottom, with the RSVP address. If you include an RSVP card in an envelope, you’re more likely to get prompt replies.

8.Traditionally, guests would contact the bride’s mother to enquire about gifts. Many brides now include a note with the invitation saying: ‘A gift list has been placed at…’ with a website or phone number.