Typically the brides parents would issue the invitations, because traditionally they would host their daughters wedding. However these days, more and more couples are paying for their own weddings or the costs are split between the families of the bride and groom.

The reasoning behind couples paying for their own wedding is fair and understandable. Todays couples are more financially able to cover the cost than in the 1970s. No longer does the bride live at home, being taken care of by her parents, until the day she marries prince charming. Women take care of themselves and are now in financial position to contribute to their grand day.

Usually, wedding invitations will suggest who is considered the host. The host is the person (s) issuing the invitation. Although, it is not incorrect to use the traditional style when the couple is covering the entire cost of the wedding; some wish to use this style out of respect for their parents and tradition. Contemporary wording is also in vogue, so dont be afraid to consider it as well. You just might like something different than the traditional wording.

Wedding Invitation Wording

Traditional style used when the brides parents are hosting:

Mr. and Mrs. William Lane

request the honour of your presence

at the marriage of their daughter

Stephanie Denise

to

Mr. Joseph Norway

etc.

When the brides parents are hosting and the grooms parents are included:

Mr. and Mrs. James Walker

request the honour of your presence

at the marriage of their daughter

Cheryl Rae Walker

to

Mr. Timothy Earle Jones

son of Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Jones

etc.

When both parents are hosting:

Mr. and Mrs. James Walker

and

Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Jones

request the honour of your presence

at the marriage of

Cheryl Rae Walker

to

Mr. Timothy Earle Jones

etc.