How to Word Evening Wedding Invitations

Clear wedding invitation wording for evening guests, with examples you can copy and adapt to suit your style.

If you’re inviting guests to your evening wedding reception only, your invitation wording needs to make that clear while still sounding warm and welcoming. Unlike all-day invites, evening invitations are typically shorter and focus on the celebration rather than the ceremony.

What Are Evening Wedding Invitations?

Evening wedding invitations are sent to guests invited only to the evening reception, typically after the ceremony and wedding breakfast. They usually focus on the reception time, venue, RSVP details, and celebration information without repeating day ceremony wording.

What to Include

  • Names of the couple
  • Date and time of the evening reception
  • Venue name and address
  • Dress code (optional)
  • RSVP details

Evening Invitation Wording Examples

Traditional wording

Mr and Mrs Thomas Smith request the pleasure of your company at the evening reception to celebrate the marriage of Emily & James on Saturday 14th September 2024 at 7:30pm at The Old Rectory, Kent.

Modern celebration wording

Join us for drinks, dancing and celebration! Emily & James, Saturday 14.09.2024 at 7:30pm, The Old Rectory, Kent.

Relaxed evening wording

Please join us for an evening wedding reception with food, drinks and dancing from 7.30pm.

Wedding invite wording for evening guests

Emily & James would love for you to join them at their evening celebration — 7:30pm, The Old Rectory, Kent.

Simple evening wedding invitation wording

You’re invited to the wedding reception at 7:30pm after the ceremony — Emily & James.

Should You Mention the Ceremony?

No – if someone is invited only to the evening, it’s best to avoid referencing the ceremony. Keep the tone inclusive and celebratory.

Next Steps

Explore our full range of wedding invitations, including single card designs and concertina invitations ideal for evening formats. You can personalise your wording using our free design tool or leave it to us. We also offer save the date cards if you haven't finalised your details just yet.

Evening Wedding Invitation Wording FAQs

Do evening wedding invitations mention the ceremony?

Evening wedding invitations usually omit ceremony details if the guest is not invited to the ceremony itself. Focus on time, location and celebration details. 

What details should you include on evening wedding invitations?

Include the couple’s names, date, time, venue address, and RSVP information — dress code optional. 

When should evening invitations be sent?

Send evening invitations at the same time as your daytime invites so guests know their schedule clearly.

 

Guests enjoying an outdoor evening wedding reception under string lights, with music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere surrounded by trees.
Back to blog

Wedding Invitations to Match Your Wording

View all

Once you’ve chosen your wording, selecting an invitation design that complements your tone helps create a cohesive first impression for your guests.

Related Wedding Invitation Guides

View all
1 4
View all

Wedding Invitation Wording FAQs

  • What should wedding invitation wording include?

    Wedding invitation wording should clearly include the names of the couple, the date and time of the wedding, the ceremony venue, and reception details if they are taking place at the same or a different location. Many couples also include RSVP instructions and dress code information to avoid confusion for guests.

  • How do you word wedding invitations politely?

    Polite wedding invitation wording focuses on warmth and clarity. Traditional wording often uses formal language and third person phrasing, while modern invitations tend to be more relaxed and conversational. The key is to choose wording that reflects your personality while remaining respectful and easy to understand.

  • Should wedding invitations be formal or informal?

    Wedding invitations can be formal or informal depending on the style of your celebration. Formal wording suits traditional ceremonies and classic venues, while informal wording works well for relaxed weddings, countryside celebrations or modern venues. Consistency between your wording and overall wedding style is more important than formality itself.

  • How do you word wedding invitations for evening guests?

    Evening wedding invitation wording should clearly state that guests are invited to join the celebration later in the day. It is important to include the time, venue and any relevant details, while gently acknowledging that the ceremony has already taken place earlier. Clear wording helps avoid confusion and ensures guests feel welcome.

  • Do day and evening wedding invitations need different wording?

    Yes, day and evening wedding invitations should use different wording. Day invitations include ceremony details and full timings, while evening invitations focus on the celebration that follows. Using tailored wording for each group ensures guests understand exactly which part of the day they are invited to attend.

  • How do you word wedding invitations without mentioning gifts?

    If you prefer not to mention gifts on your wedding invitations, it is perfectly acceptable to leave this information out entirely. Many couples choose to share gift preferences on a separate wedding website or simply rely on guests to decide for themselves. Wedding invitation wording should focus on the celebration rather than expectations.

  • Can wedding invitation wording be personalised?

    Wedding invitation wording can absolutely be personalised. Many couples choose to adjust phrasing to reflect their relationship, cultural traditions or family involvement. Personalised wording helps your invitations feel more meaningful and sets the tone for your wedding day from the very first impression.

  • When should wedding invitations be sent?

    In the UK, wedding invitations are typically sent 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding date. If you have already sent save the dates, sending invitations closer to the 8 week mark is usually sufficient. Clear wording ensures guests can respond confidently within your chosen timeframe.

Designed Wedding Invitations, Made Personal

At TavernCreative, we design wedding invitations that balance beautiful design with thoughtful wording. Many couples choose to personalise their invitations to reflect their style and the tone of their day.

Written by TavernCreative – UK Wedding Stationery Designers