Weddings are a time of joy and unity, but navigating the complexities of family dynamics can feel like walking a tightrope. This is especially true when it comes to wording your wedding invitations and your parents are divorced. Add in remarriages and single statuses, and the situation might feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—with careful thought and a little etiquette, you can craft invitations that honor everyone while keeping the focus on your celebration.
At Blingvitations.com, we specialize in creating stunning, personalized wedding invitations that reflect the unique stories of our couples. Here’s our guide to help you handle these potentially tricky family dynamics with grace.
Understanding the Basics
Wedding invitations serve two primary purposes: they inform your guests of the event’s details and reflect the tone of the wedding. When dealing with divorced parents, the wording should emphasize respect and diplomacy. The key is to give equal recognition to each parent while avoiding any unnecessary awkwardness.
General Etiquette Tips
- List Parents Separately
When parents are divorced, their names are usually listed on separate lines to acknowledge them individually. - Include Stepparents If Desired
If one or both parents have remarried, you can include stepparents in a way that honors their role without overshadowing the biological parents. - Maintain Neutrality
Avoid phrases or formatting that might imply favoritism or strain. Keep the language formal and respectful. - Communicate in Advance
Speak with your parents ahead of time to ensure everyone is comfortable with the arrangement and avoid surprises.
Traditional Wording Examples
Scenario 1: Both Parents Divorced and Not Remarried
If the bride’s or groom’s parents are divorced and single, their names can appear on separate lines:
Mr. John Smith
and
Ms. Emily Johnson
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Mr. Michael James Brown
Scenario 2: One or Both Parents Remarried
If one parent has remarried, include the stepparent in a secondary role:
Mr. John Smith
and
Mrs. Emily Johnson Taylor
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Mr. Michael James Brown
If both parents are remarried:
Mr. and Mrs. John and Sarah Smith
and
Mr. and Mrs. Robert and Emily Taylor
request the honor of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Mr. Michael James Brown
Scenario 3: One Parent Hosting the Wedding
If only one parent is hosting the wedding, they take precedence in the wording:
Ms. Emily Johnson
requests the honor of your presence
at the marriage of her daughter
Jane Marie Smith
to
Mr. Michael James Brown
What About Informal Invitations?
For casual weddings, the wording can be relaxed, but the same principles of respect apply:
Together with their families,
Jane Marie Smith
and
Michael James Brown
invite you to celebrate their marriage...
A Final Thought
Ultimately, your wedding invitation should reflect your unique family and the love that brings you together. At Blingvitations.com, we understand the importance of capturing every detail perfectly. Our team is here to help you create invitations that honor all parents and stepparents in a way that feels inclusive and respectful. Browse our collection today, and let us bring your vision to life!
