Is It Customary to Invite Your Wedding Party?

The answer to whether it is customary to invite your wedding party can vary depending on the context and specific details of the event. Here, we will explore the etiquette and practical reasons for including your wedding party in the invitation process.

Why You Should Invite Your Wedding Party

Whether you are planning a large, traditional wedding or a more intimate elopement, it is generally customary to extend invitations to your wedding party for several practical and sentimental reasons:

Precise Guest Count

The primary reason to include your wedding party in the invitation process is to ensure an accurate headcount for the event. Accurate headcounts are crucial for logistics, such as seating arrangements, catering, and accommodations. Inviting your wedding party ensures you know the full number of guests, making it easier to plan accordingly.

Official Acknowledgment and Honor

Wedding parties play a significant role in the wedding ceremony and reception, often serving as pageboys, bridesmaids, and groomsmen. By including them in the invitation process, you recognize and honor their contributions. It is customary to invite the members of your wedding party as a sign of appreciation for their support.

Practical Planning

Mailing wedding invitations to your wedding party allows them to RSVP for themselves and, if applicable, include guests they will bring. This helps to streamline the RSVP process and ensures that everyone is aware of the event details.

Customary Practices for Different Venues

In many cases, it is also customary to invite your wedding party to various venues, including international destinations such as Bora Bora. For example, Bora Bora weddings often require an accurate headcount for the destination, making it essential to invite the wedding party first and have them confirm attendance.

Practical Steps for Inviting Your Wedding Party

Here are some practical steps for inviting your wedding party and managing the RSVP process:

Include Your Wedding Party in the Initial Mailing: Send your initial wedding invitations to the wedding party members, along with a separate RSVP card if necessary. This ensures they have the information and can respond promptly. Follow Up with a Reminder: Send a follow-up notice reminding the wedding party of the RSVP deadline and the importance of responding. This can be done via email, phone call, or text. Regular Updates: Keep the wedding party informed of any changes or developments in the wedding plans. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and feels included in the process. Confirm Attendance: Confirm the attendance of each member of your wedding party to have a complete headcount. This can be done through direct communication or via RSVP responses.

Conclusion

In summary, it is indeed customary to invite your wedding party, especially for large and formal events. By including them in the invitation process, you can ensure accurate headcounts, honor their contributions, and make the planning and execution of your wedding smoother. Whether you are planning an intimate elopement or a grand celebration, consider the benefits of inviting your wedding party and follow these practical steps to make the process seamless.