What to Say? Small Wedding Invitation Wording Tips and Examples

Planning a micro wedding brings up a lot of questions! When I was planning my wedding I felt like every decision I had to make left me wondering if there was something different I was supposed to be doing since I was having a small wedding. Invitation wording for my small wedding was no different.

Not long ago I was staring at a blank screen wondering exactly what I should include on mine! How do I tell guests that kids aren't allowed? Should we include the location or just put that on the website? How much information is too much information? Will anyone even read these?

Spoiler alert! It's not that complicated, but with all the other decisions you're making right now I get how it can feel overwhelming. So, I've included a few examples of what to say for your small wedding invitation wording plus answers to all the questions above, and even one thing I wish I would've done differently.

If you're still working on cutting down your guest list to the perfect crew, be sure to check out these other resources for small wedding guest lists:

• How to Narrow Down Your Wedding Guest List
• How to Decide Who to Invite To Your Wedding (coming soon!)

I've also linked one of my favorite wedding invitation wording tools at the end just in case you're looking for a little more assistance so be sure to check that out!

Small Wedding Invitation Wording Ideas

What to Include on Your Small Wedding Invitations

This question comes up a lot in our Facebook community. Generally speaking, you'll include all the same things on your wedding invitation for a small wedding that you would for a more traditional-sized wedding. The only other thing I would recommend is using the invite as an opportunity to share your decision to have a micro wedding (or elopement) with only your closest friends and family.

"We're excited to share this special day with an intimate group of our closest friends and family".

One piece of advice I always give to small wedding couples is to talk about your decision to have a small wedding early in the process. Your invitations and save-the-dates are a great place to do that.

What to include:

• Your names
• Date/Time
• Location
• Registry information
• Special notes (i.e., we love your littles, but we've chosen to have an adults-only event)

Intimate Wedding Invitation Wording

An intimate wedding, whether it’s a micro wedding or an elopement, calls for invitation wording that matches the personal and heartfelt nature of the day. There's nothing particularly unique about the wording for a small wedding invitation, but as I noted above, you may choose to include wording that speaks to your decision to have a small wedding.

Here are some examples of intimate wedding invitation wording:

• Example 1: “It’s not about the size of the guest list, but the love in the room. We’re thrilled to invite you to our intimate wedding celebration on [Date]. [Location Address] Dinner and dancing to follow.”
• Example 2: “With our closest family and friends, we’re excited to celebrate our love. [Your Names] invite you to join us for an intimate wedding ceremony and reception. Date: [Insert Date] Time: [Insert Time] Location: [Insert Address] RSVP at [Contact Information] by [RSVP Date].”
  

Reception or Ceremony Only Invitation Wording

Micro weddings and elopements sometimes inspire unique wedding formats and that includes inviting certain guests to one part of the wedding or another...or not. Some couples who elope or have a destination wedding choose to celebrate with a larger group later.

If you're just inviting guests to one part of your wedding, here are a few ideas for reception invitations or an invitation to the ceremony.

Wedding invitation wording for ceremony only:

• Example 1: “We’re keeping it simple and sweet—just like us! Join us as we say ‘I do’ on [Date] at [Time]. [Location Address] Your presence would mean the world to us.”
• Example 2: “The best things in life are meant to be shared. We’d love for you to be there as we exchange our vows. [Your Names] will marry on [Date] at [Location]. Ceremony begins at [Time].”

For guests who are just invited to the reception:

• Example 1: “We said ‘I do’ and now it’s time to party! Join us for our wedding reception on [Date] at [Time]. [Location Address] Dinner, dancing, and celebrations await—we can’t wait to see you there!”
• Example 2: “We’re getting married! Now let’s celebrate. Please join us for an evening of love, laughter, and dancing at our wedding reception. Date: [Insert Date] Time: [Insert Time] Location: [Insert Address] RSVP by [RSVP Date].”

Informal Wedding Invitation Wording

When hosting a casual wedding, there’s no need to stick to formal traditions unless you want to. Casual invitation wording for your small wedding gives you the freedom to speak in a tone that feels authentic to you and your partner. This approach is perfect for couples who want to keep things light and fun while still ensuring their guests have all the essential details.

Here are some examples of informal invitation wording:

• Example 1: We’re getting hitched! Join us for a laid-back celebration filled with love, laughter, and good vibes. [Your Names] are saying ‘I do’ on [Date] at [Time]. [Location Address]
• Example 2: Love, laughter, and happily ever after! You’re invited to celebrate the wedding of [Your Names]. Date: [Insert Date] Time: [Insert Time] Place: [Insert Location Address]
• Example 3: We’re tying the knot and you’re invited to join the fun! [Your Names] are hosting an intimate celebration on [Date] at [Location].

Wedding RSVP Wording for Limited Guests

A perfectly curated small wedding guest list requires a bit of finesse and occassionally some tough decisions. Two ways we recommend cutting down your guest list is to host an adults-only wedding day or offer a plus-one only for those in established relationships or who you both know.

The RSVP wording is the perfect place to make clear exactly who is invited.

Example 1: We love your littles, but due to space limitations we've chosen to host an adults-only party for our big day.

Example 2: We've reserved one seat for you to join us for an intimate celebration with our closest friends and family.

More Tips for Small Wedding Invites

When crafting wedding invitation wording for a small guest list, keep these additional considerations in mind:

Addressing Plus-Ones

‍Be clear about whether guests can bring a plus-one. For example, “We have reserved one seat in your honor” sets the expectation clearly.

RSVP Details

Since the guest list is small, knowing who’s attending is crucial. Provide an easy way for guests to RSVP, such as a wedding website or an RSVP card.

Digital Invitations

For an even more casual or eco-friendly approach, consider using digital invitations or e-vites. These are perfect for small weddings and allow for instant RSVPs. My absolute favorite option for digital invites is Greenvelope.

Greenvelope not only offers a full suite of pre-designed wedding invitations, but it also offers engagement announcements, save the dates, thank you cards, and an RSVP tracker. Greenvelope strives to deliver the most elegant electronic invitation service by emulating the experience of opening a “traditional” printed invitation. Their service makes for a super seamless experience for both you and your guests. Check them out here.

My favorite feature?? The wording tool. Take the guesswork out of what to say, design, order and send your wedding invites in just a few easy steps! Check out the wording tool here.

Whether you’re planning a micro wedding, an intimate gathering, or a ceremony-only event, the right wording sets the tone for your day. By choosing relaxed wedding invitation wording that reflects your unique style, you can create a meaningful first impression for your guests. Remember, the beauty of small weddings lies in the personal touches, and your invitation is the perfect place to start.

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