Your Essential Guide To Mastering Wedding Announcement Etiquette

Wedding announcements are a special way to share the news of your recent or upcoming marriage with friends and family who were not able to attend the wedding. They can be sent through newspapers or through the mail. In this guide, we will explore the basics of wedding announcement etiquette, including where to send them and examples of wording.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the etiquette of wedding announcements is essential for sharing your marriage news with those who couldn’t attend.
• Wedding announcements can be sent through newspapers or mailed to friends and family.
• Newspaper announcements typically require specific information, while mailed announcements can be more personalized.
• Choose the right wording and format based on the formality of the wedding and personal preferences.
• Consider the list of recipients carefully to avoid inadvertently leaving someone out or causing discomfort.

Understanding Wedding Announcement Types and Timing

When it comes to wedding announcements, there are two types: newspaper announcements and mailed announcements. Understanding the differences between the two and the appropriate timing for sending them is essential in navigating wedding announcement etiquette.

Newspaper Wedding Announcements

Newspaper announcements are typically sent to local newspapers in both partners’ hometowns, as well as the town where the couple resides. These announcements provide a formal and official way to share the news of your marriage with the community. However, it is important to note that each newspaper may have different submission requirements and deadlines, so you should contact them directly to inquire about their specific guidelines.

Example of a newspaper announcement:

“Mr. and Mrs. James Welch are honored to announce the marriage of their daughter Ashley Michelle to Mr. Derek Scott Jamison Saturday, the twenty-sixth of September two thousand and twenty, Petaluma, California.”

Mailed Wedding Announcements

Mailed announcements, on the other hand, are typically sent to friends and family who were not invited to the wedding. These announcements allow you to share the joyous news of your marriage with loved ones who may not have been able to attend the ceremony. Mailed announcements can be handwritten or professionally printed, depending on your preferences and the formality of your wedding.

Example of a mailed announcement:

“Dear Aunt Susan, Derek and I are thrilled to announce that we are married! Our wedding was on September 26th at a small restaurant in Petaluma. We celebrated with just a few family and friends and are heading on a honeymoon to Hawaii in a few weeks. We can’t wait to celebrate with you over the holidays! Love, Ashley and Derek”

While it is ideal to send the announcements right after the wedding, they can be sent up to several months later. This flexibility allows you to take your time in preparing and sending the announcements, ensuring that they are thoughtful and well-executed.

Understanding the Proper Timing

Proper timing is crucial when it comes to wedding announcements. Sending them too soon may confuse recipients who may be expecting an invitation, while sending them too late may diminish their impact. Aim to send your announcements within a reasonable timeframe after the wedding, striking a balance between promptness and allowing yourself enough time to prepare them.

By understanding the types of wedding announcements and the appropriate timing for sending them, you can navigate the world of wedding announcement etiquette with confidence and ensure that your announcements reach your loved ones in a timely and meaningful manner.

Newspaper Wedding Announcements: Submission Requirements and Tips

Submitting a newspaper wedding announcement is a wonderful way to share your joyous news with the community. Each newspaper may have different submission requirements, so it’s important to do your research before sending in your announcement. Here are some general tips to keep in mind:

1. Contact the newspaper directly: Reach out to the newspaper or visit their website to find information about wedding announcement submissions. They will guide you through their specific requirements, such as word count limitations, formatting guidelines, and deadlines.
2. Include essential details: Make sure to provide all the necessary information for your announcement. This typically includes the full names of both partners, their ages, occupations, hometowns, parents’ names, the date and location of the ceremony, and information about the reception.
3. Share additional details: You can choose to include additional details in your announcement, such as a brief description of the wedding dress, bouquet, or honeymoon plans. However, make sure to check the newspaper’s guidelines as they may have restrictions on the length of the announcement.

By following these submission requirements and tips, you can ensure that your newspaper wedding announcement is well-prepared and has a higher chance of being published. Remember to proofread your announcement before submitting it and check for any additional guidelines specific to the newspaper you are targeting.

Newspaper Wedding Announcement Requirements	Contact Information	Submission Deadlines
The Daily Gazette	announcement@dailygazette.com	Submit within 3 months of the wedding date
The City Times	weddingannouncements@citytimes.com	Check website for submission deadlines
The Evening Star	info@eveningstar.com	Submit at least 6 weeks before the desired publication date

Mailed Wedding Announcements: Tips and Etiquette

When it comes to sharing the news of your marriage with friends and family who were not invited to the wedding, mailed wedding announcements are a thoughtful and personal way to do so. Whether you choose to handwrite them or have them professionally printed, there are some key tips and etiquette guidelines to keep in mind.

Mailed Wedding Announcement Wording and Format

When it comes to the wording and format of your mailed wedding announcements, there are no strict rules to follow. You have the freedom to choose a style that reflects your personality and the tone of your wedding. However, it is important to consider the formality of your wedding when making these decisions.

Include the names of both partners, the wedding date and location, and a brief message sharing the joyous news. Keep it concise and heartfelt, conveying your excitement and happiness. If you have opted for a more formal wedding, you may choose to use proper titles and more traditional phrasing. For a more casual or informal wedding, you can let your personality shine through with a more relaxed and personal tone.

Mailing Your Wedding Announcements

Once your wedding announcements are ready, it’s time to send them out. Take the time to address each announcement personally, making recipients feel valued and appreciated. Handwriting the addresses adds a personal touch, but if you have a large number of recipients, you may opt to use address labels or have them professionally printed.

Consider the timing of your mailings as well. It is ideal to send the announcements soon after the wedding, while the joy and excitement are still fresh. However, if you need more time or have reasons for delaying the announcements, you can send them up to several months later. Just be sure not to wait too long, as the news may lose its impact over time.

Wedding Announcement Mailing Tips
Choose a design or format that reflects your personality and wedding theme.
Include a heartfelt message or personal note to make the announcement more meaningful.
Consider using a photo from your wedding or engagement as part of the announcement.
Take time to address and personalize each announcement to make recipients feel special.
Consider adding a small gift or token to the announcement for an extra touch of appreciation.

Who to Send Mailed Wedding Announcements To

Deciding who to send your mailed wedding announcements to can be a personal choice. Typically, mailed announcements are sent to friends and family who were not invited to the wedding but may want to know the news of your marriage. This can include distant relatives, business associates, and friends who didn’t make the guest list.

While there are no hard and fast rules, it is best to avoid sending announcements to friends who were not invited to a larger wedding, as it may be seen as a reminder that they were not included. Use your judgment and consider the size of your wedding when determining who to send announcements to. The goal is to share your joyous news while being sensitive to those who were not part of the celebration.

In conclusion, mailed wedding announcements are a personal and heartfelt way to share the news of your marriage with friends and family. By following these tips and etiquette guidelines, you can create meaningful announcements that reflect your style and make recipients feel valued.

Wedding Announcement Wording Examples

When it comes to announcing your wedding to friends and family who were not able to attend, finding the right words can be a challenge. Whether you’re opting for a formal or informal announcement, the wording should reflect your style and the tone you want to convey. Here are a few examples to inspire you:

Handwritten announcement:

“Dear Aunt Susan, Derek and I are thrilled to announce that we are married! Our wedding was on September 26th at a small restaurant in Petaluma. We celebrated with just a few family and friends and are heading on a honeymoon to Hawaii in a few weeks. We can’t wait to celebrate with you over the holidays! Love, Ashley and Derek”

Formal announcement:

“Mr. and Mrs. James Welch are honored to announce the marriage of their daughter Ashley Michelle to Mr. Derek Scott Jamison Saturday, the twenty-sixth of September two thousand and twenty, Petaluma, California”

Remember, these are just a few examples, and you can customize the wording to suit your preferences and the formality of your wedding. Whether you choose a heartfelt message or a more traditional format, make sure your announcement conveys the joyous news of your marriage.

Table:

Formality	Wording Example
Handwritten	“Dear Aunt Susan, Derek and I are thrilled to announce that we are married! Our wedding was on September 26th at a small restaurant in Petaluma. We celebrated with just a few family and friends and are heading on a honeymoon to Hawaii in a few weeks. We can’t wait to celebrate with you over the holidays! Love, Ashley and Derek”
Formal	“Mr. and Mrs. James Welch are honored to announce the marriage of their daughter Ashley Michelle to Mr. Derek Scott Jamison Saturday, the twenty-sixth of September two thousand and twenty, Petaluma, California”

Now that you have some examples to guide you, it’s time to craft your own wedding announcement. Remember, the most important thing is to share the joyous news of your marriage with your loved ones in a way that feels authentic and personal to you.

Wedding Announcement Dos and Don’ts

When it comes to announcing your wedding, there are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind. Following proper etiquette ensures that your announcements are tasteful and well-received by your friends and family.

Do Send Announcements to Friends and Family Who Were Not Invited to the Wedding

Wedding announcements are a thoughtful way to share the news of your marriage with those who couldn’t attend your wedding. It allows them to celebrate your special day and feel included in your joyous news.

“Announcing our marriage to friends and family who couldn’t be there on our special day. We are excited to share the news and can’t wait to celebrate with you!”

Don’t Send Announcements to Friends Who Were Not Invited to a Small Wedding

If you had a small and intimate wedding, it’s best to avoid sending announcements to friends who were not included on the guest list. It could potentially make them feel left out or reminded that they weren’t invited.

Do Consider the Formality of Your Wedding when Choosing Announcement Wording and Format

The formality of your wedding should guide the wording and format of your announcements. For formal weddings, use proper titles and traditional wording. For more casual weddings, you can opt for a more relaxed and personal approach.

“We tied the knot! Join us in celebrating our joyous union. Casual backyard reception to follow.”

Don’t Delay Sending Wedding Announcements

It’s best to send your wedding announcements soon after the wedding, allowing friends and family to share in your happiness while the wedding memories are still fresh. However, it’s acceptable to send announcements up to a few months after the wedding.

Do Personalize Your Wedding Announcements

Take the time to address each announcement personally, making each recipient feel special and appreciated. Handwritten notes or personalized messages add a thoughtful touch to your announcements.

“Dear Aunt Lisa, we wanted to share the wonderful news of our marriage with you. Your love and support mean the world to us.”

Wedding Announcement Etiquette Infographic

Below is a helpful infographic summarizing the dos and don’ts of wedding announcement etiquette:

	Dos	Don’ts
Send to friends and family who couldn’t attend	✔
Consider the formality of your wedding	✔
Personalize each announcement	✔
Send to friends not invited to a small wedding		✘
Delay sending announcements		✘

Remember, wedding announcements are a way to share your joy and create lasting memories with friends and family. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your announcements are received with warmth and excitement.

Submitting to the New York Times Vows Section

If you’re looking to have your wedding announcement featured in the famed New York Times Vows section, it’s important to understand the submission process and guidelines. While the Times receives numerous submissions, they are selective in what announcements they choose to publish. Here’s what you need to know:

Submission Requirements

1. Contact the New York Times directly to obtain their submission guidelines and requirements. Each announcement must adhere to their specific criteria.
2. Include all the necessary information such as both partners’ full names, ages, occupations, hometowns, parents’ names, and details about the wedding ceremony.
3. Be prepared to provide high-quality photos that meet the Times’ specifications, if required. These photos should capture the essence of your wedding day and showcase the couple’s joy.
4. Follow any additional instructions provided by the Times, such as word count limitations or specific formatting guidelines.

“Submitting your wedding announcement to the New York Times can be a thrilling experience, but remember that there is no guarantee of publication. The Times receives numerous submissions, and they carefully select announcements that meet their standards and align with their readership.”

Guidelines to Keep in Mind

• Focus on crafting a compelling narrative that highlights the unique aspects of your love story. The Times is particularly interested in stories that have broader appeal and resonate with their readership.
• Avoid excessive self-promotion or overly long announcements. Keep your submission concise and focused on the key details of your wedding.
• Consider submitting your announcement well in advance of your desired publication date, as the Times often has a backlog of entries. Plan accordingly to ensure your announcement is considered in a timely manner.

	New York Times Vows Section Submission Tips
1	Craft a captivating headline that grabs the reader’s attention and entices them to learn more about your love story.
2	Include unique and memorable details that set your wedding apart. This could be a special theme, location, or cultural elements.
3	Highlight any notable guests or VIPs who attended your wedding, adding prestige and interest to your announcement.
4	Showcase your shared values and passions as a couple, demonstrating what makes your relationship truly special.
5	Proofread your submission thoroughly to ensure it is free of errors and flows smoothly. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to review it as well.

Remember, a published wedding announcement in the New York Times Vows section can be a cherished memento of your special day and a beautiful way to share your love story with a broader audience. Good luck with your submission!

Section 8: Wedding Announcement Mailing Tips and Ideas

When it comes to mailing your wedding announcements, there are a few tips and ideas to consider that will make them even more special. Whether you choose to print them professionally or hand-write them, the presentation and personalization can make a big difference.

1. Choose the Right Stationery

Consider selecting stationery that reflects the style and theme of your wedding. This will create a cohesive and visually appealing announcement. You can opt for elegant designs, floral patterns, or even custom illustrations that showcase your personalities as a couple.

2. Handwritten Notes for a Personal Touch

Adding a personal touch to your wedding announcements can make them more meaningful. Consider taking the time to hand-write a short message to each recipient. This will show that you put thought and effort into each announcement, making your loved ones feel extra special.

“Dear Aunt Susan, we are thrilled to share the news of our marriage with you! Sending our love and gratitude, Ashley and Derek.”

3. Include a Meaningful Keepsake

To make your wedding announcements even more memorable, you can include a small keepsake along with the announcement. This could be a pressed flower from your bouquet, a photo from your wedding day, or even a personalized magnet or bookmark. Adding a thoughtful token will leave a lasting impression on your recipients.

4. Consider Unique Mailing Options

Instead of a traditional envelope, consider mailing your announcements in a more unique and creative way. You could use custom-designed postcards, decorative envelopes, or even fabric pouches. The presentation will add an extra touch of excitement when your loved ones receive your special announcement in the mail.

Mailing Tip	Idea
Use custom-designed postcards	Create a postcard with a photo from your wedding and a short message to share your joy
Decorative envelopes	Choose envelopes in a color or design that matches your wedding theme for an added wow factor
Fabric pouches	Wrap your announcement in a small fabric pouch and tie it with a ribbon for an elegant touch

By following these tips and ideas, your wedding announcements will be a beautiful representation of your special day. Remember to choose the right stationery, add a personal touch, include a meaningful keepsake, and consider unique mailing options to create a memorable and delightful announcement for your loved ones to cherish.

Who to Send Wedding Announcements To

When it comes to wedding announcements, it’s important to consider who should receive them. Wedding announcements are typically sent to friends and family who were not invited to the wedding but may want to know the news of your marriage. This can include distant relatives, business associates, and close friends who didn’t make the guest list. However, it’s essential to use your judgment and consider the size of your wedding when determining who to send the announcements to.

While it’s thoughtful to share the joyous news with loved ones who couldn’t attend, it’s best to avoid sending announcements to friends who were not invited to a small wedding. Receiving an announcement may unintentionally remind them that they were not included in the celebration, potentially causing discomfort or hurt feelings.

To ensure that your wedding announcements are received with appreciation, carefully select the recipients based on your relationship and their likely interest in your marriage. By considering the feelings and expectations of those on your mailing list, you can share the news in a thoughtful and considerate manner.

Wedding Announcement Etiquette for Formal and Informal Announcements

When it comes to announcing your wedding, you have the option to go for either a formal or informal approach, depending on your personal style and preferences. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate the etiquette for each type of announcement:

Formal Wedding Announcements

If you prefer a traditional and elegant approach, formal wedding announcements are the way to go. These announcements typically follow established etiquette and use proper titles and wording. Here are some key elements to consider:

• Include the full names of both partners, along with their titles if applicable (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.).
• Mention the date, time, and location of the wedding ceremony. If the reception is held at a different venue, include that information as well.
• Include the names of both sets of parents, indicating their relationship to the couple (e.g., “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, parents of the bride”).
• Add a brief message expressing joy and gratitude, such as “Together with their families, [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name] joyfully announce their marriage and express their heartfelt gratitude for your love and support.”

Informal Wedding Announcements

If you prefer a more casual and personal approach, informal wedding announcements allow for creativity and customization. Here are some tips to consider:

• Include the names of both partners, without titles, to create a more relaxed tone.
• Share the wedding date and location in a simple and straightforward manner.
• Feel free to include a personal message that reflects your personality and relationship, such as “We tied the knot! Join us in celebrating our love and new chapter together.”
• Consider adding a photo from your wedding day to make the announcement more visually appealing and memorable.

Remember, the key to a successful wedding announcement is to capture the essence of your special day while considering the preferences of your recipients. Whether you choose a formal or informal approach, make sure the wording and style of your announcement reflects your personality as a couple.

Formal Wedding Announcements	Informal Wedding Announcements
Follow established etiquette	Allow for creativity and customization
Include proper titles and wording	Use a more relaxed and personal tone
Include full names and titles	Include names without titles
Mention date, time, and location	Share wedding date and location simply
Include names of both sets of parents	Add a personal message reflecting your personality

Section 11: Wedding Announcement Tips for a Memorable Announcement

When it comes to announcing your wedding, you want to make it a memorable experience for both you and your loved ones. Here are some tips to help you create an announcement that will leave a lasting impression:

1. Reflect your personality and wedding theme: Choose a design or format that speaks to who you are as a couple and reflects the style of your wedding. Whether it’s a formal and elegant announcement or a more casual and whimsical one, let it showcase your unique personality.
2. Add a heartfelt message or personal note: Make your announcement more meaningful by including a heartfelt message or a personal note. This can be a thoughtful message to your friends and family, expressing your gratitude and excitement for sharing your special day with them.
3. Incorporate a memorable photo: Consider using a photo from your wedding or engagement session as part of your announcement. A picture is worth a thousand words, and including a beautiful image will make your announcement even more special.
4. Personalize each announcement: Take the time to address and personalize each announcement to make your recipients feel valued and appreciated. By adding a personal touch, such as mentioning a shared memory or inside joke, you’ll make each announcement feel unique and tailored to the recipient.
5. Add a small gift or token: To further enhance the impact of your announcement, consider including a small gift or token. It could be a bookmark, a magnet, or a small keepsake that symbolizes your wedding day. This gesture will show your appreciation and make your announcement stand out.

By following these tips, you can create a memorable and thoughtful wedding announcement that will leave a lasting impression on your loved ones. Remember, this is an opportunity to share your joy and gratitude, so let your personality and love shine through!

Note: Wedding announcement ideas are subjective and can vary depending on individual preferences. Feel free to adapt these tips to suit your unique style and vision for your announcement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering wedding announcement etiquette is essential to share the news of your marriage with friends and family who couldn’t attend the wedding. By following proper guidelines and considering the preferences of your recipients, you can create tasteful and memorable announcements.

Remember to choose the wording and format that best reflects your wedding style and personal preferences. Whether you opt for formal or informal announcements, it’s important to address and personalize each announcement to make recipients feel valued and appreciated.

Take the time to consider various elements, such as design, heartfelt messages, and personalized touches, to create a truly unique and meaningful announcement. By adhering to wedding announcement etiquette and incorporating these tips, you can ensure that your announcements leave a lasting impression on your loved ones.

So, go ahead and share your joyous news through wedding announcements while keeping in mind the proper etiquette and guidelines for a memorable experience.

Source Links

• https://www.brides.com/story/how-to-send-wedding-announcements
• https://www.visithawthorn.com/shopnow/product/wedding-etiquette-the-ultimate-guide-to-weddings-and-etiquette-discover-how-to-plan-and-manage-a-memorable-wedding-event-of-your-life-barbarasbookstore-7574c4
• https://verveeventco.com/wedding-etiquette-for-addressing-wedding-invitations/