Just the Thought Sends Chills Down My Spine...! How to Write an Apology Letter for Mistakes in Sent Invitations

2019.07.07 published

Just thinking about it is terrifying: the mistake on the invitation.

Invitations sent to guests for the wedding are sent out 2-3 months in advance.

The invitation is sent after confirming the information multiple times with the husband to ensure there are no mistakes.

But... sometimes it happens.

"I mistakenly wrote a guest's name in the wrong kanji."

"The ceremony start time was written in the wrong time zone."

"The venue address was for a different location."

"The status of the request note was incorrect."

It’s a terrifying situation...

Just thinking about it happening at my own wedding sends chills down my spine...!

@tocco.wedding

It can happen to anyone, so be careful!

Among the mistakes that occur on invitations, the most common is errors in the kanji of names.

This often happens under these situations, for example...

✓ Creating the invitation when there’s no time and missing similar-looking kanji errors

✓ Completely leaving the names of the groom's guests to him, leading to careless confirmation

✓ Using different names on LINE or social media, resulting in mistakenly thinking it was that kanji in the first place

And so on.

The next most common mistake is mixing up whether to include or omit the notes,

but mistakes on wedding invitations can happen to anyone, to any couple.

The only countermeasure is to write correct information word for word without mistakes and to double-check multiple times,

It’s important not to think, "We will be fine," and to be thoroughly cautious＊

@yuih_wd

But what if there is a mistake...? Writing an apology letter is courteous.

However, if it is discovered that there was a mistake in the invitation content...

As a responsible adult, the proper response is to resend a corrected invitation along with an "apology letter."

Of course, if it’s close friends or relatives, verbally or via LINE saying "Sorry!" might be sufficient,

But there may be situations where you want to avoid a half-hearted response, or where that simply wouldn’t be acceptable.

@miho_ftw_wedding

Here are examples of apology letters based on different types of mistakes.

Pattern 1: Mistakes in date, time, or venue

Dear [Name],

I hope this message finds you well.

I apologize for the error in the invitation I sent out recently; there was a mistake in some details. I am sending this corrected invitation.

I am truly sorry for the inconvenience caused.

The correct information is as follows, and I kindly ask for your understanding.

I look forward to seeing you on that day. Please take care when you come.

Sincerely,

@dog_mt050324

➡ Since this mistake doesn't involve the guest's name, it's best to convey the apology without making excuses.

Pattern 2: Mistakes in the guest's name

Dear [Name],

I hope this message finds you well and thriving.

I sincerely apologize for the error in the invitation. I deeply regret any inconvenience caused.

I will send you the correct invitation shortly, and I hope for your understanding.

I look forward to seeing you on that day. Please take care when you come.

Sincerely,

@ay0401w

➡ Mistakes involving the guest's name are extremely disrespectful. It’s important to express your sincere feelings of regret, and if appropriate, a phone call can show extra courtesy.

Is a gift necessary? Yes or no?

Regarding whether a gift should accompany the apology letter,

usually, it is not necessary. However, depending on the person or situation, it's essential to assess,

If the mistake was in the name of a guest who is a major invitee or a superior at work,

It may be prudent to include a modest gift, around ¥1,000 to ¥2,000, to demonstrate thoughtfulness.

@yuih_wd

Use high-quality white stationary and write by hand with a brush pen.

The paper used for the apology letter should be high-quality, pristine white, and preferably of vertical writing style.

Use a brush pen instead of a ballpoint pen to write the letters neatly.

Thoroughly verify the invitation to avoid mistakes!

Wedding invitations are one of the most important paper items, and making mistakes can lead to serious issues.

However, if errors are found, being calm and capable in handling the situation will enhance the impression of being a responsible adult.

Create a mannerly "apology letter" and ensure to respond promptly and politely!

@0o.aya