"Not Just the Couple: Solutions to the Little-Known 'Who's Sending the Invitation?' Dilemma!"
2020.01.10 published
Who Should Be the "Sender" on the Invitation?
Who will be the "sender" on the wedding invitation? Many couples take the lead in preparing for their wedding, so you might naturally think that the sender's name on the invitation should be "their own names."
However, there are three patterns for sending wedding invitations. One is to send it "in the names of the bride and groom," another is to send it "in the names of the bride and groom's parents," and the third is "the envelope has the names of the bride and groom, while the contents include the names of the bride and groom's parents."
Although there are three options, it doesn't mean any of them is suitable. The choice depends on the couple's position, family circumstances, and the guests they invite. So, which option should be chosen? Let’s discuss.
What Exactly is a Sender?
Wedding invitations need a sender, but what does "sender" actually mean?
The sender of a wedding invitation indicates to the guests who the "host" of the wedding is. In other words, it is not simply the names of the bride and groom but rather the name of the "wedding organizer."
In the past, weddings were typically hosted by “the family,” so many invitations were sent out in the name of the father, the head of the household.
However, with the rise of nuclear families, modern weddings are more often hosted by the bride and groom as individuals rather than as a family unit.
Therefore, depending on whether the wedding is hosted by the family or by the bride and groom personally, the sender's name on the invitation can change.
Wedding Invitation Sender Issue ① Using the Names of the Bride and Groom's Parents
The first option for the sender on the wedding invitation is to use the names of the bride and groom's parents (usually the father's name).
In this case, it signifies that the parents of the bride and groom are "hosting their son or daughter's wedding."
Using the names of both families’ fathers gives a more formal and respectful impression.
While it is common to list the bride and groom's names today, many from the parents' or grandparents' generation believe that "the wedding is something for parents to responsibly handle" (of course, financially as well).
For parents, it is also an event to showcase their beloved son or daughter whom they have raised with care.
Some guests, especially those from the workplace (like older supervisors), may also assume that it is the parents who are sending the invitations. Therefore, brides planning a formal wedding with many work-related guests might be better off using their parents' names as the sender. In any case, it’s wise to confirm with the parents about who should be listed as the sender (host).
Wedding Invitation Sender Issue ② Using the Names of the Bride and Groom
The next option is to send the invitation in the names of the bride and groom. Nowadays, weddings are organized by the couple themselves, so it is natural to have the sender's name as that of the bride and groom.
Brides who are planning a casual wedding with only friends, rather than formal events with many work-related guests, often choose to use their own names.
However, if you choose this option, it is essential to confirm with your parents that it is acceptable to send the invitations in your names.
Listing the parents' names on the wedding invitation implies a degree of respect for them. Therefore, if you are receiving financial support from them, it would be disrespectful to use your own names without permission.
Brides wishing to use their names on the invitations should discuss this with their parents beforehand.
Wedding Invitation Sender Issue ③ Names of the Bride and Groom on the Envelope, Parents’ Names Inside
The final method I’d like to discuss is to put the bride and groom's names on the envelope while using the names of the bride and groom's parents inside. This option is commonly chosen by brides who worry that using their parents' names might cause confusion.
If the parents' names are on the wedding invitation, work-related guests might wonder "Who are they?" Of course, the wedding plans and invitations would have been discussed in advance, but brides who feel uneasy about using the fathers' names might prefer to have the couple's names on the envelope for clarity.
It’s also advisable to discuss with your parents to determine what would be best.
Wedding Invitation Sender Issues: Do Your Best to Avoid Family Conflicts
How did you find the wedding invitation sender issue? Many brides have faced conflicts with their parents or relatives after assuming “It would be in the parents’ names, but we sent it in our names instead” or “We sent it in our parents’ names without confirmation.” There are even cases where a bride was questioned by relatives about why the parents' names weren’t used.
Some executives publicly state that they perceive a wedding invitation sent in the names of the bride and groom instead of the parents as disrespectful and refuse to attend such weddings.
Although it might seem like a trivial matter, the sender's name carries significant weight. Discuss thoroughly with your parents about what kind of wedding you want to have and make it a wonderful occasion.