The usual structure

• Invocation: a deity's name or a blessing, if your family uses one.
• Hosts: usually the parents, sometimes 'together with their families' or the couple themselves.
• The request: 'request the pleasure of your company' (formal) or 'invite you to celebrate' (warmer).
• The couple: full names, often with parents' names under each.
• Date, time and venue, then other functions.
• A closing line, and often the names of family members inviting you.

Whose name comes first?

Conventionally, the hosting family's child is named first: the bride's family lists the bride first, and the groom's family lists the groom first. When both families host jointly, either order is fine. Many couples simply choose what sounds best.

Mistakes to avoid

• Misspelt names, especially of elders. Read every name aloud once.
• A missing day of the week. Guests use it to check the date.
• AM/PM confusion for early muhurtams. Write 'morning' or 'night' if in doubt.
• No RSVP contact, so guests don't know whom to tell.
• Too much text on one page. Split functions into separate cards.

Sample opening lines