Alright, so you’re gettin’ hitched, huh? Good for you, good for you. Now, this whole invitin’ folks thing, it’s a bit of a pickle, ain’t it? Especially when it comes to whose name goes first. Don’t you worry none, I’ve seen a weddin’ or two in my time, and I’ll tell ya what’s what.
The Old Way, You Know, the “Proper” Way
Back in the day, it was always the bride’s name first. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Her name, all pretty and proper, right up there at the top. Like, “Missy May Sue and Mr. John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt.” See? Missy May comes first. That’s how they did it. And if her folks were payin’ for the whole shebang, well, their names were up there too, invitin’ everyone on behalf of their little girl.
- Why the bride first? Well, I reckon it’s ’cause the weddin’ day was supposed to be all about her. Her big moment, you know? So, her name got top billing.
- What if the bride’s folks are hostin’? Then it’s somethin’ like, “Mr. and Mrs. Biggins request the honour of your presence at the marriage of their daughter, Missy May Sue, to Mr. John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt.” See? Still Missy May first.
But Things Are Changin’, Ain’t They?
Now, these young folks, they like to do things their own way. And that’s alright, I guess. Sometimes they pay for the weddin’ themselves, so they get to decide whose name goes first. Sometimes they just like the way it looks better the other way around.
So, what do you do?
Well, here’s what I think. If you’re kinda traditional, stick with the bride’s name first. It’s polite, it’s what most folks expect, and it makes your grandma happy. But if you and your fella are payin’ for it, or if you just plain want his name first, go for it! It’s your weddin’, ain’t it?
Here’s a few things to think about:
- Who’s payin’ the bills? Like I said, if the bride’s family is footin’ the bill, it’s usually her name first. If you and your fella are payin’, you get to choose.
- What feels right? Don’t get too hung up on what other people think. Do what feels right for you and your partner. It’s your special day, after all.
- What about same-sex couples? Well, that’s a whole different kettle of fish. Some folks go alphabetically, some just put whoever they want first. There ain’t no real rules yet, so just do what makes you happy.
And what about the program and all that other stuff?
For the program, the order is pretty standard. Bride’s name first, then the groom’s, then the date and time of the weddin’. Simple as that. And when you’re walkin’ down the aisle? Well, the groom usually goes first, then the family, then the weddin’ party, and then the bride. That’s just how it’s done. But again, if you want to mix things up, go right ahead.
Don’t sweat it too much, okay?
At the end of the day, it ain’t the end of the world if the names are in the “wrong” order. People are gonna come to your weddin’ to celebrate with you, not to critique your invitations. So, don’t go losin’ sleep over it. Just pick what you like, and be done with it. The important thing is that you’re gettin’ married to the person you love, and that’s all that matters. Now, go on and get hitched! And don’t forget to send me an invitation, even if my old eyes can barely see whose name is first anymore!
A little secret: Just between you and me, I always liked seein’ the bride’s name first. Made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside. But shhh, don’t tell anyone I said that! Times are changin’ after all.
One more thing: Make sure those invitations are nice and clear. Big print, so folks like me can read ‘em without their spectacles. And don’t forget the RSVP card! You gotta know how much food to make, right?
Alright, I think that’s about it. You got any more questions, you come on back and ask. I’m always happy to help a young couple out. Now, go on and plan that weddin’! And congratulations, by the way.
Tags: Wedding Invitations, Wedding Etiquette, Bride and Groom, Name Order, Traditional Weddings, Modern Weddings, Wedding Planning, Wedding Program, Walking Down the Aisle
