Possibly in the days of old, wedding invitations were announced through the beating of drums or shouting names of parents and bridal couples from village squares. With the advent of printing technology, more discrete forms of announcements were adopted. It evolved into a stage whereby the infamous card shared a postal journey with many other pieces of mail, making its way to the postbox of its guest. Somewhere along the way, some bright spark may have toyed with the idea of utilizing electronic invitations as the preferred mode to the physical versions. This however did not take off too well as not everyone was keen or inclined to accept an email invite to a wedding. Somehow it did not lend an intention as well as a card in hand.
Various forms of etiquette exist in the subject of wedding invitations. Depending on locale, lifestyle and language, each portrays a different slant of the same message. Without having to say any further, essential details are the names of the bride and groom followed by details of the happy occasion. Names of parents are oft included as a show of respect, especially if the cards target a more matured crowd of invitees. It is not a surprise to receive a card to a couple’s wedding whereby the invitee has no inkling on how he or she is related to them. Parents’ names thus serve as the missing link to associate the bride as the second daughter of the aunt’s first cousin.
Arrangement of names on the card may also give a subtle yet unmistakable hint on the financier of the occasion. In footing the expenses, one’s name gets to occupy the distinguished position of being first mentioned. Salutations are normally kept to a minimum as it is not necessary to spell out one’s academic and professional achievements, acronyms and all.
Culture or lifestyle has an influence in colors and layout. Oriental ceremonies tend to be laden in auspicious colors of red and gold. In addition to Romanized characters, traditional characters may be added for the benefit of family and friends who are traditionally-versed. For those who still practice the art of scenting wedding invitations, makes it quite easy to pick out a wedding card from the rest of the pile.

