Wedding invitations serve as both a practical communication tool and a symbolic introduction to a couple’s marriage celebration. In the context of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), wedding invitations often reflect specific religious practices, cultural traditions, and event structures that differ from those of many other wedding ceremonies. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure that invitations are accurate, respectful, and clear for all recipients.
The Role of Temple Weddings in LDS Marriages
A central aspect of many LDS weddings is the temple sealing ceremony. Temple marriages are considered sacred religious ordinances and are conducted inside LDS temples. Attendance at these ceremonies is limited to members of the Church who hold a valid temple recommend. As a result, not all family members or friends may be able to attend the actual sealing.
Because of this, LDS wedding invitations often focus on events that are open to a broader audience, such as the wedding reception, ring ceremony, or open house. The invitation must clearly communicate which events guests are invited to attend, especially when the sealing itself is not included.
Invitation Structure and Common Formats
LDS wedding invitations may take several forms depending on the events planned. Some couples choose to send a single invitation that references the reception or open house only. Others include multiple inserts to explain the temple sealing, reception details, and additional celebrations.
Common formats include:
- Reception Invitations: These invite guests to a post-sealing reception and typically include the date, time, location, and dress expectations.
- Open House Invitations: An open house often has a more flexible timeframe and may be held at a family home, church building, or reception venue.
- Announcement-Style Invitations: In some cases, couples send announcements after the wedding to share the news of their marriage with extended family or acquaintances.
Each format serves a different purpose and reflects the structure of the wedding events.
Wording Considerations for LDS Wedding Invitations
Wording is an important element of LDS wedding invitations, particularly because of the need to clarify which events are open to guests. Invitations often avoid explicitly inviting guests to the temple ceremony if they are not eligible to attend.
Typical wording approaches include:
- Referring to the couple as being “sealed for time and all eternity” in a temple without listing it as an event to attend.
- Inviting guests to “celebrate the marriage” at a reception following the temple sealing.
- Listing reception details without mentioning the ceremony time or location.
This approach helps maintain respect for religious practices while ensuring that guests understand where they are welcome.
Religious Language and Cultural Tone
LDS wedding invitations often incorporate language that reflects faith and values, though the degree of religious reference varies by couple. Some invitations include subtle references to eternal marriage or blessings, while others remain more traditional and minimal.
Scripture quotes, references to faith, or expressions of gratitude may be included, but they are not required. The tone is generally respectful, modest, and family-oriented, aligning with LDS cultural expectations.
Design Styles Common in LDS Invitations
Design choices for LDS wedding invitations often reflect simplicity, elegance, and modesty. While there is no single “LDS style,” certain design trends are commonly seen.
These may include:
- Neutral or soft color palettes
- Floral or botanical illustrations
- Minimalist typography
- Traditional fonts or calligraphy
- Clean layouts with ample white space
Overly elaborate or extravagant designs are less common, though personal preference ultimately guides design choices. Many couples aim for invitations that feel timeless and meaningful rather than trendy.
Paper, Printing, and Materials
The materials used for LDS wedding invitations vary widely. Some couples opt for classic cardstock invitations, while others choose handmade paper, linen textures, or recycled materials. Digital invitations are also becoming more common, particularly for receptions or open houses.
Printing methods may include:
- Standard digital printing
- Letterpress
- Foil stamping
- Embossing or debossing
The choice of materials and printing methods often depends on budget, personal taste, and the formality of the event.
Including Reception and Open House Details
Because the reception or open house is typically the primary public event, LDS wedding invitations usually provide clear and detailed information for these gatherings. Important details include:
- Date and time
- Venue name and address
- Dress code, if applicable
- RSVP instructions (if required)
Open houses may include a time range rather than a fixed start time, and invitations often note that guests may come and go at their convenience.
Ring Ceremonies and Additional Celebrations
Some LDS couples choose to hold a ring ceremony outside the temple for guests who cannot attend the sealing. This ceremony may include the exchange of rings, readings, or brief remarks. If a ring ceremony is planned, it is typically listed separately on the invitation or included as part of the reception schedule.
The invitation should clearly indicate whether the ring ceremony is a formal event or an informal gathering to avoid confusion.
Etiquette for Non-LDS Guests
Many LDS couples invite friends or family members who are not members of the Church. In these cases, clarity and sensitivity are especially important. Invitations that explain the nature of the celebration without assuming prior knowledge help non-LDS guests feel included and informed.
Avoiding unfamiliar terminology or providing gentle context can improve understanding while maintaining respect for religious practices.Announcements and Post-Wedding Communication
In some situations, couples choose to send wedding announcements rather than invitations, particularly if the wedding and reception are small or family-focused. Announcements are typically sent after the ceremony and include the couple’s names, wedding date, and location.
These announcements serve as a way to share the news of the marriage without implying an invitation to an event.
Conclusion
LDS wedding invitations are shaped by religious traditions, cultural values, and the unique structure of temple weddings. Their primary purpose is to communicate celebration details clearly while respecting the sacred nature of the sealing ceremony. From wording and design to etiquette and format, these invitations reflect both faith and family.
By understanding the role of temple ceremonies, receptions, and open houses, couples can create invitations that are thoughtful, inclusive, and informative. Whether simple or detailed, LDS wedding invitations serve as a meaningful introduction to a marriage rooted in both tradition and personal expression.
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