On the accessory cards, the date and time formats should be consistent. If a time is not provided, you may spell out the date, abbreviate it or use a numerical date.
The date should be spelled out at all times. It should be preceded by the day of the week and a comma should separate the two. The year should always be on a separate line and may be omitted if desired. A comma should not separate the month and year. Here is an example of the proper way to have the date:
on Saturday, the first of November
Two thousand and eight
- Accessory cards:
If the time is used on the accessory card, be consistent with the date. When the time is spelled out, spell out the date. If you use numerical time, then use a numerical date. If a time is not used, any format is acceptable.
We often see the use of symbols to represent words. This is becoming more and more popular; however, it is a social faux pas. You should never use symbols on the invitation. For example, Mr. & Mrs. should always be Mr. and Mrs.
Etiquette dictates certain protocols when it comes to capitalization. Names of people and places are always capitalized. When spelling out the year, capitalize the “t” in two, as seen above. Sentences or each new thought on an invitation should always begin with a capital letter.
Zip codes do not belong on the invitation or most of the accessory cards. They are appropriate only on the outer envelopes, R.S.V.P. envelopes and at home cards.
You should always ask someone else to proofread your wording. Make sure you play close attention to proper nouns. Many common words are often misspelled or misused. For example, you should use night instead of nite.