If you’ve already shared your wedding date and you’ve heard that somebody sadly can’t attend, you’re probably wondering if you should send a wedding invitation if you know a guest can’t attend.
In short: Yes, you should. And this is why:
Featured image credit: Aidan Beatty Photography
It’s good etiquette
Wedding etiquette suggests that everybody who receives a Save The Date should also receive a wedding invitation. So your friends will probably expect an invitation, even if they know they won’t be able to attend.
Plans change
You just never know if your guests will actually be able to attend after all. Holidays get called off, sick relatives get better, and schedules get cleared. Whatever their initial reason for not being able to attend, it’s possible that their plans will change and you’ll want them in attendance!
Your invitation is a keepsake
This isn’t just a piece of paper. And it’s not just an invitation to a party. This is your wedding invitation and it’ll be a keepsake for guests, especially those who sadly won’t be at the wedding. In fact, your invitation may mean more to those guests because they won’t have any other memories of your Big Day. This will help your friends and family feel included in the festivities no matter what.
But what if it seems like you’re asking for gifts?
You may be concerned that your guests will think you’re asking for gifts by sending an invitation when they’ve already said they can’t attend. How about adding a personal note to their invitation and go the extra mile so they know your intentions are good?
Something like this: “We are so sorry you aren’t able to attend our wedding, but we just can’t bear to take you off the list! We are looking forward to celebrating with you another time very soon.”
