This is the third in a series on how to write an Inviting Invitation. Parts I (Lead With Your Location) and II (State Your Purpose Please) have been posted on the previous two days in the category "Inviting Invitations."
Part III: WHY DO YOUR GUESTS MATTER?
A third element to consider is "Why are you inviting guests?" What is it about having others at your marriage ceremony that is important to you?
A poetically paraphrased version of your answers to these questions will enhance your invitation by making your guests feel special because you’ve actually identified why their presence matters so much to you. It doesn’t have to be complicated, as you will see below. A few words can go a long way toward making your message distinct.
My "sample couple" told me that they absolutely "cherish" the friends and family who were being invited, and that having them present for their exchange of vows is actually what would make their wedding day the most "joyful" for them.
The result follows (see words in bold):
There’s a place on Earth
1,000 feet above the neighboring sea
where we will gather in the garden of a beloved friend,
next to a grove of Olive trees for good luck,
and among those whom we most cherish.
There,
we will make sacred vows of commitment
in a ceremony intended to
strengthen our experience of life as partners
and our belief in the tradition of family.
Joy-filled we’d be if you will join us.
Saturday, May 10, 2005 at Noon
at the home of Marc Rhodell
101 Cliff View Road
Malibu, California