Proper wording

[ocdg]

I'm doing a 40th anniversary party and I already have the invitations to be sending out along with directions. My problem is would it be proper to have a insert stating that the affair is to be formal? If so how should it be worded so as not to offen anyone? I know that after 6 is consider formal however my affair starts at 5 pm. Any suggestions would be greatly appeciated.

[Navywife2b]

I hope it's not to late for a reply, but my wedding will be at 4:30 and it will be formal so on my invitations (in fine print) I put "this will be a formal event, please dress accordingly" Hope this helped.

[Ciarrai]

By traditional etiquette, that's actually frowned upon. Guests are supposed to know the formality of the event by the invitations. The only acceptable thing to do according to Emily Post would be to put "black tie" or something to that effect on a reception card in the invitation.

That said, I don't think the original poster will be back to read any advice anyway.

[wynelle]

Originally Posted by Navywife2b

I hope it's not to late for a reply, but my wedding will be at 4:30 and it will be formal so on my invitations (in fine print) I put "this will be a formal event, please dress accordingly" Hope this helped.

You know, the military has some pretty strict rules on what uniforms will be worn at what time and what season. Men don't think about things like that, but if you are planning for your groom to wear the military equivalent of "black tie" at 4:30-- you better make sure it is acceptable within Uniform Regulations.

And I agree with Ciarra-- your wording is not appropriate per etiquette