Second Marriage Invitation Wording: Modern Etiquette & Examples for 2025

The landscape of modern weddings is shifting, and the "encore wedding" is no longer the quiet, courthouse-only affair of the past. Today, approximately 29% of all weddings involve at least one partner who has been married before. Whether you are planning a sophisticated black-tie event or an intimate micro-wedding, choosing the right second marriage invitation wording is about honoring your past while celebrating your new future.

As an interfaith wedding officiant, I have seen a beautiful evolution in how couples approach their second walk down the aisle. In 2025 and 2026, the rigid rules of the past are being replaced by warmth, storytelling, and a deep sense of gratitude for the community that has supported the couple through various life chapters.

The Modern Philosophy of Encore Invitations

For many years, etiquette guides suggested that second weddings should be smaller and less "formal" than first weddings. Thankfully, those days are over. Your second marriage is a milestone worth celebrating with as much (or more) fanfare as your first. However, the logistics of the invitation often require more nuance, particularly regarding who is hosting and how to reference children or previous names.

The primary goal of your invitation should be clarity and tone. Since many second-time couples are more established in their lives and careers, the wording often shifts from "parents requesting the honor" to the couple themselves acting as hosts.

Who Hosts? Deciding on the Header Wording

In a traditional first wedding, the bride’s parents usually host, and their names appear at the top of the invite. For second marriages, this is rarely the case. Most encore couples are independent and choose to host the event themselves.

The Couple-Hosted Standard

The most popular phrasing for 2025 is "Together with their families." This acknowledges the support of parents and children without implying that the parents are the primary financial sponsors.

Example:

Together with their families [Name] and [Name] request the pleasure of your company at the celebration of their marriage

When Parents Still Host

In some cases, especially in "gray remarriage" scenarios or when the couple is quite young, parents may still wish to host.

Example:

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Smith request the honor of your presence at the marriage of their daughter [Name] to [Name]

Real-World Examples of Second Marriage Invitation Wording

Finding the right "voice" for your invitation is essential. Here are three distinct styles that are trending for 2025 and 2026.

1. The Blended Family Approach

Including children from a previous marriage is a heartfelt way to signal the joining of two families, not just two individuals.

Example: [Child's Name] and [Child's Name] invite you to join them as their parents, [Name] and [Name], unite their families in marriage. Please join us for a day of love and laughter.

2. The Formal & Sophisticated Suite

For couples opting for a luxury encore wedding at a high-end venue, the language should remain classic and elevated.

Example: The honor of your presence is requested at the marriage of Ms. [First Middle Last] and Mr. [First Middle Last] Saturday, the twelfth of July Two thousand twenty-five at half after five o'clock

3. The Conversational & Casual Style

Perfect for backyard celebrations or destination weddings, this style is gaining massive popularity for 2026.

Example: We’re doing it again! Because you’ve been a vital part of our story, [Name] and [Name] invite you to celebrate our new chapter. Dinner, drinks, and bad dancing to follow.

Addressing the Name Dilemma

One of the most frequent questions I receive as an officiant is: "Should I use my ex-husband's last name if that's what everyone knows me by?"

Etiquette experts generally recommend using your maiden name or simply your first and middle names. A second wedding represents a fresh start. Using a former spouse’s surname can create confusion or feel "stuck in the past." If you must use your current legal name (perhaps for professional consistency), omit the "Mrs." title and use "Ms." or no title at all.

2025–2026 Trends in Invitation Design

While the wording is the heart of the invite, the physical presentation is evolving. We are moving away from the "non-template" era and into "Maximum Personalization."

Storytelling Suites

Invitations are becoming "prologues." Many couples now include a small "story card" or a timeline of their relationship. This is particularly effective for second marriages where guests from different phases of your life might not know the full story of how you and your new partner met.

Tactile Elements

2026 is the year of the sensory invitation. Expect to see:

• Velvet or Suede Finishes: Adding a luxurious weight to the cardstock.
• Custom Wax Seals: Often featuring a combined monogram of the couple’s new joint initials.
• Letterpress: A classic technique that feels more permanent and intentional.

QR Code Integration

Despite the focus on tactile beauty, tech is essential. 42% of couples now include a QR code on a separate details card. This allows for instant RSVPs and easy access to your wedding website, where you can house more complex information that doesn't fit on the main card.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When crafting your second marriage invitation wording, it is easy to fall into old habits or overthink the etiquette. Here are the most common pitfalls to watch out for:

• The Registry Faux Pas: Never put registry information on the invitation itself. While it is perfectly acceptable to have a registry for a second wedding, that information belongs on your website.
• The "No Gifts" Mistake: Writing "No Gifts Please" on the invitation actually draws more attention to the idea of gifts. Instead, let your preference be known via word of mouth or a very subtle line on your website: "Your presence is our favorite gift."
• The Name Order Struggle: Traditionally, the bride's name goes first. However, many encore couples choose alphabetical order or simply what sounds better phonetically. There is no "wrong" choice here.
• Ignoring the Timeline: If your transition from a previous marriage was recent, keep the wording extremely warm and future-focused. This sets a positive tone and helps guests feel comfortable celebrating your new joy.

Handling RSVPs and Guest Lists

Second weddings often involve tighter, more curated guest lists. To avoid "plus-one" confusion or unexpected guests, be extremely clear on your RSVP cards.

Instead of a blank line, consider using: "We have reserved [Number] seats in your honor."

This clearly defines the scope of the invitation. Additionally, if you are planning a smaller event, you can find further guidance in our Wedding Invitation Wording Etiquette guide, which covers guest list management in detail.

Conclusion

Your wedding invitation is the first glimpse your guests will have into your new life together. For a second marriage, the wording should reflect the maturity, grace, and excitement of this milestone. By focusing on your unique story—and perhaps including the voices of your children or families—you create an invitation that is both a request for presence and a beautiful keepsake.

For more inspiration on phrasing and structure, visit our Complete Guide to Wedding Invitations or browse our Wedding Invitation Wording Examples.