The perfect word or phrase can set the tone for any special occasion. Presidential hopefuls, civil rights leaders, and corporate spokespeople all know the importance of the written word. Before they were spoken, most of the greatest speeches in history were mulled over as they were being written.

Give your wedding invitations the same kind of time and attention a great leader would give to his or her cause. Select a quote or phrase that demands attention and see how many people applaud your efforts.

The "Write" Way to Address Your Guests

Here’s how your wedding invitations can make a powerful impression:

• Select a theme for your big day and match the tone of your text with the look of your stationery. For example, you shouldn’t mix a contemporary pattern with a dated message. As easy as it may be to follow tradition, it isn’t always possible with some wedding announcements.

• Certain printing companies charge by the word. From an economical standpoint, less is always more. Be concise on your wedding invitations to make an impact and save the rest for your vows.

• Use quotes and special phrases sparingly. One really moving statement is all that is necessary on a wedding invitation. Between all the who, what, when, where, and how, multiple quips and clever sayings are lost on the card’s recipient.

• If you include the names of your parents on the wedding invitation and they have remarried, word the announcement this way to avoid any upsets and eliminate the chance of confusion:

Mother’s First Name followed by Husband’s First and Last Name

Father’s First Name, Wife’s First Name followed by Father’s Last Name

Make Your Wedding Invitations Personal

The wording on your wedding invitations does not need to follow a strict and traditional standard. In fact, you can make your wedding invitations incredibly personal and special by incorporating elements that are important to you and your soul mate.

• Share your favorite memory of your fiancée in a new and unusual way. Include a list of 10 Reasons Why I Love Sheila or Ten Ways Rob Steals My Heart on the front of the invitation. Print wedding details on the back. Don’t be afraid to make it personal, but write it for a G-rated audience. The idea is not to offend anyone who may want to help you celebrate your big event, but to make your wedding invitations special and personal.

• Select a quote to inspire the muse within. Many quote resources exist that can help a person write the right words each and every time. You can even find databases full of wonderful quotes on love, life, and success. Try one of these on for size:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.—I Corinthians 13

Where we love is home, home that our feet may leave, but not our hearts.—Oliver Wendell Holmes

Powerful words can be used to evoke emotion. Let your wedding invitations communicate your desire to make a long and happy life together