When it comes to wedding invitations, you probably already know there are many things to remember. Usually these details can be categorized into lists of do's and don'ts. These lists can cover anything from your wording to assembling and mailing your invitations. Just as important as your 'do' list is your 'not to do' list which is what we are going to concentrate on in this article.

Here is a list of don'ts when it comes to invitations. For easy reference, they are arranged in order as to when each item may fit into your preparations.

• Don't order the same number of wedding invitations as the number of guests on your list - those numbers won't match. Couples should be sent only one invitation even though they count as two guests on your list. Also, be sure to order a few extras to be safe.

• Don't exclude wedding party attendants, parents and the officiator from your invitation mailing list. Even though you know they will be attending, it is still proper to send them an invitation if only to be kept as a souvenir.

• Don't finalize your order until you have proofed everything several times and had someone else also thoroughly review all the information.

• Don't abbreviate words except for name titles such as Mr., Mrs., etc. Names of streets, cities and states should not be shortened but instead entirely spelled out.

• Don't include your gift registry information or monetary gift request on your invites. This type of information should be spread by word of mouth or you may want to include an insert listing your wedding website if you have created one. Websites are a great place to reveal that type of information to guests.

• Don't print the words 'no children' on the invitations even if that is your wish. Instead, exclude their names as well as the phrase 'and family' on the envelope which should give the hint that they are not invited. Word can also be spread about this detail by family and friends.

• Don't stuff the envelopes until after they have been hand addressed to avoid an uneven writing surface and making indentations on your invitations.

• Don't use printed mailing labels when it comes to addressing your invitation envelopes. Names and addresses should be handwritten according to etiquette and for a personal touch.

• Don't include adult children living at home on the family invitation since anyone age 18 and older should receive their own invite.

• Don't include response card envelopes without postage already attached. It's a common courtesy so guests can easily mail them back.

• Don't mail your invitations without listing a return address so the Post Office can return any undeliverable ones.

• Don't guess as to how much postage is needed for mailing your wedding invites. Have one ready-to-mail invitation weighed at the Post Office to find out the proper amount required for each one.

• Don't overlook sending thank you cards to all those who attended, participated in your wedding or remembered you with a gift. Your thank you notes will be greatly appreciated.

When it comes to your wedding invitations, you can see there are many details you don't want to forget.