Invitations are one of the important elements of a wedding. That’s because they provide guests with crucial information. And while some details of the wedding don't follow a strict set of rules, invitations (for the most part) do. Here are the answers to the most pressing wedding-invite-related questions.

When it’s best to send out invitations according to the wedding etiquette?

Answered: Top 5 Most Common Wedding Invitation Etiquette Questions

Normally, invitations go out six to eight weeks before the wedding — that gives the guests enough time to free up their schedules and make the needed travel arrangements if they don't live in town. If it's a destination wedding, guests should have more time, so it is better to send out the invitations three months ahead of time.

The wedding is only for adults (no kids). How to make sure this is clear to the guests?

If the invitations are addressed correctly—to each guest by name, not "and guest"—then, the guests should understand that the invite is meant only for those mentioned. If some of the guests reply with their children's names added, call them and explain that the wedding is only for adults and hope they can still attend. Newlyweds can even arrange for a babysitter if the family is big and there are a lot of kids. It's not necessary, but it's a nice gesture.

How to let guests know the dress code?

Answered: Top 5 Most Common Wedding Invitation Etiquette Questions

The dress code can be included in the lower right-hand corner of the invite or on a reception card. The most common and acceptable dress codes are "black tie," "casual attire," and "cocktail attire." The design of the invitation will also clue guests in. A more formal invite with letterpress and calligraphy suggests the formal nature of the event, whereas a square invite with bright colors and playful font would fit a much more casual style.

If the wedding reception is limited to immediate family, is it good to invite other people to the ceremony? What is the wedding etiquette for this?

Not really. Everyone who is going to attend the ceremony (or engagement party, bridal shower, or wedding reception) should be invited to the wedding—that means the ceremony and the reception.

Is it acceptable to refuse a friend who wants to bring someone unpopular to the wedding?

As a rule, wedding invitations are nontransferable when people are invited by name. People who don’t want a particular person to attend the wedding can explain that they’re not friendly with his/her friend's proposed guest, and they would prefer the wedding be limited to very good friends and family.