Black Tie Optional?

What is it?

Ultimately, Jon and I want you to come to the wedding no matter how you are dressed. Nevertheless, if you would like to know what we actually mean by "Black Tie Optional"... the wedding is a formal occasion. The formality is due to the time of the wedding (it seems that noon is one of top formal wedding times); the size of the guest list; and the size of our wedding party.

The biggest thing to remember is that Black Tie Optional is not a step below semi-formal but a step above. Ultimately, it is a black/dark suit with option of a different conservative tie. The dark suit is not optional. I have noticed in the South that people tend think the term means that formal or informal attire should be worn as it is optional... though this is incorrect.

If you'd like to know more detail about what others are wearing please see:

Emily Post on Black Tie Optional


I hope this helps you all who are traveling from far away with packing as well.

**Also- thank you to you all who have completed an RSVP online and/or by mail. I have never received so many kind "accepts" or "regrets", despite our not requiring the RSVP. Jon and I both thank you.