How to advise dress code {formal casual cocktail}

Don't put it on the invites. If someone asks dress code, spread it by word of mouth.
Honestly, I dress for a wedding based on how the invite looks. Pick an invite that looks formal, then you shouldn't have to worry too much.

I would say 'cocktail attire' is appropriate.

Don't list a dress code unless the event is actually a black or white tie event. Use a more formal invitation with more traditional wording and your guests will understand the vibe you are going for. Worst case scenario, a few people show up in boots, they have a good time, and you'll still be married when the day is done

I would just spread it by word of mouth unless you have are expecting black tie. Most adults know hope they should dress for a wedding.

I think my concern is the name of the venue because the name sounds so casual.

View Quoted Comment I wouldn't worry about it. In general people know how to dress for a wedding. Those who don't wouldn't get it regardless of what you try to communicate. Cousin Eddie is showing up in a tee shirt and boots no matter what he is told, he'll look ridiculous as always and Grandma will smack his hand just like she always does. Let today be the last day you worry about it and move on to fun stuff!

It is not good etiquette to list a dress code on an invitation. Even if it were, people who are going to dress inappropriately for a wedding, will do it anyway. Someone who is going to dress for a hoedown when they are going to a wedding, is not going to be deterred by your dress code.

That's info for your website

Make a website and put it on there. Not on you invite.

I had a similar type venue. I spread it by word of mouth....mostly because I forgot to put cocktail attire on the invites and we didn't bother with a wedding website.

I found out people were calling my mother and saying things like "oh, it's in a barn! I can wear jeans then right?". The name of my venue is "Barn on Enchanted Acres"... it's a barn in exterior design only.

My mother dealt with most of our family in terms of questions and things, so she was really good about shutting the casual wear thing down pretty quick. And she made sure that everyone spread the word to everyone else.

Word of mouth worked out pretty well, everyone was dressed appropriately.