Ampersands On Wedding Invites: Yes Or No?

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your wedding vision and set the tone for your big day. While the invitation design and wording are important, the way you address your envelopes also matters. The use of an ampersand in wedding invitations is a debated topic, with some sources advising against it, while others consider it acceptable under certain conditions. So, can you use an ampersand in a wedding invitation?

Using '&' instead of 'and' between names

The use of an ampersand in wedding invitations is a divisive topic. While some sources claim that it is acceptable to use an ampersand in place of 'and' between names, others disagree. Those who approve of the use of an ampersand state that it is a matter of aesthetics and can be useful when trying to save space. On the other hand, those who disapprove of the practice argue that it is an abbreviation and therefore inappropriate for formal wedding invitations, which should instead spell out the word 'and'.

If you are aiming for a highly formal wedding, it is probably best to avoid using an ampersand in your invitations. This is because, traditionally, formal invitations should be written out in full, without abbreviations. However, if your wedding is more on the casual side, or if you are trying to save space, using an ampersand could be a good solution. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use an ampersand is up to you and should be based on the style and formality of your wedding.

It is worth noting that, according to one source, the use of an ampersand is acceptable according to Emily Post, Crane's Blue Book, and Amy Vanderbilt, but only if it is an artistic part of the invitation design.

Using '&' when addressing a married couple

When addressing a married couple, there are a few rules to follow. Firstly, it is important to use the complete, formal names of the couple, including their titles. The titles Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., and Dr. are acceptable, but all other titles should be written out in full. For example, it would be correct to write "Mr. and Mrs. Walter Stuart Brown" or "Dr. and Mrs. Henry Kelly". The use of "Mx." as a gender-neutral title is also acceptable.

If the couple has the same last name, their names should be included on the same line, with the husband's name appearing first, followed by the wife's name. For example, "Mr. John and Mrs. Jane Doe". If the wife has chosen to keep her maiden name or prefers the title "Ms.", this can also be included, for example, "Mr. John Doe and Ms. Jane Smith".

If the couple has different last names, the person you are closest with should be listed first. If you are equally close to both members of the couple, their names should be listed alphabetically by last name. For example, "Mrs. Kristen Walter and Mr. Robert Banter".

When addressing a married couple with children, the children's names should be listed on a separate line underneath the parents' names. Only children under the age of 18 should be included on the invitation. Children over the age of 18 should receive their own invitation.

It is important to note that the use of an ampersand ("&") is not standard practice when addressing a married couple. Instead, the full word "and" should be used. This is because the ampersand is considered an abbreviation and abbreviations are generally not used in formal invitations.

Using '&' when addressing an unmarried couple

When addressing an unmarried couple on a wedding invitation, it is important to follow certain etiquette rules to ensure that the invitation is both proper and respectful. Here are some guidelines to follow when addressing an unmarried couple:

Names and Titles

It is customary to include both individuals' names on the invitation, even if you are closer to one person than the other. The names should be written on separate lines, with the person you are closest to, or the woman's name, appearing first. If you are inviting a couple with the same gender, order their names alphabetically by last name. Use appropriate titles such as "Mr." for men and "Miss" or "Ms." for women. For example, "Mr. Craig Halter and Guest" or "Ms. Nancy Fellows and Mr. Scott Dunn".

Address Format

When writing the address, avoid using abbreviations or initials and instead, spell out the full address, including the street type (e.g. "Street", "Boulevard"). Write out the state name in full rather than using the two-letter postal code abbreviation. If you are using both inner and outer envelopes, the outer envelope should be more formal, including titles and full names, while the inner envelope can be more informal, including only first names or familiar names such as "Aunt Becky & Uncle Raul".

Use of Ampersand

While the ampersand ("&") is commonly used as a shorthand way to connect two names, it is not considered proper etiquette for wedding invitations. Instead, use the full word "and" to connect the names of the unmarried couple. This maintains a formal and respectful tone.

Inner Envelope

The inner envelope is typically used for more informal addressing and includes only the first names or familiar names of the invitees. If you are inviting children as well, their names can be listed on a separate line below the parents' names, in order of age from oldest to youngest.

Plus-One

If you are inviting a guest who is in a relationship but you do not know the name of their partner, it is acceptable to write "and Guest" in lowercase. This can be included on the inner envelope if you are using two envelopes, or on the outer envelope if you are only using one.

In conclusion, when addressing an unmarried couple on a wedding invitation, it is important to follow the proper etiquette guidelines. Use appropriate titles, write out the full address, avoid the ampersand, and include "and Guest" if necessary. By following these guidelines, you can create a respectful and elegant invitation that sets the tone for your wedding.

Using '&' when addressing a single man or woman with a guest

When addressing a wedding invitation to a single man or woman with a guest, there are a few etiquette rules to follow. Firstly, it is generally advised to avoid using an ampersand (&) in wedding invitations, as this can be seen as informal. Instead, write out the full "and" when addressing guests. For a single man with a guest, the outer envelope should be addressed to the man, using his full name and title, e.g. "Mr. John Williams". The inner envelope can then be addressed to "Mr. John Williams and Guest". If you are only using one envelope, it is best to include a short note with the invitation, such as "Dear John, you're welcome to bring a guest to the wedding. Please let me know. Best, [your name]".

For a single woman with a guest, the same rules apply. The outer envelope should be addressed to the woman, using her full name and title, e.g. "Miss/Ms. Emily Jones". The inner envelope can then be addressed to "Miss/Ms. Emily Jones and Guest". Again, if you are only using one envelope, include a short note to let the guest know they are welcome to bring a plus-one.

It is worth noting that the use of "Miss" and "Ms." depends on the age and marital status of the woman in question. "Miss" is typically used for an unmarried woman under 21, while "Ms." is used for an unmarried woman over 21. If the woman is a doctor, her title can be used instead, e.g. "Doctor Emily Jones".

In terms of formatting, it is best to write out all words in full, including titles, street names, and state names. Avoid using abbreviations, except for the titles mentioned above (Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., Dr.). Middle names can be included if you know them, otherwise, they should be omitted.

Using '&' when addressing a married couple who are both doctors

The use of an ampersand on a wedding invitation is acceptable in some instances but not in others. While it is generally discouraged in formal invitations, it can be used in less formal ones, especially for aesthetic reasons or to save space.

Now, when addressing a married couple who are both doctors, there are a few ways to go about it. Here are 4 to 6 paragraphs with different options:

Option 1: Drs. [Husband's first name] and [Wife's first name] [Last name]

This option is a standard way to address a married couple who are both doctors and is considered correct in both social and business contexts. It is also a good choice if you want to maintain a formal tone.

Option 2: The Doctors [Last name]

This option is similar to the first one but with a slight variation. Instead of using the "Drs." title, you can use "The Doctors" followed by the last name of the couple. This is another formal option that recognises the professional titles of both spouses.

Option 3: Dr. [Husband's first name] and Dr. [Wife's first name] [Last name]

This option spells out the "Doctor" title for each spouse, providing a clear indication of their professional status. It is a good choice if you want to emphasise their titles and maintain a formal tone.

Option 4: Dr. [Wife's first name] and Mr. [Last name] or Dr. [Wife's first name] and Mr. [Husband's first name] [Last name]

In this option, you would start with the wife's name and professional title, followed by the husband's name and the appropriate title. This breaks from the traditional order of putting the man's name first. However, it is appropriate when the wife has a higher title, such as in the case of a PhD. This option may be suitable if you want to prioritise titles over marital status.

Option 5: Dr. [Wife's name] and Mr. [Husband's name] [Last name]

This option is similar to the previous one but swaps the order of the names, putting the husband's name first. This adheres to the traditional practice of listing the man's name before the woman's. However, please note that this option may not be suitable if you want to prioritise the wife's professional title.

Remember, when addressing wedding invitations, it is essential to consider the couple's preferences and the level of formality you want to convey. The options provided above offer a range of choices to suit different situations and etiquette standards.

Frequently asked questions