Lyla Dejesus
Wedding invitations are a key part of wedding planning. The return address is an important component of the invitation envelope, ensuring that guests know where to send their RSVPs and gifts. Traditionally, the return address is placed on the back flap of the envelope, but some couples opt for the front for aesthetic reasons. The return address is usually the residence of the hosts, who will receive gifts and undelivered invitations. While there are no hard and fast rules, it's important to consider both style and practicality when deciding on the placement of the return address.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Return address placement | Front of the envelope (upper left corner) or back flap of the envelope |
| Return address format | Formal: no names, only address. Informal: first names only, first and last names, last names plus wedding, or no name at all |
| Return address options | Return address labels, pre-printed return address on the envelope, return address stamps, calligraphy return address |
| Visibility and deliverability | Front placement maximizes visibility in postal processing |
| Design simplicity | Back placement creates an unbroken canvas for a striking back envelope design |
| Space constraints | Front placement limits space for decorative fonts, illustrations, or embellishments |
| Aesthetic concerns | Front placement may not suit highly formal wedding themes |
What You'll Learn
Return address placement
When it comes to return address placement, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the return address typically goes on the back flap of the outer invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. If you're using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only needs to go on the outermost envelope's back flap.
Now, let's discuss some placement specifics. While it's common to put the return address in the top left corner of the envelope for regular mail, it's preferable to use the back flap for wedding invitations. This is because it adds a formal touch to your invitations and reduces the risk of postal confusion, ensuring your invitations reach their intended recipients.
To ensure your envelopes make it back to you in case of any delivery issues, clearly write or print your return address. You can also use mailing labels, return address stamps, or even opt for calligraphy to make your envelopes stand out.
- Format: Traditionally, only the physical address is listed on the outer envelope, with no names. However, it's becoming more acceptable to include names, especially on the response envelope. For a formal affair, consider using the format "Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]" followed by the address. For a casual approach, use first names or first and last names.
- Consistency: Maintain consistency in style and format between the return address and the guest address. This creates a cohesive and elegant look.
- Legibility: Ensure your return address is written clearly and legibly to avoid any postal mishaps.
- Host Address: Traditionally, the return address is that of the person or couple hosting the wedding. This is usually the bride's parents, but it can also be the couple themselves or another host.
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Return address etiquette
Return addresses on wedding invitations are essential to ensure that lost mail finds its way back to you for resending. Without it, your invitations could disappear into the mail abyss forever.
The return address tells guests two things: where gifts are to be mailed and where the response is supposed to be mailed. If someone is unable to attend your wedding or if they would like to send their gift in advance, they will send their gift to the address on the back flap of your invitation envelope.
Traditionally, the return address is placed on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only goes on the back flap of the outermost envelope. There is no need for a return address on the inner envelope.
Formally, the return address should be handwritten, but it is now acceptable for this to be printed, to use a mailing label, or a return address stamp.
In most cases, you will use the same address for both the back flap of your invitation envelope and the front of your RSVP envelope. Traditionally, the hosts of the event will collect both gifts and RSVPs for the couple. However, there may be situations where you would like gifts mailed to the bride's parents' address (especially if they arrive while you're on your honeymoon) and replies sent to the bride's address.
The return address should be the address of the person or persons hosting the event. For example, if the bride's parents are hosting the wedding, the invitations should use the parents' address.
There are different ways to format the return address. You can include names and addresses, or just the address. If you include names, traditionally, only the bride's name is included if the couple is unmarried and living together. Nowadays, it is also acceptable to include both names, but not combined (e.g., Alex and John Smith).
If you are using the front of the envelope for the return address, the United States Postal Service guidelines state that the optimal position is the upper left corner with the return address text 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom.
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Return address options
The return address on a wedding invitation is important as it tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. Here are some options for including a return address on your wedding invitations:
Return Address Labels
Return address labels are a simple and well-known option. They can be printed at most printing shops or designed and printed at home on label paper. This option is affordable and convenient, but may look inelegant, especially if using white labels on coloured envelopes.
Pre-Printed Return Address on Envelope
When ordering envelopes online, you can often have your return address pre-printed for a small fee. This saves time as there is no need to stick, stamp, or write the address. However, this option may incur an extra cost and lead time for printing, and it may be difficult to find matching envelopes if you run out.
Return Address Stamp
Similar to labels, you can order a custom return address stamp to use on your envelopes. This option allows for a cohesive style with the guest address if using calligraphy. There are various ink colours available to match the guest address. However, this option may be more costly and time-consuming as each envelope needs to be stamped individually.
Calligraphy Return Address
The most luxurious option is to have a calligrapher write your return address. This ensures a 100% match in writing style and ink colour to the guest address. However, this is also the most expensive option as it takes the most time for the calligrapher.
Front or Back of the Envelope
When deciding where to place your return address, there are a few things to consider. The United States Postal Service recommends placing the return address on the front of the envelope in the upper left corner for optimal visibility and processing success. Placing it on the back of the envelope may increase the risk of compromised visibility and delivery issues. However, a back envelope return address can provide a broader canvas for artistic expressions and emphasise key details like the recipient's address and wedding date. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and whether you prioritise mail delivery or design aesthetics.
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Outer and inner envelopes
Wedding invitations traditionally consist of an inner and an outer envelope. The outer envelope is larger and contains the recipient's name, street address, return address, and postage. The inner envelope is smaller and usually includes only the name of the person or people being invited.
The outer envelope serves to protect the inner envelope and its contents from damage during delivery. In the past, when mail was delivered by hand, envelopes could get dirty on the way to their destination. The outer envelope kept the inner envelope clean and undamaged. Even today, envelopes can get torn or bent, so having an extra layer of protection for your invitations is a good idea.
The inner envelope is usually not sealed with a gummed flap. You can either tuck the flap inside or place a seal on top of the flap to seal it loosely. The inner envelope should be addressed as if you are hand-delivering it. This envelope is more informal and gives you the option to be creative when listing individual names. For example, you can use nicknames such as "Grandpa" or "Papa B" instead of the person's full name.
The outer envelope should be formal and include the recipient's full name, including their personal title(s). This format works for couples of all genders who may or may not share a surname. However, if you feel that personal titles might be restrictive for your guest list, you can forgo them and use only first and last names.
If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer) for your invitations, the return address only goes on the back flap of the outer envelope. There is no need for a return address on the inner envelope. Formally, the return address should be handwritten, but it is also acceptable to have it printed or use a mailing label or a return address stamp.
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Postage and handling
Now that you've got your wedding invitations ready to go, it's time to think about postage and handling to ensure they reach your guests safely. Here are some tips to consider:
Weigh Your Invitations
It's important to determine the correct postage for your invitations. Bring a complete invitation suite, including any enclosures and RSVP cards with their envelopes, to your local post office to have them weighed. Many invitations require postage for more than one ounce, which usually exceeds the cost of a first-class stamp. By weighing them beforehand, you can ensure you're applying the correct amount of postage.
Choose Your Stamps
There are various options for stamps to consider. You can purchase vintage stamps from philatelic societies, which add a unique touch but may be more expensive due to their collectibility. Alternatively, you can customize your stamps through websites like zazzle.com to match your wedding theme or incorporate a monogram. You can also opt for standard stamps available at your local post office or online at usps.com.
Hand-Canceling
To keep your invitations neat and prevent damage caused by machines, consider requesting hand-canceling at your post office. This involves manually marking each stamp instead of using an automated ink-canceling device, ensuring proper postage and reducing the risk of damage. Calling ahead to confirm the availability of this service and any associated fees is recommended.
Return Address Placement
The placement of your return address is crucial for ensuring the safe delivery of your invitations. The United States Postal Service (USPS) recommends placing the return address in the upper left corner of the envelope, with the address text 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom. This maximizes visibility during postal processing and reduces the risk of mail errors.
However, some couples may prefer to place the return address on the back flap of the envelope, especially if they prioritize a clean, uncluttered look on the front or wish to adhere to traditional etiquette. While this provides more design freedom, it may increase the risk of compromised visibility and delivery issues. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your personal preference and whether you prioritize practicality or aesthetics.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the return address is important as it tells guests where to send their RSVP and any gifts if they are unable to attend.
Traditionally, the return address goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope. However, some couples prefer to put it on the front in the upper left corner to increase visibility for postal workers.
The return address should be handwritten or printed in black ink. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed and no names. However, it is becoming more common to include names, especially on the response envelope.
You can use return address labels, have the return address pre-printed on the envelope, or use a custom return address stamp. For a more elegant option, consider hiring a calligrapher to write the return address.
