Franklin Dean
Wedding invitations are a time-consuming task, with many rules to follow. One of these is whether to handwrite addresses on the envelopes. While it is not necessary, many people believe that hand-addressed envelopes are more personal and traditional. However, modern printing equipment can now achieve luxurious results, with custom envelope designs and calligraphy-inspired fonts. So, what should you do?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should wedding invitations be hand-addressed? | Yes, as a rule of thumb, wedding invitations should be hand-addressed. |
| What if your handwriting is not nice enough for hand addressing? | If your handwriting isn't the nicest, that’s OK. You can hire a calligrapher to do it for you or print the addresses on the envelopes. |
| Do you hand-address the return address? | You don’t need to use handwriting on the return address. Instead, you can use a stamp. |
| What are the options for addressing invitations? | Option 1: Hand Addressing; Option 2: Print Addresses on Envelopes. |
| Is it rude not to hand-write the envelopes? | Some people think it is rude not to hand-write the envelopes, but others disagree. |
| How do you make printed envelopes look more personal? | Use a font that’s more scripted, and print directly onto the envelopes rather than onto labels. |
| What is the traditional way to address a wedding invitation? | Traditionally, the inner and outer envelopes follow different etiquette rules. The outer envelope should be formal, while the inner envelope is more informal. |
| How do you address a wedding invitation to a single person? | Use the person's preferred title, and include their name on both the outer and inner envelopes. |
| How do you address a wedding invitation to a family? | List the parent(s) or guardian(s) on the outer envelope, and each child's name on the inner envelope. |
| How do you address a wedding invitation to a married couple? | Put their names on the same line on the outer envelope, and you can list their names separately or use "Mr. and Mrs." on the inner envelope. |
| How do you address a wedding invitation to an unmarried couple? | Include both names on separate lines on the outer envelope, and you can list their names separately or together on the inner envelope. |
What You'll Learn
Handwriting vs. printing
Wedding invitations are a time-consuming task, and addressing envelopes by hand can be a painstaking process. So, is it handwrite or print?
Handwriting:
Handwriting addresses on wedding invitations is a traditional and personal approach. It adds a special touch, and some consider it more polite. It is also flexible, as you can choose to write in calligraphy, cursive, or your standard handwriting.
However, handwriting can be time-consuming and prone to errors, which may result in wasted envelopes and increased costs. It may also be challenging to achieve a consistent and neat appearance, especially if you are not confident in your handwriting skills.
Printing:
Printing is a modern and convenient alternative to handwriting. It saves time and effort, and there is less risk of making mistakes. Printing can also achieve a luxurious and elegant look, mimicking calligraphy or handwritten styles.
On the other hand, printing requires additional equipment, such as a printer and ink, and may still result in errors if not done properly. Some may also view printing as less personal, even though there are now many elegant and calligraphy-inspired printed options available.
So, which is better?
Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Handwriting is traditional and adds a personal touch, but it is time-consuming and may be costly if you hire a calligrapher. Printing is efficient and can achieve a similar elegant look, but it may be seen as less thoughtful by some.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences, budget, and time constraints. If you value tradition and have the time, handwriting could be a meaningful choice. If you prefer convenience and modern aesthetics, printing may be the way to go.
Remember, the most important aspect is that your guests receive their invitations, so choose the method that works best for you!
Invitation Size for the Big Day
You may want to see also
Hiring a professional calligrapher
Calligraphy is a beautiful visual art form that can elevate your wedding stationery. It is a timeless art that adds a wow factor and a touch of formality to your wedding invitations. It sets the tone for your wedding and gives your guests a hint of what to expect on the big day.
When hiring a professional calligrapher, it is best to book them when you order your invitations, as client lists tend to fill up quickly. Additionally, calligraphic work is physically demanding, so there is a limit to the number of projects a calligrapher can take on. It is recommended to get on their production calendar as early as possible.
To find a calligrapher, you can start by contacting your local calligraphy guild or association. Most states or major cities have a calligraphy group, and many of them provide a list of local calligraphers or can connect you with their members. Word-of-mouth recommendations from people who have previously hired calligraphers for wedding invitations are also a great option.
Wording Wedding Invites: Accommodations Edition
You may want to see also
Etiquette and tradition
The rules of wedding etiquette are ever-changing, making it difficult for modern couples to keep up with the latest advice. However, the tradition of sending wedding invitations dates back to the Middle Ages when wealthy families would commission monks, skilled in calligraphy, to hand-craft their notices. Before this time, the town crier would announce an impending wedding.
Traditionalists argue that hand-addressed envelopes follow proper wedding protocol and etiquette. The key takeaway is that handwritten addresses are considered more personal for such a special occasion.
If you have beautiful handwriting, or know someone whose writing is, you may choose to handwrite your wedding invitation envelopes. This option is time-consuming and mistakes can lead to wasted envelopes and money. However, it is a good choice for those who want to follow tradition and add a personal touch.
If your handwriting isn't the best, you can hire a professional calligrapher to address your envelopes. This luxurious option can elevate your envelopes to frame-worthy pieces of art. However, calligraphy is time-consuming and can be expensive, with pricing ranging from $1 to $5+ per envelope.
For those who don't want to handwrite their envelopes or hire a calligrapher, there are other options that are still etiquette-approved. You can print the addresses on your envelopes, either at home or through a professional printing service. This option saves time and money and can still look elegant and personal.
When it comes to the return address, it is recommended to use a stamp instead of a label. Address labels are generally not considered appropriate for wedding invitations as they do not give a high-quality finish.
Ultimately, the decision of how to address your wedding invitations is up to you and your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. Whether you choose to handwrite, print, or hire a calligrapher, your guests will appreciate the gesture of receiving a wedding invitation.
Mailing Wedding Invites: How Long Does It Take?
You may want to see also
Cost and time considerations
Handwriting addresses on wedding invitations is a time-honoured tradition that conveys a personal touch. However, in today's fast-paced world, couples may opt for alternative methods that save time and money without compromising on aesthetics and etiquette.
Handwriting
Handwriting addresses can be a labour-intensive task, especially for couples with large guest lists. It demands careful planning, steady hands, and ample time to correct any mistakes. The cost of fancy pens, extra envelopes, and calligraphy services can quickly add up. Hiring a professional calligrapher is a luxurious option, with prices ranging from $1 to $5+ per envelope, depending on factors such as turnaround time, style, and materials. For those with the budget and inclination for calligraphy, it is essential to book early to avoid last-minute rush fees.
Printing
Printing addresses on envelopes is a modern and cost-effective approach. Online stationers like Minted offer free guest addressing services, providing elegant calligraphy-inspired fonts that mimic the look of professional calligraphy. This method saves time, money, and the stress of addressing each envelope individually. It also eliminates the risk of errors, which can result in wasted envelopes and delayed invitations. Printing is a convenient option, especially when coupled with the ability to upload contacts and coordinate envelope designs and colours.
Labels
Using labels to address envelopes is generally considered impolite in traditional wedding etiquette. However, clear labels printed from a home computer can be a viable option for those on a tight budget or with DIY inclinations. This method may require additional equipment and knowledge, and there is still a risk of errors, but it can be a more affordable choice.
Combination
For those who want to strike a balance between tradition and modernity, a combination of handwriting and printing can be considered. Handwriting the recipient's name and address while printing the return address can add a personal touch while saving time and effort. This approach allows for creativity in font choices and envelope designs, ensuring a unique and memorable invitation suite.
In conclusion, the decision to handwrite addresses on wedding invitations depends on various factors, including budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. While handwriting conveys a sense of tradition and personal touch, modern printing techniques offer elegant and efficient alternatives. Couples should weigh the costs and benefits of each option to make an informed decision that aligns with their vision for their special day.
Guide to Addressing Wedding Invites: Chinese Etiquette and Customs
You may want to see also
Addressing envelopes for different scenarios
There are several options for addressing envelopes for wedding invitations, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some scenarios to consider:
Scenario 1: Handwriting your own envelopes
Handwriting your wedding invitation envelopes is a traditional and etiquette-approved option. It adds a personal touch to your invitations and can make your guests feel special. However, it can be time-consuming and may not be suitable if you don't have neat handwriting.
Scenario 2: Hiring a professional calligrapher
If you want to elevate your envelopes and have the budget, hiring a professional calligrapher is an option. Calligraphy is a beautiful art form that can make your envelopes look elegant and frame-worthy. However, it can be expensive, with pricing ranging from $1 to $5+ per envelope, and you'll need to book in advance to secure a calligrapher.
Scenario 3: Using faux calligraphy
If you want the look of calligraphy without the high cost, you can try faux calligraphy. This involves writing the addresses in cursive and then reinforcing the downstrokes with a black pen to create the illusion of professional calligraphy. It's a DIY option that can save you money, but it still requires time and practice.
Scenario 4: Printing addresses on envelopes
Printing addresses on envelopes is a modern and cost-effective alternative to handwriting. It saves time, money, and the stress of addressing each envelope by hand. You can use a service like Minted to upload your contacts and have the addresses printed directly onto the envelopes. This option also allows you to choose calligraphy-inspired fonts that mimic the look of professional calligraphy.
Scenario 5: Using address labels
While not as elegant as handwritten or printed addresses, address labels can be a practical solution if you're short on time or prefer a more streamlined approach. Clear labels printed with a nice font can be an acceptable alternative, especially if you're DIYing your invitations. However, some people may consider labels less personal.
In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing wedding invitation envelopes. The best method depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. Whether you choose to handwrite, print, or use a professional service, the most important thing is to ensure that your guests feel welcomed and excited to celebrate your big day.
Forever Stamps for Wedding Invites: How Many Do You Need?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, you don't have to. You can print the addresses on the envelopes or use address labels, which is a more modern approach. However, hand-addressing invitations is considered more traditional and personal.
Handwriting addresses on wedding invitations can add a personal touch and make the invitation feel more special. It is also considered more traditional and can be a way to follow proper wedding etiquette and protocol.
Handwriting addresses can be time-consuming and costly, especially if you hire a professional calligrapher. It can also be challenging to achieve a luxurious and elegant result without professional help.
