Junior Rasmussen
Licking envelopes is a common practice, but some may find it unsanitary or tedious, especially when sealing a large number of envelopes for wedding invitations. While some people opt for traditional licking, others prefer using sponges, paper towels, glue sticks, or envelope sealers to avoid unpleasant tastes and the risk of contamination. This topic has sparked discussions on forums, with some sharing creative alternatives and others questioning the necessity of sealing envelopes at all. The choice between licking and alternative methods depends on personal preference and the number of envelopes to be sealed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of envelopes | 75-150 |
| Alternatives to licking | Use a sponge, paper towel, Q-tip, glue stick, envelope sealer, or a small brush |
| Drawbacks of licking | Unsanitary, time-consuming, and monotonous |
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What You'll Learn
Alternatives to licking wedding envelopes
There are several alternatives to licking wedding envelopes. Some methods involve using a tool with a sponge tip, such as a sponge paintbrush, a sponge bottle, or a cotton swab, to apply water to the adhesive. Others include using a paper towel, either dampened or in combination with a glue stick. Some people also suggest using stickers or wax seals to fasten envelopes without licking.
One option is to use a sponge paintbrush or a regular sponge. Dip it in a small bowl of water, then dab the excess water onto a paper towel before running it over the adhesive strip. This method can be a bit messy, so be careful not to smudge the envelopes.
Another option is to use a cotton swab or Q-tip. Dip the end of the swab in a small amount of water, then lightly swipe it across the adhesive edge of the envelope. This method is neat and works well, especially for bridal shower and wedding invitations.
If you want a quicker and less awful-tasting alternative to licking, try using a damp paper towel. This method is also convenient and can be used in combination with a glue stick for added adhesion. Simply dab the glue stick onto the damp paper towel before applying it to the envelope flap.
You can also seal envelopes with stickers or wax seals. Stickers are an easy and mess-free option, while wax seals can add a luxurious and personalised touch to your wedding invitations.
Finally, you can use envelope moisteners, which are handheld devices that dispense fluid onto the glue portion of the envelope. This method is neat and convenient, but you may need to purchase the device specifically for this purpose.
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Using a calligrapher for wedding envelopes
Wedding calligraphy is a beautiful addition to any event, bringing an elegant, formal look to wedding stationery. It is an art form that takes time and practice to master, so it is important to work with a professional stationer.
The cost of hiring a calligrapher varies depending on their experience, the time it takes to complete an order, and the materials used. On average, the price falls between $2.50 and $6 per envelope for the front address, with place card calligraphy costing slightly lower at around $2 per card. If you only want a few words written in calligraphy, spot calligraphy is a good option, with digital files provided to add to your invitations, starting at around $100.
You can find calligraphers on Instagram by searching hashtags such as #citynamewedding and #citynamecalligraphy. You can also try searching Facebook groups for your area, or look for a calligraphy guild in your city. Etsy and WeddingWire are also great resources for finding calligraphers.
If you are considering doing your own calligraphy, be aware that it is a huge time investment, even for a small number of envelopes. It can be a fun activity and adds a personal touch, but it can also be stressful, so consider the number of guests you'll have and if you can handle writing that many invites.
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Licking 75+ envelopes
One alternative method is to use a damp sponge, washcloth, or paper towel to wet the adhesive. This can be quicker and less unpleasant than licking. It is important to ensure that the sponge or cloth is not too wet, or the envelopes may become wrinkled. A small, clean sponge can be used to avoid making a mess.
Another option is to use a cotton swab or Q-tip. This method involves dipping the end of the swab in water and lightly swiping it across the adhesive. This is a cheap and neat way to seal envelopes.
There are also envelope sealers, which are hand-held devices that dispense fluid onto the glue portion of the envelope. Envelope sealers can be filled with water or liquid glue.
Glue sticks are another popular alternative to licking envelopes. Standard school glue sticks can be used, or you can purchase glue sticks specifically designed for envelopes.
Some people also use stickers, seals, or tape to seal their envelopes. These can be purchased from craft stores or online.
Overall, there are many alternatives to licking 75+ envelopes, and most of them are simple, cheap, and effective.
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Dangers of licking envelopes
Licking envelopes is generally considered safe, and the raw materials used in envelope adhesives are usually non-toxic and safe for human contact. However, there are some potential dangers and health risks associated with this practice. Firstly, some people may experience minor irritation or an unpleasant taste in their mouths after licking envelopes. This can be avoided by using alternative sealing methods such as sponges, self-adhesive envelopes, or glue sticks.
Another potential risk is the spread of germs and bacteria from the licker to the recipient of the envelope. While this is unlikely to cause any serious harm, it is still a valid concern, especially during times of increased disease transmission such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, there is a risk of ingesting too much glue if a large number of envelopes need to be sealed, which can be unpleasant and potentially harmful.
Furthermore, some people have a fear of getting a paper cut on their tongue while licking an envelope, which can be uncomfortable and lead to further health complications. While this may seem unlikely, it is a valid concern for some individuals. Additionally, the production and disposal of traditional envelopes can have negative environmental impacts, which may be a consideration for those who are environmentally conscious.
Overall, while the occasional licking of envelopes is unlikely to cause significant health issues, there are valid concerns and potential dangers associated with this practice. It is always recommended to consider alternative sealing methods to reduce the risk of any adverse effects on health and the environment.
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Using stickers to seal wedding envelopes
Licking envelopes to seal them can be a tedious task, especially when sending out wedding invitations. Some calligraphers advise against using any "device" to seal envelopes, as it may smear the ink. However, there are alternatives to licking envelopes, such as using stickers. Here are some tips for using stickers to seal wedding envelopes:
Choosing the Right Stickers
Select stickers that complement your wedding theme and colours. You can opt for vibrant colours and a high-gloss finish to make a statement or go for a minimalistic look with matte finishings and muted colours. Round stickers are a classic choice for envelope seals and come in various sizes. You can also print custom designs on sticker sheets to add a personal touch.
Ensuring Secure Adhesion
To ensure that your stickers securely seal your envelopes, choose those with strong adhesive backing. You may also consider using a glue stick to enhance adhesion, especially if you're concerned about the stickers holding during mailing.
Enhancing the Presentation
In addition to sealing the envelopes, you can use stickers to decorate them. Consider using stickers with intricate designs or your initials to add a touch of elegance. You can also coordinate the stickers with other wedding stationery, such as placing a matching sticker on the invitation and envelope flap for a cohesive look.
Mailing Considerations
If you plan to use wax seal stickers, be aware that they may require special handling by the postal service. Some couples choose to double envelope their invitations to ensure the seals remain intact during mailing. Alternatively, you can use stickers as envelope seals and incorporate wax seals as part of your wedding decor, such as on favour bags or place cards.
Using stickers to seal your wedding envelopes offers a convenient and customisable option. By choosing the right stickers and considering mailing requirements, you can ensure that your invitations arrive securely and make a lasting impression on your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you don't have to lick wedding envelopes. There are many other ways to seal envelopes, such as using a sponge, a paper towel, a glue stick, or an envelope sealer.
Licking a large number of envelopes can be time-consuming and unpleasant. There is also a risk of transferring germs to the envelope, which could potentially cause illness in the recipient.
Alternative ways to seal wedding envelopes without licking them include using a damp sponge, a paper towel, a glue stick, an envelope sealer, or a cotton swab dipped in water.
Some people have reported cuts on their tongues from licking envelopes, which can lead to infections. There are also stories, such as the one from Seinfeld, where a character dies from licking cheap wedding invitations.
You can use standard school glue sticks or purchase glue sticks specifically designed for sealing envelopes. Ensure that the glue stick is labelled as "dry clear" to avoid staining the envelopes.
