George Boyle
Wedding envelope etiquette is a tricky business. While most wedding envelopes follow a standard format, there are some variations. For instance, the return address is typically printed on the back flap or the upper left corner of the envelope. However, some sources suggest that this can cause issues with postal services scanning the wrong address and routing the invitation back to the sender. In this case, it is recommended to hand-stamp the envelopes or ask the postal service to hand cancel them. Other sources suggest that the return address should be on the same side as the delivery address, which is on the front side of the envelope. This ensures that the invitation is delivered correctly and any gifts or RSVPs are sent to the correct address.
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What You'll Learn
Wedding envelope etiquette
The return address is typically printed on the back flap or the upper left corner of the envelope. It can be handwritten, calligraphed, or printed onto an address label. Traditional etiquette suggests writing out titles, street names, and states in full, just as you would on the front side.
If you opt for the back flap, there is a risk that your invitations may be returned to you if the envelopes are placed in the machine upside down, causing your address to be read as the "send-to" address. However, this issue is rare, and some couples choose the back flap for aesthetic reasons. To avoid this problem, you can hand-stamp your invitations or ask your postal service to hand-cancel them.
If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only needs to go on the back flap of the outermost envelope. Formally, no names are included on the outer envelope, but it is acceptable to include them if desired. The inner envelope should only include the name of the recipient, with no address information necessary.
The outer envelope should include the recipient's full mailing address, placed in the center of its front side. If your invitation suite is elaborate, you may also choose to include a stylish inner envelope that is protected by a more durable outer envelope.
Finally, when addressing your envelopes, do not use your married name without adding "the future" or "soon-to-be." Use your full names, with or without courtesy titles. If your wedding is large, consider including both your first and last name so that guests unfamiliar with you can identify who is inviting them.
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Return address on the back flap vs. upper left corner
Wedding invitation envelopes are a very important part of the wedding planning process. There are differing opinions on whether the return address should be on the back flap or the upper left corner of the envelope.
Some sources suggest that the return address should be on the back flap of the envelope. This is because it is the standard way of addressing wedding envelopes and is considered aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, the back flap can accommodate larger calligraphy or stamps without making the envelope look cluttered. It is also traditionally the address that guests will use to send their gifts to the couple.
However, there is a risk that if the envelope is placed in the machine upside down, it may be routed back to the sender, as the return address may be read as the "send-to" address. This can cause delays and additional work, as the invitations will need to be physically brought to the post office for re-sorting.
On the other hand, some sources recommend putting the return address in the upper left corner of the envelope, which is the side with the stamp. This is in line with USPS guidelines, which specify that the delivery and return addresses should be printed on the same side of the envelope, parallel to the longest side. Following this format can help avoid issues with USPS sorting machines misreading the address.
Ultimately, the decision of where to place the return address depends on personal preference and the specific circumstances of the wedding. Some couples may prioritize adhering to traditional etiquette, while others may opt for the method that minimizes the risk of postal errors.
To mitigate potential issues, some couples choose to hand-deliver their invitations to the post office and request that they be hand-stamped or hand-cancelled instead of put through the machine. This allows them to point out any unique characteristics of the envelopes and ensure proper handling.
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Issues with returned invitations
Wedding planning can be stressful, and one of the most important aspects is ensuring that your invitations reach your guests without a hitch. However, sometimes things don't go according to plan, and you might encounter issues with returned invitations. Here are some common problems and potential solutions to consider:
Returned to Sender
One of the most significant concerns is having your invitations returned to you, marked as undeliverable. This can happen due to various reasons, such as incorrect or outdated addresses, issues with the post office, or even machine scanning errors. To mitigate this issue, double-check all addresses for accuracy and consider hand-delivering your invitations to the post office. Ask the staff to hand-stamp or hand-cancel them, ensuring they are processed correctly. Taking these steps should help reduce the chances of your invitations being returned.
Lost in the Mail
Another frustrating issue is when invitations seem to disappear into the postal void. This can be attributed to several factors, including busy postal seasons, human error, or mechanical sorting issues. Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to prevent this problem entirely. However, you can increase the chances of successful delivery by choosing a reputable courier service, sending invitations well in advance, and following up with guests who haven't responded after a reasonable amount of time. It's also a good idea to have backup invitations ready to resend if needed.
Address Placement Concerns
The placement of the return address on the invitation envelope has sparked some debate. While some sources suggest placing it on the back flap, others argue that this might cause confusion during machine sorting, leading to returned invitations. To avoid this potential issue, consider following USPS guidelines, which recommend placing the delivery and return addresses on the same side of the envelope, parallel to the longest side. Alternatively, hand-cancelling your invitations at the post office can help ensure they are processed correctly, regardless of address placement.
Calligraphy and Legibility
Using calligraphy for your invitations adds a touch of elegance, but it might come with potential pitfalls. Sometimes, the machines used by postal services may have difficulty reading certain calligraphy styles, especially when it comes to state abbreviations. To avoid this issue, consider using clear and concise printing for essential address information, while still incorporating calligraphy for decorative elements if desired.
Remember, while issues with returned invitations can be frustrating, they don't have to ruin your wedding planning experience. Being proactive, staying organised, and following the suggestions outlined above can help ensure that your invitations reach their intended recipients, allowing you to focus on the joy of your upcoming celebration.
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Using an embosser or stamp for the return address
Embossers
Embossers create a raised imprint on the paper, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to your wedding invitations. You can choose from various styles, such as desk embossers or pocket embossers, to suit your needs. Desk embossers are designed to attach to the side of your desk for a strong, consistent impression, while pocket embossers are convenient for carrying with you on the go. When embossing envelope flaps, it is recommended to use a bottom embosser for the best results.
One consideration to keep in mind is that embossing creates a raised print, which may be harder to see, especially if the invitations are being mailed overseas. Some couples have expressed concern that the raised print could get squished during transit, affecting the legibility of the address. Additionally, embossers can be challenging to use and may cause hand cramps if you have a large number of invitations to address.
Stamps
Personalized stamps are a popular choice for wedding invitations, as they add a unique and personalized touch. You can find a variety of designs on sites like Etsy, including custom stamps with silhouettes or ampersands. Stamps with coloured ink tend to show up better and can add a stylish element to your invitations. Stamps are generally easier and faster to use than embossers, especially if you have a large number of invitations to address.
When choosing a stamp, consider opting for a separate ink pad, as this will allow you to reuse the stamp by simply replacing the ink pad when it dries out. Stamps are also versatile and can be used on various materials, such as thank-you notes, birthday cards, and even bills.
In conclusion, both embossers and stamps can be excellent choices for adding your return address to your wedding invitations. Consider your personal preferences, the desired level of elegance or sophistication, and the practical considerations of ease of use and legibility when making your decision.
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Including names in the return address
When it comes to including names in the return address on wedding invitation envelopes, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to distinguish between the outer envelope and the response or RSVP envelope. Formally, no names are included on the outer envelope, only the return address. However, it is becoming more common for couples to include names in the return address on the outer envelope, especially if the wedding is less formal.
If you decide to include names on the outer envelope, the traditional format is to use the names of the bride's parents, as they usually host and pay for the wedding. For example: 'Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson, 12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama, 36695'. If the wedding is being hosted and paid for by both families, or the couple themselves, the return address can include the names of the bride and groom: 'Ms. Margot Ronan and Mx. Jax Logan'.
It is worth noting that, according to United States Postal Service (USPS) guidelines, the optimal return address placement is in the upper left corner of the envelope, with the text positioned for maximum visibility. This helps to ensure quick automated sorting and delivery. Placing the return address on the back flap of the envelope may result in some invitations being returned to the sender, as they can be scanned in backwards by postal machines.
However, some couples prefer the back flap for aesthetic reasons, to avoid clutter on the front of the envelope, or to showcase calligraphy or a regal design. If you choose to put the return address on the back flap, it is recommended to hand-deliver the invitations to the post office and ask for them to be hand-stamped or hand-cancelled to avoid potential issues.
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Frequently asked questions
It is generally acceptable to put your return address on the back flap of your wedding invitation envelope. However, some people have reported issues with their invitations being returned to them because the envelopes were put into the machine upside down and their address was read as the "send-to" address.
To avoid issues with your invitations being returned, you can hand-deliver them to your local post office and ask them to hand-stamp or hand-cancel them. This ensures that your invitations are processed correctly and reduces the risk of them being returned due to machine errors.
If you prefer not to put your return address on the back flap, you can follow traditional etiquette and place it in the upper left corner of the envelope, on the same side as the stamp. This is the placement recommended by the USPS to avoid potential sorting issues.
Yes, you can use a return address stamp, label, or embosser to apply your return address to the envelope. This method can be used in conjunction with placing your return address on the back flap or in the upper left corner, depending on your preference and the style of your invitations.
