Etiquette Guide: Return Envelopes For Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are an important part of wedding planning, and there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they are mailed without a hitch. One question that often comes up is whether to include return envelopes for wedding invitations. While it is not mandatory, including return envelopes can be a thoughtful way to make it convenient for your guests to respond. Here are some considerations for including return envelopes:

- It is customary to allow your guests adequate time to respond to your invitation, usually about six to eight weeks before the wedding. Including a return envelope with a pre-addressed return address and postage can streamline the process for your guests and increase the likelihood of receiving timely responses.

- The return address typically goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope. It is important to ensure that the address is legible and follows the proper format to avoid any delays or confusion during delivery.

- If you choose to include return envelopes, it is a good idea to weigh the assembled invitation with the return envelope at the post office to determine the correct postage amount. This will help ensure that your guests do not have to pay for additional postage.

- Consider the overall cost and aesthetic of your wedding invitations when deciding whether to include return envelopes. Pre-printed envelopes or custom return address stamps can add a nice touch but may also increase expenses.

Return address placement

The return address typically goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelope. If you're using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only goes on the outer envelope.

According to the United States Postal Service, the optimal placement for the return address is the upper left corner, with the text positioned 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom. This ensures efficient processing and delivery.

However, some may prefer to prioritise aesthetics and opt for placing the return address on the back flap of the envelope. This provides a clean, uncluttered look, emphasising key details like the recipient's address and the wedding date. It also allows for more creative freedom in the front envelope design. Nevertheless, this approach may increase the risk of visibility and delivery issues, as it deviates from USPS guidelines.

Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and priorities. If ensuring timely delivery and adhering to USPS guidelines are top priorities, front placement is recommended. If design and aesthetics take precedence, back placement can be a stylish alternative, albeit with some associated risks.

Return address etiquette

The return address on a wedding invitation is important as it tells guests where gifts and RSVPs should be sent. It also ensures that if an invitation is returned to the sender, you will be able to contact the guest directly and provide them with the correct address.

Where to Place the Return Address

The return address typically goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. If you are using double envelopes (an inner and outer envelope), the return address only needs to go on the outer envelope.

Format of the Return Address

Formally, the return address should be handwritten. However, it is now also acceptable to have the address printed, or to use a mailing label or a return address stamp. When addressing the envelopes, it is best to use a clear, simple, and legible font such as Times New Roman, Georgia, Palatino, Arial, or Helvetica.

Whose Return Address to Use

In most cases, the same address is used for both the invitation envelope and the response envelope. Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding (those who are paying for the event) will collect the gifts and RSVPs, so their address is used.

However, there may be situations where you want gifts mailed to the bride's parents' address (especially if they arrive while you are on your honeymoon) and replies sent to the bride's address if she is in charge of the guest list.

Whose Names to Include

Formally, only the physical address is listed on the invitation envelope, with no names. However, it is also acceptable to include names, and there are various ways to do this. If you want to keep it traditional, the names of the hosts (usually the bride's parents) should be included, using their full names and titles, e.g., "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson".

On the response envelope, the return address should include names, as this is the address the post office will deliver the replies to. If the bride and groom are hosting, it is considered more formal to use their first and last names, e.g., "Ms. Kari Johnson and Mr. Bradley Shaw". A more casual approach would be to use just their first names, e.g., "Kari and Bradley".

Return address options

There are several options for including your return address on your wedding invitation envelopes. Here are some of the most common methods:

• Return Address Labels: This is a simple and affordable option. You can create return address labels and stick them on the envelope. However, it may look inelegant, especially if you have coloured envelopes.
• Pre-Printed Return Address on Envelope: When ordering envelopes online, you can often request to have your return address pre-printed for a small fee. This saves time and provides a clean look. However, it may incur an extra cost and lead time for printing.
• Return Address Stamp: Similar to labels, you can order a custom return address stamp. This option offers a cohesive style with the guest address, especially if you use coloured ink. It may, however, take some time to apply the stamp to each envelope.
• Calligraphy Return Address: The most expensive option is to have a calligrapher write your return address. This ensures a perfect match in writing style and ink colour to the guest address. It saves time for the client but requires the most time for the calligrapher.
• Handwritten Return Address: You can also choose to handwrite your return address. This option allows for flexibility and creativity but may be time-consuming, especially if you have a large number of invitations.

It is worth noting that the return address is typically placed on the back flap of the envelope, and it is acceptable to have it printed, use a mailing label, or a return address stamp.

When to send wedding invitations

Wedding invitations should be sent out six to eight weeks before the wedding date. This gives your guests enough time to respond and for you to get a reliable headcount a week or two before the event. It also allows guests plenty of time to reply, book travel arrangements if they haven't already, and purchase a gift.

If a large percentage of your guest list lives abroad, or if you are planning a destination wedding, it's best to add a few weeks to this timeline. Aim to send your invites around 12 weeks before your wedding date. If you're only planning to invite a few international guests, it's fine to send their formal invitation at the same time as other guests, but make sure to inform them about the wedding day details ahead of time so that they have enough time to prepare their travel arrangements.

If you're sending out Save the Dates, these should be mailed four to six months before the wedding date. This gives your guests enough time to make all the necessary plans to attend. Sending out Save the Dates also means you can send your invitations a little later, as guests will already have the key information.

It's important to request RSVPs no later than one month before the wedding date so that you and your vendors have ample time to make the necessary preparations.

Where to put the return address

The return address on a wedding invitation envelope is important as it tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. It also ensures that any undelivered invitations are returned to the correct address.

The return address typically goes on the back flap of the outer envelope. If you are using double envelopes (an inner and an outer envelope), the return address only needs to go on the outer envelope. The inner envelope is usually left unsealed and does not require a return address.

The return address should be the address of the person or couple hosting the wedding. Traditionally, this would be the bride's parents, but nowadays, it is common for the bride and groom to host the wedding themselves or to host it together with their families.

Format

The return address can be handwritten or printed. Traditionally, it should be handwritten in black ink, but it is now also acceptable to have it printed, use a mailing label, or use a return address stamp.

If you are using a calligrapher to design your envelopes, they may have different tricks to ensure that the return address is not confused with the guest address, such as using different-sized text or a different design.

What to Include

The return address should include the host's address and, optionally, their names. If you choose to include names, there are several options for how to format them:

• First names only (e.g. "Alex and John")
• First and last names (e.g. "Alex Jones and John Smith")
• Last names plus wedding (e.g. "Jones and Smith Wedding")
• No names at all, just the address

If you are using last names, it is considered a "no-no" to combine them as if you were already married (e.g. "Alex and John Smith").

Frequently asked questions