Wedding Invitation Envelope Etiquette: Return Address Placement

Wedding invitations are a special kind of correspondence, and there are several considerations to make when addressing the envelopes. The return address is a key component of any wedding invitation, as it tells guests where gifts and RSVPs should be mailed. While the guest address usually takes centre stage, the return address is still important for ensuring envelopes find their way back to the sender.

Return address stamps

A return address stamp can be a great option if you want a cohesive style with your guest address. You can choose from different fonts and ink colours to match your wedding theme or personality. The stamp is also yours to keep and use for future mailings.

When creating your return address stamp, you can include the host's name and physical address. Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding would be noted as the return address, so that may be a parent or the couple themselves. If the bride's parents are hosting, their names should be included in the return address, followed by the physical address.

• Physical address only: "12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama 36695"
• Host's name and physical address: "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson, 12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama 36695"

For the response envelope, the return address should include names since the post office will deliver this back to you. Here are some examples:

• Bride and groom's names and physical address: "Ms. Kari Johnson and Mr. Bradley Shaw, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695"
• Wedding name and physical address: "The Johnson-Shaw Wedding, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695"
• Casual format: "Kari and Bradley, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695"

Return address labels

When creating your return address labels, you have a few options for whose name(s) and address to include. Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding would be noted as the return address, so this may be the couple themselves or a parent. You could include first names only, first and last names, last names plus the word 'wedding', or no names at all. If you do decide to use last names, one thing to avoid is combining last names, as you aren't married yet.

• Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson, 12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama 36695
• Ms. Kari Johnson, Mr. Bradley Shaw, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695
• The Johnson-Shaw Wedding, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695
• Kari and Bradley, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695

If you're looking to purchase return address labels, there are many options available on Etsy and Amazon. Etsy sellers offer a range of custom designs, including clear and white address labels, gold and silver foil labels, and minimalist and elegant styles. Prices range from $4.19 for a set of 30 labels to $23.08 for 250 personalised labels. Amazon also offers a range of wedding invitation return address labels, with a set of 60 labels priced at $12.60.

Pre-printed return address on envelope

If you are ordering envelopes online, you can usually add an option to have your return address pre-printed for a small fee. This saves time, as you don't need to stick, stamp, or write the address. It also provides a clean look.

However, there are some downsides to pre-printed envelopes. If you run out of envelopes or need more for any reason, you can't just use extra envelopes you have lying around. You would need to find another way to add the return address, as it won't be pre-printed! This option can also come with an extra cost and a longer lead time for printing. If you are working with a calligrapher, remember to order 20% extra envelopes upfront in case of errors.

There are no hard and fast rules on how to address envelopes, and you shouldn't feel forced to follow tradition if it doesn't fit your personality! However, traditionally speaking, whoever is hosting the wedding would be noted as the return address. This may be a parent or the couple themselves.

Return address etiquette

Placement of the Return Address

The placement of the return address on a wedding invitation envelope is a matter of preference and practicality. The front of the envelope, typically the upper left corner, is the traditional and postal service-approved location. This placement increases visibility for postal workers and facilitates efficient processing and delivery. It also leaves the back of the envelope clear for design elements.

On the other hand, placing the return address on the back flap of the envelope is often chosen for aesthetic reasons, especially if you want an uncluttered front with a clean design. This approach, however, may compromise visibility and is not recommended by postal guidelines, potentially leading to delivery delays or returns.

Format and Style

The return address is typically written by hand, although printed addresses, mailing labels, or return address stamps are also acceptable. If opting for a handwritten address, consider using calligraphy to add a touch of elegance. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed, with no names included. However, it is becoming more common to include names, especially on the response envelope, to ensure the postal service delivers it back to the correct person.

When including names, there are various formats to choose from. For a formal affair, the traditional format includes titles and last names, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson." For a more modern approach, you can use first and last names (e.g., "Alex Jones and John Smith") or even just first names ("Alex and John"). If you wish to include last names but want to avoid combining them, you can use last names with "and" or "wedding" (e.g., "Jones and Smith Wedding").

Return Address Options

There are several ways to include your return address on the envelope:

• Return Address Labels: These can be printed or designed on your computer and printed at home. They are affordable and simple but may look inelegant, especially if the labels don't match the colour of the envelope.
• Pre-Printed Return Address on Envelope: When ordering envelopes online, you can often pay a small fee to have your return address pre-printed. This saves time but may incur additional costs and lead times. It also limits your flexibility if you need more envelopes later.
• Return Address Stamp: Similar to labels, you can order a custom return address stamp. This option offers consistency with the guest address if it's designed by the same calligrapher. It may be more costly and time-consuming to apply the stamp to each envelope.
• Calligraphy Return Address: Having a calligrapher write the return address ensures a perfect match in writing style and ink colour. This option is the most expensive due to the time and skill involved.

Timing and Postage

It's essential to plan ahead when addressing and sending out wedding invitations. Allow yourself about a month to organize the envelopes and ensure you have accurate addresses and a neat presentation. If using a calligrapher, they will need the envelopes at least two to three weeks in advance, and compiling the guest list and confirming addresses can also take time.

When it comes to postage, bring a completed invitation to the post office to have it weighed, as many invitations require more than the cost of a first-class stamp. It's also worth asking about hand-canceling, which prevents heavy machines from damaging your invitations and keeps them looking neat.

In conclusion, while there are traditional guidelines for return address etiquette, feel free to adapt them to fit your personality and the style of your wedding. The most important aspect is celebrating with your loved ones, so focus on creating invitations that reflect the joy of the occasion.

Outer and inner envelopes

Wedding invitations with inner and outer envelopes are a great way to add a traditional and formal touch to your special day. There are several benefits to using this style of invitation. Firstly, they provide an extra layer of protection for your invites, ensuring they arrive without rips or smudges. Secondly, they offer clarity on who is invited, with outer envelopes addressed to the heads of households and inner envelopes listing the specific family members included. This is especially useful for weddings with age restrictions or plus ones. Finally, double envelopes elevate the guest experience, signalling that your wedding will be an elegant affair.

When using inner and outer envelopes, the return address only goes on the back flap of the outer envelope. This is usually handwritten, but printing, mailing labels, or a return address stamp are also acceptable. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed, but you can include names if you wish. For the inner envelope, you can list the guests' names on the front.

Frequently asked questions