Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding invitations traditionally include an inner envelope, which bears the names of the specific people invited and contains the invitation itself, RSVP card, and any other enclosures. However, it is becoming more common to send wedding invitations without an inner envelope. If you choose to do so, you can indicate who is invited by writing their names on the outer envelope or including an insert with the invitation. For single invitees, you can write and guest on the outer envelope or include an insert with their name and and guest. For families, you can list the names of each family member on the outer envelope or simply write and family.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Protect the invitation ensemble and keep things neatly organised |
| Act as informal addressing of invited guests and their family members | |
| Make clear to single guests that they may bring a guest | |
| What to do if the invitation doesn't come with an inner envelope | Include the names on the outer envelope |
| Include an insert with the invitation (use sturdy, high-quality paper or translucent Vellum) | |
| Wrap the invitation with a paper belly band, including the names of those invited | |
| Fill in the "M" line on your response card with the name of the invited guest, adding "and family" or "and guest" | |
| Include a line on your response card reading "Number of guests attending" | |
| If your invitation choice is a Pocket, use the actual pocket as the inner envelope |
What You'll Learn
Outer envelope format
The outer envelope is the envelope that is stamped and addressed, while the inner envelope contains the names of the invitees and houses the invitation itself. When sending out wedding invitations without an inner envelope, it is important to focus on properly addressing the outer envelope.
The outer envelope should be addressed conventionally, using titles, first, middle, and last names. No abbreviations or middle initials should be used when addressing formal invitations. While titles such as "Mr.", "Mrs.", "Ms.", and "Dr." are abbreviated, all other words such as "Street" or "Boulevard" are spelled out. State names can be written in full or use the two-letter postal code abbreviation. Generally, an invitation to parents and children is addressed to the parents. For example:
> Mr. and Mrs. James Arthur Darling
If you are inviting a family with young children (under 18), the outer envelope is reserved for the name(s) of the parent(s) or guardian(s). Each child's name should be listed on the inner envelope. For girls under 18, you can use "Miss" if desired. Boys do not need a title until they are 16, at which point they can be addressed as "Mr.". If you are not including each child's name, you are implying that children are not invited. Here is an example:
> On the outer envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham
> On the inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany and Mx. Kelly
If you are inviting a married couple, put their names on the same line. You are free to forgo titles and list their names separately. If the couple has different last names, list the person you are closest with first, or go in alphabetical order if you are equally close to both guests. Here is an example:
> On the outer envelope: Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Rivera
> On the inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Rivera
If you are inviting an unmarried couple, both names should still be included on the envelopes, but each name gets its own line. Again, list the person you are closest with first or go by alphabetical order if you have no preference. Here is an example:
> On the outer envelope: Mr. Aaron Triguiero
> Mr. Gabriel Reyes
> On the inner envelope: Mr. Triguiero
> Mr. Reyes
If you are inviting a single person, always use the person's preferred title. If you are unsure, it is best to forgo a title altogether. For invitations addressed with a plus-one, it is best to mention both people by name if you have that information. If you do not know the name of the plus-one, simply include "and Guest" on the inner envelope. Here is an example:
> On the outer envelope: Ms. Ali Johnson
> On the inner envelope: Ms. Johnson
When addressing wedding invitations, it is important to use the appropriate social titles and write out your guests' names and addresses in full. Avoid nicknames or initials. Spell out all words in the address, including "Street", "Post Office Box", and "Apartment". This also applies to city and state names. House numbers smaller than 20 should be spelled out.
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Inner envelope purpose
The inner envelope is smaller than the outer envelope and has traditionally been marked only by the titles and last name(s) of the guest(s). The inner envelope serves the purpose of protecting the invitation and keeping things neatly organised. It also acts as an informal way of addressing invited guests and members of their family, and to make clear to single guests that they may bring a guest.
The inner envelope is more personalised and is usually addressed in a more informal way. It includes the names of every person invited to the wedding (for example, the kids' names or additional family members), while the outer envelope is usually addressed only to the heads of the household. The inner envelope can also be used to specify if guests are allowed to bring a plus-one.
The use of two envelopes can also be beneficial for clarity. For example, if the outer envelope is addressed to "Mr. and Mrs. David Wilson / The Wilson Family", the inner envelope can be more specific, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Wilson / David and Sarah". If children are also invited, their names would be included on the second line of the inner envelope.
The inner envelope is also an opportunity to get creative with names. For example, "William Holcomb" could become "Grandpa" or "Papa B".
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Single friends/family
When addressing wedding invitations to single friends or family members, it's important to use their preferred title and full name. If you are unsure, it is better to forgo the title altogether. Here are some examples:
Example One: Without a Plus-One
On the outer envelope: Ms. Ali Johnson
On the inner envelope: Ms. Johnson
Example Two: With a Plus-One
On the outer envelope: Mx. Sam Li
On the inner envelope: Sam Li and Guest
If you are not using an inner envelope, there are several alternatives to indicate that your single friends or family members can bring a guest:
- Include an insert with the invitation. Use high-quality paper, such as translucent Vellum, and list the names of your invited guests and "and guest" for those who are single.
- Wrap the invitation with a paper belly band, including the names of those invited and "and guest".
- Fill in the "M" line on your response card with the name of the invited guest, adding "and guest".
- Include a line on your response card, such as "Number of guests attending ___".
- If using a pocket-style invitation, use the pocket as the inner envelope by writing the informal address on the side of the pocket.
Remember, it is best to avoid using nicknames or abbreviations when addressing wedding invitations. Always double-check the spelling of your guests' names and their preferences before addressing the envelopes.
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Insert with invitation
If you're not using an inner envelope, it's important to make your intentions clear about who is invited. One way to do this is to include an insert with the invitation. This insert card should be made of sturdy, high-quality paper or translucent vellum. It should be slightly smaller than your invitation and list the names of the invited guests. For families, you can write "and family", and for single guests, you can write "and guest" if you don't know the name of their plus-one. If you do know the name of their partner, it is more personal to include their name instead of writing "and guest".
- Mr and Mrs David Jones and family
- Ms Carol Smith and Kevin Riley
- Mr Ronald Cole and Guest
Another option is to include a line on your response card, such as "Number of guests attending ____". This will make it clear that additional guests or family members are invited.
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Response card
Number of Guests Attending
Include a line on the response card for guests to indicate the number of people attending. For example, "Number of guests attending: ___". This is especially useful if you have allowed guests to bring a plus-one or if children are invited. This ensures that you receive an accurate headcount for planning purposes.
Meal Options
If you are offering meal options for your wedding, be sure to include this information on the response card. For example, "Please indicate your meal choices" or "Please select your meal preference: ___". This allows guests to choose their preferred option and helps with catering arrangements.
Names of Invitees
On the response card, you can include the names of the invited guests, especially if they are allowed to bring a plus-one. For example, "Mr. Ronald Cole and Guest" or "Ms. Carol Smith and Kevin Riley". This makes it clear who is invited and avoids any confusion.
Personalization
Consider personalizing your response cards to include the names of those invited. For example, "We hope you can join us, the Smith family!" or "We can't wait to celebrate with you, John (and bring a guest)!" This adds a thoughtful touch and makes guests feel special.
Formatting and Design
When designing your response cards, ensure they complement the overall aesthetic of your wedding invitations. Consider using similar fonts, colours, and themes to create a cohesive look. Remember to include clear instructions and leave enough space for guests to provide the required information.
Mailing and Assembly
Provide a reply envelope with your response card to make it convenient for guests to respond. If you prefer to receive responses electronically, include your email address or a link to an online RSVP form. Remember to proofread and double-check all the information on the response card before mailing your invitations.
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Frequently asked questions
You can write "and Guest" or "and guest" on the outer envelope, or include an insert with the invitation on a sturdy, high-quality paper or translucent Vellum.
You can address the outer envelope to "The [Last name] Family" or list the names of the specific family members you are inviting. If you are inviting children under 18, you can use "Miss" for girls and "Mr." for boys aged 16 and above.
Using just an outer envelope can reduce expenses and paper usage. It is also more common nowadays and can be useful for clarifying who else is invited, such as plus-ones or children.
