Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding invitations are a special kind of mail. They are often formal and traditional, and there are many rules of etiquette to follow. One of these is the placement of the return address. While it is usually placed in the top left corner of an envelope, wedding invitations are different. The return address on a wedding invitation is usually placed on the back flap of the envelope. This is considered the proper location for a return address. However, this can cause issues with postal services, which use machines to sort mail. If the envelope is inserted the wrong way, the machine may mistake the return address for the recipient's address and send the invitation back to the sender.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Return address location | Back flap of the envelope |
| Return address format | Names on the first line, full street address on the second line, city, state, and zip code on the third line |
| Return address names | Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding, e.g. the parents of the bride |
| Abbreviations | Generally, it is recommended to avoid abbreviations, but it is acceptable to abbreviate titles (Dr., Mrs., etc.) and state names ("CA" instead of "California") |
| Font | Align with the wedding's aesthetic, avoid fancy or overly decorative fonts |
What You'll Learn
Return address location
When it comes to addressing wedding invitations, there are a few things to consider to ensure your invites reach their intended recipients without a hitch. Here are some instructive guidelines on return address placement:
- The return address is typically placed on the back flap of the envelope. This location makes it easily visible and accessible for the recipient and postal service while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look on the front.
- Placing the return address on the back flap is considered the preferred option for wedding invitations. This location allows for a neat presentation of the recipient's address on the front and ensures all necessary information is included.
- It is recommended to avoid placing the return address in the upper left corner, as this may confuse postal sorting machines, resulting in your invitations being returned to you.
- If your invitation includes an inner envelope, you can also write the return address on the back of this inner envelope. Traditionally, the inner envelope is not sealed and is used as if the invitation is being hand-delivered.
- For RSVP envelopes, it is essential to include a return address to ensure responses are mailed back to the correct location.
- When addressing envelopes by hand, consider using calligraphy or clear and legible handwriting. Alternatively, printed labels or custom return address stamps can be used for a more consistent and professional appearance.
- To ensure deliverability, double-check all addresses for accuracy before mailing your invitations.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your wedding invitations reach their intended recipients without any issues.
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Return address format
The return address is an essential part of your wedding invitation suite. It allows guests to RSVP to your celebration and protects your invite from any mailing mishaps.
Return Address Location
The preferred location for a return address is on the back flap of the envelope. This makes it easily visible and accessible for the recipient and postal service, and it maintains a clean and uncluttered look on the front of the envelope. If your invitation package includes an inner envelope, you can also write the return address on the back of this.
- Select a font that aligns with your wedding's aesthetic. It is recommended to use handwritten calligraphy or a printer that mimics calligraphy fonts. If this is not possible, clear and legible handwriting or printed labels can be used.
- Choose an address that works best for you. Traditionally, the return address includes the names of the hosts or individuals sending the invitations. For example, if the parents of the bride are hosting, their names and address should be included. If the couple is hosting their own wedding, their names can be used.
- Properly list out all the details. The return address should be formatted with the names on the first line, followed by the full street address on the second line, and the city, state, and zip code on the third line. For example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
Winter Park, Florida 10001
- When writing out the return address, consider the spacing of each line. Each line should be aligned with the left margin to create a clean and organised look.
- Avoid using abbreviations. Spell out everyone's full name, the street name, the city, and the state. Ensure that the return address on the outer envelope matches the address printed on the RSVP envelope if separate RSVP envelopes are included.
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Return address labels
When placing your return address labels, it is preferred to put them on the back flap of the envelope. This maintains a clean and uncluttered look on the front of the envelope, where the recipient's address is usually written. If your invitation includes an inner envelope, you can also write the return address on the back of this.
Traditionally, the return address on wedding invitations includes the names of the hosts or the individuals sending the invitations. For example, if the parents of the bride are hosting, their names and address should be included. If the couple is hosting their own wedding, their names can be used instead.
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Pre-printed return address
If you are ordering envelopes online, you can often have your return address pre-printed for a small fee. This option saves time, as no one needs to stick, stamp, or write the address. It also provides a clean look.
However, there are a few 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 may have lying around. You would need to find another option for the return address since it won't be pre-printed. Additionally, there may be an extra cost and longer lead time for printing, and the style may be inconsistent with the guest address.
If you are concerned about the potential downsides of pre-printed envelopes, there are other options for getting your return address onto the envelope. For example, you could use return address labels or a custom return address stamp.
No matter which option you choose, the return address is typically placed on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. Formally, only the physical address is listed, with no names. However, you can choose to include names if you wish.
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Return address stamps
When it comes to wedding invitations, there are many ways to approach the return address. While there is the traditional way of doing things, you can also choose to follow your own style.
One option is to use a return address stamp. This can be a great way to save time and add a unique touch to your invitations. You can find a variety of return address stamps online, such as on Etsy, or you can even design your own. Stamps can be self-inking or wood-mounted rubber and can feature a range of designs, from minimalist to modern.
If you decide to use a return address stamp, there are a few things to keep in mind. One consideration is the placement of the stamp. While the return address is typically placed in the top left corner of an envelope for everyday mail, it is preferred to put it on the back flap for wedding invitations. This adds a touch of elegance and ensures that your invitations stand out. However, some worry that placing the return address on the back flap will cause issues with delivery. While this can occasionally happen, there are tricks to ensure your invitations make it to their recipients, such as using different-sized text or designs.
Another thing to consider is the wording of the return address. Traditionally, the return address would note whoever is hosting the wedding, which could be the couple or their parents. Some other options include using first names only, first and last names, last names plus the word "wedding", or even no names at all and just the address. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can choose the option that best reflects your personality and style.
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Frequently asked questions
The preferred location for a return address is on the back flap of the envelope. This makes it easily visible and accessible for the recipient and postal service, and maintains a clean and uncluttered look on the front of the envelope.
The return address should include the names of the hosts or the individuals sending the invitations, followed by the full street address, and the city, state, and zip code. For example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
Winter Park, Florida 10001
While there are no hard and fast rules, traditionally, whoever is hosting the wedding would be noted as the return address. This could be a parent or the couple themselves. It is also important to use proper spacing and alignment for a clean and organised look, and to avoid using any abbreviations.
