Addressing Wedding Invites: Return Address On Back, How?

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of the big day, offering guests a first glimpse of the style and theme, as well as key information. The return address is an important, but sometimes overlooked, element. It tells guests where to send gifts and responses, and ensures that any undelivered invitations make their way back to the couple or host. The return address usually goes on the back flap of the envelope and should be the address of the person or people receiving responses and gifts. While traditionally this is handwritten in black ink, it is now acceptable to print or stamp this information.

Return address placement: front or back of the envelope

When addressing a wedding invitation, it is important to consider the placement of the return address on the envelope. The return address typically goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelope. This is the case whether you are using single or double envelopes for your invitations. For double envelopes, the return address only needs to be included on the outer envelope.

The return address is usually the address of the person or persons hosting the event. For example, if the bride's parents are hosting, their address should be used. Traditionally, names are not included on a formal return address, only the physical address. However, it is acceptable to include names, especially on the response envelope, as this will be delivered back to the couple or hosts.

When addressing an envelope for a bill or a card to a friend, the return address is typically placed in the top left corner. However, for wedding invitations, it is preferred to put the return address on the back flap of the envelope. This is because the return address tells guests where gifts and responses should be sent. If someone is unable to attend or wishes to send a gift in advance, they will use the address on the back flap of the invitation.

There are different options for including the return address on the envelope. One option is to use return address labels that can be printed or designed and printed at home. Another option is to have the return address pre-printed on the envelope when ordering envelopes online. A custom return address stamp can also be ordered, or the return address can be handwritten or calligraphed.

Return address format: handwriting, printing, mailing labels, or stamps

When it comes to addressing wedding invitations, there are a few options for formatting the return address. 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 inner and outer envelopes for your invitations, the return address only needs to be on the outer envelope.

Handwriting

Traditionally, return addresses on wedding invitations are handwritten in black ink. This can be a time-consuming task, so you may want to enlist the help of friends or family with nice handwriting. While it is not necessary to write out every word in full (e.g. "California" can be abbreviated as "CA"), traditional etiquette dictates that you avoid abbreviations. If you want to stick to tradition, only include the address and no names on the back flap of the invitation envelope. However, you can include names on the response envelope since it will be delivered by the post office.

Printing

If handwriting isn't your style, it is perfectly acceptable to print the return address. You can either print the address directly on the envelope or use a mailing label. Printing is a cost-effective option, especially if you're running a small quantity.

Mailing Labels

Mailing labels are a simple and affordable option for return addresses. You can design and print them yourself at home, or use a service like VistaPrint or Shutterfly. Keep in mind that white labels may look inconsistent with a coloured envelope.

Stamps

Another option is to order a custom return address stamp. This can be a time-saver and gives a cohesive look to your envelopes. You can choose from a variety of ink colours to match the style of your invitations.

Ultimately, the choice of format is up to you and can range from traditional to modern to casual.

Return address names: whose names to include

The return address on a wedding invitation envelope is important as it tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. The return address goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelope. Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding will collect gifts and RSVPs, so their names and address are included in the return address. This is usually the bride's parents and it is considered proper etiquette to list their names and address in the following format:

> Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson

> 12 Park Lane

> Mobile, Alabama 36695

However, it is becoming more common for the bride and groom to pay for their wedding or to host it together with their families. In this case, it is considered more formal to list their names separately:

> Ms. Kari Johnson

> Mr. Bradley Shaw

> 23848 Dunmore Loop

> Mobile, Alabama 36695

Or

> Ms. Kari Johnson

> Mr. Bradley Shaw

> Mobile, Alabama 36695

If the couple prefers a more casual approach, they can use their first names only:

> Kari and Bradley

> 23848 Dunmore Loop

> Mobile, Alabama 36695

Alternatively, they can use their first and last names:

> Kari Johnson and Bradley Shaw

> 23848 Dunmore Loop

> Mobile, Alabama 36695

It is also acceptable to use just the address with no names, or to use first names and last names without the addressee's full name:

> Alex and John

> 123 Main Street

> Anytown, CA 90210

If the couple is not yet married, it is considered a "no-no" to combine last names (e.g. Alex and John Smith).

Return address visibility: ensuring the address is seen by postal workers

The return address is an important component of your wedding invitation envelopes. It ensures that your invitations can find their way back to you if they get lost in the mail, so it's crucial that it's visible to postal workers.

According to United States Postal Service guidelines, the optimal placement for the return address is on the upper left corner of the front of the envelope. The text should be positioned 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom. Following these precise postal regulations minimizes the risk of mail errors and ensures quick automated sorting and delivery to your recipients. Placing the return address on the front of the envelope also increases visibility for postal workers and improves processing success.

However, some couples prefer to put the return address on the back flap of the envelope to achieve a clean, uncluttered look on the front. If you choose to do this, there are a few tricks to ensure that postal workers don't miss it. Consider using a different size text or design for the return address. You can also use a custom return address stamp or return address labels to make it stand out.

It's worth noting that placing the return address on the back of the envelope is not recommended by USPS guidelines and may increase the risk of compromised visibility and delivery issues. Weigh the importance of design against the practicality of mail delivery when making your decision.

To further ensure the visibility of your return address, use a clear, readable serif font like Times New Roman, Georgia, Palatino, Arial, or Helvetica. Avoid overly elaborate scripts or thin, smudging fonts.

Return address envelope: choosing the right envelope

The return address on a wedding invitation is crucial. It tells guests where to send their gifts and responses. It also ensures that lost mail can find its way back to you for resending. Here are some tips for choosing the right envelope for your return address:

Placement of the Return Address

The return address is typically placed on the back flap of the outer envelope. This is the traditional and preferred placement, as it leaves the front of the envelope uncluttered and easier to read. It also allows for a clean, unbroken design on the front. However, some couples may choose to place the return address in the upper left corner of the front of the envelope, as recommended by the United States Postal Service, to increase visibility and reduce the risk of mail errors.

Format of the Return Address

The return address should include the physical address of the person(s) hosting the event, such as the bride's parents. Formally, only the address is listed, with no names. However, it is becoming more common to include names, especially on the response envelope. If including names, the format can vary, such as using first names only, first and last names, or last names with the wedding ("Jones and Smith Wedding").

Options for Including the Return Address

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

• Return address labels: These can be printed or designed at home and then stuck on the envelope. They are affordable and simple but may look inelegant, especially if the labels are white and the envelope is coloured.
• Pre-printed return address on the envelope: When ordering envelopes online, you can often have the return address pre-printed for a small fee. This saves time but may incur extra costs and lead time for printing. It also limits flexibility if you need more envelopes.
• Return address stamp: You can order a custom stamp with your return address and stamp it on the envelope. This option provides a cohesive style with the guest address if using calligraphy and offers a variety of ink colours. However, it may be more costly and time-consuming than other options.
• Calligraphy return address: Hiring a calligrapher to write the return address ensures a completely cohesive style with the guest address and is the most elegant option. However, it is also the most expensive choice.

Ultimately, the choice of envelope and return address format depends on your personal preferences, budget, and desired level of elegance and customisation.

Frequently asked questions