Choosing White Ink For Wedding Invitations: Etiquette And Style

When it comes to addressing wedding invitations, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they arrive at their destination without any issues. While white ink can be a unique and elegant choice for wedding invitations, it is important to note that it may not be the best option for the addresses. Although some sources claim that postal machines can handle almost any colour, including white, the US Post Office states that they do not prefer white ink. This may increase the chances of your invitations getting stuck during processing. To avoid any potential delays, it is recommended to use darker-coloured inks such as charcoal, navy, or black on light-coloured envelopes. Additionally, it is crucial to use standard envelope sizes, avoid chunky glitter, and provide clear and accurate addresses to ensure smooth processing by postal machines.

Choosing the right colour for your envelopes

When it comes to choosing the right colour for your envelopes, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to consider the overall style and theme of your wedding. Do you want your envelopes to be classic and neutral, or are you looking for something more colourful and playful? Another factor to think about is legibility. Opt for envelopes in light colours such as pale pink, blue, green, or cream. Avoid dark colours like red, purple, orange, or gold, as they can be harder for mail scanning cameras to read accurately.

Additionally, it's best to steer clear of shimmery or reflective envelopes, as well as those with chunky glitter. These can cause issues with the postal machines and may result in delays. If you want to add a touch of sparkle, consider using foil stamping or screen printing techniques for your envelope lining or inner envelopes. Also, keep in mind that the ink colour you choose for the addresses should have enough contrast with the envelope colour to ensure readability. Dark-coloured inks like charcoal, navy, or black usually work well.

If you're looking for a more elegant option, white ink printing on dark-coloured envelopes can be a great choice. However, keep in mind that the postal service may not prefer this combination. If you want to be absolutely sure that your invitations will arrive without any issues, it's best to stick to light-coloured envelopes with dark ink for the addresses.

Finally, don't forget to consider the paper stock and printing method. Different types of paper and printing methods can affect the way colours appear. For example, printing on a soft white paper will give ink colours a warmer appearance compared to bright white paper. If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to order samples or seek advice from a stationery designer to ensure you achieve the perfect look for your wedding invitations.

Using the correct ink colour

When addressing wedding invitations, it's important to use the correct ink colour to ensure legibility and avoid any postal delays. While you may be tempted to get creative with ink colours, it's best to stick with dark colours like black, dark blue, or dark purple. Lighter colours, such as red, orange, or gold, may be difficult for postal scanners to read, causing potential delays.

It's also important to avoid using metallic or reflective ink, such as silver or gold, as these can cause issues with the mail scanning cameras. The light illuminating the envelope can cause strange reflections, resulting in incorrect routing of your invitations. Similarly, shimmery or glittery envelopes should be avoided, as they can also be difficult for postal scanners to read.

When addressing wedding invitations, it's best to use a standard ink colour and focus your creativity on the inner contents of the envelope, such as the invitation design, font, or wording. This will help ensure that your invitations reach their intended recipients without any delays.

In addition to ink colour, there are a few other things to keep in mind when addressing wedding invitations. Firstly, use standard practices for envelope formatting, including the placement of the address, stamp, and return address. Secondly, use postal codes or zip codes to help ensure accurate delivery. Thirdly, check with your postal service for any specific guidelines or restrictions before assembling and mailing your invitations.

By following these guidelines and using the correct ink colour, you can help ensure that your wedding invitations are delivered smoothly and efficiently to your guests.

Addressing a married couple with the same last name

When addressing a married couple with the same last name, the traditional format is "Mr. and Mrs. [Partner's First Name] [Last Name]". However, this format erases the wife's first name and identity, assuming she has taken her husband's last name. A more respectful and inclusive format is to list their names separately, for example, "Mr. [Partner's First Name] [Last Name] and Mrs. [Partner's First Name] [Last Name]". This acknowledges the wife's first name and recognises her as an individual.

If you are unsure whether the wife has changed her last name, it is best to ask before addressing the invitation. Assuming she has taken her husband's last name can be disrespectful and cause offence. Another option is to use their first names only, for example, "Mr. [Partner's First Name] and Mrs. [Partner's First Name]". This avoids the issue of last names altogether.

When addressing the envelope, it is important to follow standard practices. Place the address in the expected location, with the stamp in the usual position, and the return address in the top left corner or on the back flap. Use a light-coloured envelope, such as pale pink, blue, green, or cream, and avoid shimmery or reflective materials. Ensure there is sufficient contrast between the envelope and the ink colour to make the address legible. Black, dark blue, or dark purple ink is ideal, while red, purple, orange, or gold can cause issues with deliverability.

The postal code or zip code should be included at the end of the last line of the address or on a separate line by itself. When addressing invitations by hand, take care to keep the numbers and letters of the postal code separate to avoid overlap. Any creative elements, such as shiny wax seals, silver or gold ink, or glitter, should be placed inside the envelope to avoid issues with postal sorting machines.

Addressing a married couple with different last names

When addressing a married couple with different last names, it is important to be mindful of their preferences and avoid assumptions. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Avoid assuming that the wife has changed her last name. It is respectful to ask the couple about their preferred form of address if you are unsure.
• Address the couple with each name on a separate line. For example:

[Wife's name]

[Husband's name]

[Address]

• Use appropriate titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms.) based on their preferences. If unsure, it is better to ask than to assume.
• Avoid using only one person's first name on the same line as the other's full name, as it may appear that one person is an afterthought.
• When in doubt, opt for a more formal style of address rather than something too creative or informal.
• If the couple has children and you want to include them in the invitation, you can address it to " [Couple's names] and Family" or list the children's names below the parents' names.
• Be consistent with name formats across all invitations to avoid any misunderstandings.
• If you are close to the couple, consider asking them directly how they would like to be addressed to ensure you get it right.

Addressing a married couple with hyphenated last names

When addressing wedding invitations, it's important to follow certain protocols to ensure your invitations are delivered correctly and on time. Here are some guidelines for addressing a married couple with hyphenated last names:

Outer Envelope:

When addressing the outer envelope, the general format is to use the titles "Mr." and "Ms." or "Mrs." followed by the couple's names. If the wife has chosen to hyphenate her last name, her maiden name should come first, followed by the married name. For example: "Mr. Michael Jones and Ms. Mary Smith-Jones". It is also acceptable to use "Mr." and "Mrs." if the wife uses "Mrs." as her honorific. However, "Ms." is always correct when you are unsure of her preference. The outer envelope should also include the couple's address.

Inner Envelope:

For the inner envelope, a more informal style can be used. The titles "Mr." and "Ms." or "Mrs." can be dropped, and only the couple's names and last name are written. For example: "Michael and Mary Jones-Smith". This envelope will be inside the outer envelope and will include the invitation card.

Format Variations:

Depending on the couple's preferences, you can vary the format slightly. For example, if the couple prefers to have the wife's name first, you can write "Ms. Mary Smith-Jones and Mr. Michael Jones" on the outer envelope. On the inner envelope, you can write their names as "Mary and Michael".

Postal Guidelines:

When addressing wedding invitations, it's important to follow postal guidelines to ensure smooth delivery. Use a light-coloured envelope, such as pale pink, blue, or cream, and avoid reflective or shimmery surfaces. Black, dark blue, or dark purple ink colours are recommended for the addresses. Red, purple, orange, or gold ink can cause issues with postal scanners. Avoid using creative fonts, especially for abbreviations, postal codes, or zip codes, as this can confuse the sorting machines.

Frequently asked questions