Junior Rasmussen
Wedding invitation envelopes set the tone for the entire celebration. They are the first glimpse into the wedding for your guests, and there are many ways to elevate them from ordinary envelopes to something special. From the colour scheme to the use of titles, the style of envelope, and whether to handwrite or print, there are many considerations to keep in mind. This topic will explore the art of addressing envelopes, the latest trends, and how to assemble your wedding invitations with style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of envelopes | Single or double |
| Colour | Matching the wedding colour scheme, black and white, or contrasting colours for a bold statement, pale colours like pink, lilac, or red for a romantic touch |
| Addressing style | Handwritten or printed |
| Wording | Traditional titles like "Mr." and "Mrs." or gender-neutral options like "Mx." or "M." |
| Assembly | Inner envelope with titles and last names for formal weddings, inner envelope with first names for casual weddings |
| Enclosures | Details card, accommodations card, itinerary card, QR code, RSVP card, reply envelope |
| Order of enclosures | Largest to smallest, with the invitation card on the bottom, print side up |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a style: single or double envelopes
Wedding invitations can be sent in single or double envelopes. Single envelopes are a more budget-friendly option, as only one envelope is mailed, but they do not offer as much protection for your invitations. They are also a more casual and simple option. Guest names and addresses are printed directly on the envelope, and this option may omit listing out family members, instead including a generic term such as "guest" or "family".
Double envelopes, on the other hand, are a more formal and traditional option. They offer an added layer of protection and allow you to include additional information on the inner envelope, such as the names of each invited guest. This can be extremely helpful in clarifying who is invited to your wedding. The outer envelope is addressed, sealed, and stamped, and contains the slightly smaller inner envelope that houses the invitation. The inner envelope is ungummed because it is protected by the outer envelope.
The use of double envelopes dates back to a time when mail services were not as modern as they are today, and an extra layer of protection was necessary. Even today, envelopes can get crumpled, torn, or bent, so double envelopes can be useful.
Ultimately, the decision to use one or two envelopes depends on personal preference, budget, and the overall style and formality of the wedding. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly and casual option, single envelopes may be the best choice. However, if you prefer a more formal and traditional look, double envelopes would be a better option.
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Handwritten or printed
There are several options available when it comes to addressing wedding invitation envelopes, and it is ultimately up to you whether you choose to handwrite or print them. Some people prefer handwritten envelopes as they are more personal, traditional, and elegant. However, printing can be a more efficient and convenient option, especially for larger guest lists.
If you decide to handwrite your envelopes, you can do it yourself or hire a calligrapher. Handwriting your envelopes can add a nice personal touch, but it can also be time-consuming, and you may not like your handwriting. If you do decide to handwrite your envelopes, make sure your handwriting is neat and legible. You can also use a calligraphy pen or stamp to improve the appearance of your handwriting.
On the other hand, printing your envelopes can save time and effort. You can print your envelopes at home using a printer and address template, or you can use a service like Minted, Staples, FedEx, or a local print shop. If you want to save even more time, you can use address labels instead of printing directly on the envelopes. However, some people feel that labels look less elegant and more like spam or mass mailing.
There are also hybrid options, such as using a combination of printing and handwriting or using a printing service that offers fonts that look handwritten. Ultimately, the choice between handwritten and printed envelopes depends on your personal preference, the overall aesthetic you want to achieve, and how much time and effort you want to spend on this detail of your wedding invitations.
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Etiquette and titles
Wedding invitation envelopes set the tone for the entire celebration. Whether you opt for a traditional or modern approach, there are some key considerations to keep in mind regarding titles and etiquette.
Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of envelopes used for wedding invitations. Wedding invitations can include an inner and outer envelope system. The inner envelope is optional and is usually only addressed with the names of the invitees, while the outer envelope is stamped and addressed more formally. The outer envelope is where you would typically include courtesy titles, such as Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., Mx., or Dr. The inner envelope is more informal, and you can choose to include only the names or initials of the invitees.
When addressing envelopes to couples, there are a few guidelines to follow. If the couple is married and shares a last name, traditional titles like Mr. and Mrs. can be used, followed by the shared last name. For unmarried couples or couples who do not share a last name, each person's name should be on a separate line, with the person you are closest with listed first or alphabetical order if you are equally close to both. If one or both individuals have professional titles, such as doctors, lawyers, or judges, it is proper etiquette to address them by those titles on the outer envelope.
In modern times, it is important to be mindful of varying honorifics and preferences. Some guests may prefer gender-neutral titles like "Mx." or "M.," while others may have multiple honorifics due to professional titles or life changes (e.g., widowhood or divorce). Always ask your guests about their preferred titles, especially for formal occasions like wedding invitations. You can also choose to forgo titles altogether and use only the names of your guests, especially if you are opting for a more casual celebration.
Finally, when addressing envelopes to families, there are a couple of options. If you are inviting the entire family, you can address the envelope to the whole family or include "& children" following the parents' names. If you only want specific family members to attend, list the names of the invited children (in order of birth) on separate lines after the parents' names.
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Colour schemes
Colour is an important aspect of your wedding invitations and envelopes. It is the first thing your guests will notice when they receive the invitation, and it will set the tone for the rest of your wedding. The colour scheme you choose will likely be present in everything from the invitations to the thank-you cards, flower arrangements, and decorations.
When choosing a colour for your envelopes, consider your wedding's overall colour scheme and style. This will help create a cohesive and elegant look. For instance, if you're planning a minimalist wedding, a navy blue colour scheme for your invitations and envelopes can be a great choice, giving off a modern and elegant vibe. Similarly, an Art Deco colour scheme with gold as the highlight, combined with black, blue, or white, will add elegance and glamour to your wedding invitations.
If you want to make a bold statement, consider contrasting colours like black and white. You can also experiment with pastel colours, which are soothing to the eyes and easier to replicate. Pastel pink, in particular, is a popular choice as it is easy to create a consistent colour scheme across various wedding items.
When opting for coloured envelopes, it is important to ensure there is enough contrast between the envelope colour and the text or address label colour. This will prevent any issues with mail delivery, as machines may struggle to read addresses without sufficient contrast.
To add a touch of sparkle to your invitations, consider shimmer envelopes in a variety of colours, such as metallic gold or silver. You can also incorporate decorative elements like wax seals, envelope liners, belly bands, and vellum wrap to enhance the design and make a lasting impression.
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Assembly and order
Wedding invitations can be assembled in a variety of ways, depending on the style and formality you wish to convey. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you with the assembly and order of your wedding invitation envelopes:
- Create a workspace and gather materials: Clear a designated table and lay out all the necessary pieces, including invitations, envelopes, enclosure cards, and adornments. This ensures an efficient and organised assembly process.
- Determine your envelope style: Wedding invitations can have single or double envelopes. Single envelopes consist of one invitation envelope and one response card envelope. Double envelopes, a more formal and traditional option, include an inner and outer envelope. The outer envelope is for mailing and lists the household name and address, while the inner envelope holds the invitation suite and lists the names of each guest.
- Address the envelopes: Traditionally, wedding invitation envelopes are handwritten, as it offers a sense of personalisation. However, printed addressed envelopes are a convenient and efficient option, especially for larger guest lists. When addressing, consider the level of formality, honorifics, and preferences of your guests. List the names in order of preference or alphabetically if you are equally close to the invitees.
- Assemble the invitation suite: Place the invitation card at the bottom, print side up, as it is usually the largest card. If you have a folded invitation, place enclosures within the folds. For unfolded invitations, place additional enclosures, such as details, accommodations, or itinerary cards, on top of the invitation card, facing up, and arranged from largest to smallest.
- Include RSVP details: If you are using traditional mailed-back RSVP cards, place the RSVP envelope on top of the enclosure cards, printed side down, with the envelope flap on the left. Ensure the mailing address is pre-printed, and the envelope is stamped. Place the reply card under the envelope flap, face up.
- Add final touches: If you wish to include tissue paper, vellum, or envelope liners, place them on top of the invitation card or within the inner envelope. These add an elegant touch and protect your invitation suite during transit.
- Seal and send: Once you have assembled the invitation suite, carefully seal the envelopes and ensure they are ready for mailing. Always double-check the accuracy of addresses and postage before sending out your invitations.
Remember to take your time during the assembly process and create a sample invitation for quality control. This will help ensure consistency and elegance in your wedding invitation envelopes.
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Frequently asked questions
Wedding invitation envelopes set the tone for your entire celebration. Choose something that matches your wedding and style as a whole. You can either go for a single envelope or a double envelope. The single envelope style is commonly used and consists of one invitation envelope and one response card envelope. The double envelope style is more formal and traditional and includes an inner and outer envelope for mailing each invitation suite.
There is a blend of traditional etiquette and modern considerations when addressing your wedding invitation envelopes. Traditionally, it is proper to handwrite wedding envelopes as it offers a sense of personalisation. When addressing envelopes to couples, you need to follow specific rules to pluralize last names. For most last names, simply add an "s" at the end. For last names ending in "s", "x", "z", "ch", or "sh", add "es" to form the plural. Do not add an apostrophe! When addressing envelopes to families, list the person you are closest with first, or arrange the names alphabetically if you are equally close with both invitees.
The wedding invitation is usually the largest card in the pack and should be placed at the bottom with the print side facing up. If your wedding invitation is folded, place your enclosures inside the invite, not on top of it. If you have additional enclosures, such as a details card, an accommodations card, or an itinerary card, put them on top of the reception card according to size order, from largest to smallest. Finally, seal your envelope with a gorgeous wax stamp!
