Franklin Dean
Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your personality and style, but they also need to be functional. One important feature is the return address, which tells guests where to send their RSVPs and gifts. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about labelling return addresses on wedding invites, from placement and formatting to different options for getting the perfect look. We'll also discuss the role of the return address in the invitation process and how to choose the right address for your needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Return address location | Back flap of the envelope or the front side of the response envelope |
| Format | 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 |
| Names | Traditionally, only the host's name is included. If the bride's parents are hosting, use their names. If the couple is hosting, their names can be used. |
| Style | Handwritten, printed, mailing labels, or a return address stamp |
What You'll Learn
Return address labels
Placement and Format:
The preferred location for a return address label is on the back flap of the outer envelope. This makes it easily visible for the recipient and maintains a clean look on the front of the envelope. The return address should include the names of the hosts or individuals sending the invitations, followed by the full street address, and the city, state, and zip code on separate lines. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed, with no names. However, it is acceptable to include names, especially if you want to include the bride and groom's names.
Design and Printing:
When designing your return address labels, choose a font that aligns with your wedding's aesthetic and the overall formality of the invitation. Avoid fancy or overly decorative fonts, and consider using handwritten calligraphy or a printer that mimics calligraphy fonts. If you're creating your own labels, you can print them at home on label paper or use online services like VistaPrint and Shutterfly. Keep in mind that white labels may look inconsistent on coloured envelopes.
Other Options:
If you want to explore alternatives to return address labels, you can consider pre-printed return addresses directly on the envelope or using a custom return address stamp. Another option is to hire a calligrapher to write the return addresses, adding a personal and elegant touch to your invitations.
Timing and Mailing:
It's recommended to send your wedding invitations out about six to eight weeks before the wedding. This allows adequate time for guests to respond and for you to get a reliable headcount. Remember to include separate RSVP envelopes with your invitations, with the address already written or printed on the front.
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Pre-printed return address on envelope
When it comes to wedding invites, the return address is a key component. It tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. Traditionally, the return address is handwritten, but it is now acceptable for it to be printed, or for a mailing label or stamp to be used.
If you're ordering envelopes online, you can often add your return address for a small fee. This saves time and creates a clean look. However, if you run out of envelopes, you'll need to find another way to add the return address to your new envelopes. This option also comes with an extra cost and a longer lead time for printing.
When using pre-printed envelopes, you can choose from a variety of ink colours, such as white, black, or full colour printing. You can also select your preferred font. This option ensures a consistent style for your guest and return addresses, especially if you're working with a calligrapher. Remember to order extra envelopes in case of errors.
The return address should be placed on the back flap of the outer envelope. This is usually the address of the person or couple hosting the wedding, such as the bride's parents. Traditionally, names are not included on a formal return address, but you can include them if you wish. If you're using inner and outer envelopes, only the outer envelope needs the return address.
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Return address stamps
Placement of Return Address Stamps:
The traditional placement of the return address on a wedding invitation envelope is on the back flap. This follows the etiquette guidelines for formal invitations. However, some couples may prefer to place the return address on the upper left corner of the front of the envelope, as recommended by the United States Postal Service (USPS). This increases visibility for postal workers and reduces the risk of mail errors.
Format of Return Address Stamps:
When creating your return address stamp, you have the option to include names or just the physical address. Traditionally, only the address is listed, and formally, no names are included on the outer envelope. However, it has become acceptable to include names, especially if you want to add a personal touch. If you decide to add names, you can use first names only (e.g., "Alex and John"), first and last names (e.g., "Alex Jones and John Smith"), or last names plus the word "wedding" (e.g., "Jones and Smith Wedding"). If you are using last names, avoid combining them (e.g., "Alex and John Smith") as the couple is not married yet.
Design and Style of Return Address Stamps:
Where to Order Return Address Stamps:
Several online retailers offer custom return address stamps for wedding invitations. These include Simply Stamps, Ann's Bridal Bargains, and AC Letters Calligraphy. You can select your preferred style, add your custom information, and even choose an ink colour. These stamps can also be used after your wedding on letters, invitations, and gifts.
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Calligraphy return address
When it comes to wedding invites, the guest address usually takes centre stage. However, the return address is equally important and should be given careful consideration.
Placement
The return address is typically placed on the back flap of the envelope. This is different from when you are sending a bill or a card to a friend, where the return address is placed on the top left corner of the envelope.
Etiquette
There are no strict rules when it comes to addressing envelopes. While there are traditions, you don't have to follow them if they don't suit your personality or style. Traditionally, the return address would be that of whoever is hosting the wedding, such as a parent or the couple themselves. Some options for how to format the names are: first names only (Alex and John), first and last names (Alex Jones and John Smith), last names plus wedding (Jones and Smith Wedding), or no names with just the address. The one thing to avoid is combining last names (Alex and John Smith) as you aren't married yet.
Options for Return Address
There are several options for getting your return address onto the envelope, each with its own pros and cons.
Return Address Labels
This is a simple and affordable option where you can print labels at places like VistaPrint and Shutterfly, or design them yourself and print them at home. However, the labels may look inelegant, especially if they are white labels on a coloured envelope, and they may not match the style of the guest address.
Pre-Printed Return Address on Envelope
If you are ordering envelopes online, you can often add your return address for a small fee. This saves time as there is no need to stick, stamp, or write the address, and it provides a clean look. However, if you run out of envelopes, you will need to find another option for the return address.
Return Address Stamp
You can order a custom stamp with your return address, which can be used over and over again. This option provides a cohesive look with the guest address, especially if you use coloured ink. However, it can be time-consuming to apply the stamp, and there may be a slightly higher cost.
The most luxurious option is to have a calligrapher write your return address. This ensures a 100% match in writing style and ink colour, but it is also the most expensive option as it takes the most time for the calligrapher.
There are many considerations when it comes to return addresses for wedding invites, but working with a calligrapher can help make the process simple and ensure your envelopes look elegant and sophisticated.
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Return address placement
The return address on a wedding invitation is an essential part of the invite suite. It allows guests to RSVP and also provides a location for where gifts should be mailed. It also ensures that any undelivered invitations can be returned to the sender.
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, 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.
When addressing envelopes for weddings, it is preferred to put the return address on the back flap of the envelope. This is different from addressing an envelope for a bill or a card for a friend, where you would usually put the return address in the top left corner.
If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer) for your invitations, the return address only goes on the back flap of the outermost envelope. There is no need for a return address on the inner envelope.
The return address should be printed (by hand if possible) on the back envelope flap. This should be the address of the person or persons hosting the event. For example, if the bride's parents are hosting, the invitations should use the parents' address.
Traditionally, names are not included on a formal return address. However, it is okay to include names if you wish. If you do, the return address on your response envelope should include names since the post office will deliver this back to you.
There are no hard and fast rules on how to address your invitations. Yes, there is tradition, but don't feel forced to follow it if it doesn't fit your personality!
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Frequently asked questions
The return address goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only goes on the back flap of the outermost envelope.
Traditionally, the return address should be handwritten. However, it is now acceptable to have the address printed, or to use a mailing label or a return address stamp.
Traditionally, the return address includes the names of the hosts or the individuals sending the invitations. 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 and address can be used instead.
