Creating A Wedding Card Envelope: Diy Guide

Wedding cards are a great way to express your happiness and excitement for the newlyweds. While the message inside the card is important, the envelope is the first thing the couple will see, so it's essential to address it correctly and make a good impression. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect wedding card envelope:

- Use Formal Addressing: It is recommended to address the envelope in a formal manner, even if you plan to use a more casual tone inside the card. Use full names and appropriate titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr., etc.).

- Consider Contemporary Style: While traditional rules exist, you may prefer to use a contemporary style. For example, instead of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, you could write James and Charlotte.

- Address Married Couples Correctly: If the couple has the same last name, write their names on the same line. If they have different last names, list the person you are closest to first or go in alphabetical order.

- Include Plus-One Information: When addressing a single person with a plus-one, mention only the person you know by name on the envelope, and include and Guest on the invitation.

- Be Mindful of Titles: If one or both members of the couple have distinguished titles, such as doctors, lawyers, or judges, use those titles on the envelope.

- Avoid Abbreviations: Avoid using abbreviations for street names, cities, or states. If sending internationally, ensure you follow the correct address format for the destination country.

- Add Return Address: Include the sender's address on the rear flap of the outer envelope. This does not include the sender's name, only the address.

- Choose Handwriting or Printing: You can either handwrite the envelope, ensuring neat and legible writing, or print the addresses using a matching font to your invitation. Alternatively, hire a calligrapher for a professional look.

- Seal and Mail: Finally, seal the envelope using an envelope moistener or a wax seal. Hand-cancelling your envelopes at the post office can help reduce the risk of damage during mailing.

Choosing the right envelope

Type of Envelope:

The first decision you need to make is whether to use a single outer envelope or both an inner and outer envelope. Using a single outer envelope is a more modern and sustainable approach, while using both is more traditional and can provide extra protection for your invitation. If you opt for a single envelope, all invited parties should be listed, including plus-ones and children.

Size of Envelope:

The size of your envelope will depend on the size and number of your invitation cards and enclosures. Standard envelope sizes range from 4 ¼" x 5 ½" to 5 ¾" x 9 ¼". It's important to choose an envelope that comfortably fits all your contents without being too bulky.

Colour and Design:

The colour and design of your envelope can be chosen to match your wedding theme or the design of your invitation suite. You can select from a variety of colours, such as white, silver, grey, blush, blue, navy, and more. Consider adding envelope liners, belly bands, or ribbons for a stylish touch.

Addressing the Envelope:

When addressing the envelope, it's essential to use the correct titles and full names of your guests. Traditionally, the outer envelope is more formal, with titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr., etc.) and full names, while the inner envelope is more informal, with first names only. However, contemporary styles may forgo titles altogether and use first and last names only. Be sure to use the guests' current addresses and avoid abbreviations for a neat appearance.

Assembly and Mailing:

Finally, take care when assembling and mailing your invitations. Insert the invitation suite in the correct order, with the left edge or folded edge first, so that the text is visible when the envelope is opened. Seal the envelopes with care, using bottled envelope moisteners to avoid excess moisture. Consider hand-cancelling your invitations at the post office to reduce the risk of damage during mailing.

Remember, you can always seek professional help from a calligrapher or printing services to ensure your envelopes are addressed beautifully and accurately.

Addressing the envelope

Outer Envelope:

The outer envelope is the one that will be stamped and sent through the mail. It should include the recipient's full name and address. Here are some guidelines for different recipient scenarios:

• Married Couple with the Same Last Name: Traditionally, the man's full name is written first, followed by "Mr. and Mrs." and then the last name. For a less traditional approach, you can include both their first names. For example: "Mr. and Mrs. Jackson Clarke" or "Mr. Jackson Clarke and Mrs. Mary Clarke".
• Married Couple with Different Last Names: In this case, write out their full names with "Mr." or "Mrs." You can list the names in either order, depending on whom you are closer to or alphabetical order. For example: "Mrs. Gwyneth Brookes and Mr. Cyan Matthews" or "Mr. Cyan Matthews and Mrs. Gwyneth Brookes".
• Single Person with a Plus One: Address the envelope only with the name of the person you know. Include their name and "and Guest" on the invitation. For example: "Ms. Sophie Westbourne" on the envelope, and "Ms. Westbourne and Guest" on the invitation.
• Unmarried Couple Living Together: Include both names on separate lines on the envelope, listing the person you are closer to first or in alphabetical order if you are equally close. For example: "Mr. Benjamin Clarke" and "Ms. Sophie Westbourne".
• Family with Children: If you are inviting a family with young children (under 18), list the parents' names on the outer envelope and the children's names on the inner envelope. For children over 18, each should receive their own invitation. For example: "Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Fletcher" on the outer envelope, and include the children's names on the inner envelope.
• Titles: If a guest has a distinguished title, such as a doctor, lawyer, judge, or military personnel, it is proper to address them by that title. For couples with titles, list the person with the higher-ranking title first or in alphabetical order. For example, for doctors: "Dr. Anne Barker and Mr. Peter Underwood" on the outer envelope, and "Dr. Barker and Mr. Underwood" on the inner envelope.

Inner Envelope:

The inner envelope is optional and is used to indicate the names of the guests addressed by the invitation. It is more informal than the outer envelope, and you may use just the first names of the guests or their titles and last names.

General Tips:

• Avoiding Abbreviations: While it is acceptable to use abbreviations for street names, cities, or states in casual invitations, it is best to avoid them for a more formal look.
• Return Address: Include the sender's address on the rear flap of the outer envelope. Only the address is included here, without the sender's name.
• Handwriting vs. Printing: You can either handwrite the envelopes, especially if you have neat handwriting, or print the addresses to match the font of your invitation. You can also hire a calligrapher for a professional look.
• Ink Color: Use black ink for the addresses to match the invitations.
• Wax Seals: Consider using wax seals for a traditional touch, but note that they will require additional postage.
• Mailing: Bring a fully assembled invitation to the post office to determine the correct postage required. It is recommended to hand-cancel the invitations at the post office to reduce the risk of damage during mailing.

Inner envelopes

Wedding invitations can include an inner envelope, which is placed inside the outer envelope. The inner envelope is optional and is used to indicate the names of the invitees. It is more informal than the outer envelope and can include the couple's title with their last names or just their first names.

For a Single Person:

On the inner envelope, you can use their title and last name, such as "Ms. Johnson". If you prefer a more casual approach, you can simply use their first name, like "Ali".

For a Single Person With a Plus-One:

On the inner envelope, mention both names if you have that information. For example, "Sam Li and Guest".

For a Married Couple:

On the inner envelope, you can use their titles and last names, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Rivera". Alternatively, you can go with a more modern approach and use their first names, like "John and Samantha".

For an Unmarried Couple:

On the inner envelope, provide each person's name on a separate line. For example, "Mr. Triguiero" and "Mr. Reyes".

For a Family with Children:

On the inner envelope, list each child's name. For girls under 18, you can use "Miss" if desired. Boys don't need a title until they are 16. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham, Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany, and Mx. Kelly".

Outer envelopes

Formatting and Titles

The outer envelope is typically formal and includes the recipient's full name(s) and their personal title(s). This is a foolproof option that works for couples of all genders, regardless of whether they share the same surname. Using titles like Mr., Mrs., Ms., and Mx. is recommended if you're having a formal wedding. However, if you want a more modern or casual approach, you can forgo the titles and use only the first and last names of your guests. Remember to use the correct titles for guests with distinguished titles, such as doctors, lawyers, or judges.

Married Couples

When addressing a married couple, put their names on the same line. If they have different last names, list the person you are closest to first, or go in alphabetical order if you're equally close to both. If the wife has kept her maiden name, write her name first, followed by the husband's name.

Unmarried Couples

For unmarried couples living together, include both names on separate lines. List the person you are closest to first, or go in alphabetical order if you have no preference.

Single Person with a Plus One

Address the envelope with only the name of the person you know. On the invitation, mention their name and "and guest."

Families with Children

For families with young children under 18, reserve the outer envelope for the parent(s) or guardian(s) names. List each child's name on the inner envelope. If you don't include each child's name, it implies that children are not invited. For families with children over 18, each child should receive their own invitation unless they live at home with their parents.

Return Address

The rear flap of the outer envelope can include the sender's address, without the sender's name.

Handwriting or Printing

You can choose to handwrite the envelopes, especially if you have neat handwriting. Alternatively, you can print the addresses in a matching font to your invitations or hire a calligrapher for a professional look.

Envelope sealing

When it comes to sealing your wedding card envelopes, there are several methods you can use to ensure they stay securely closed. Here are some detailed, step-by-step instructions for various sealing methods:

Using Adhesive Strips:

• Purchase envelopes with adhesive strips. These are available on Amazon and other online retailers.
• Peel off the protective paper from the adhesive strip.
• Insert your invitation and enclosures into the envelope.
• Close the envelope and press the adhesive strip firmly to seal it shut.

Using Water and a Q-Tip or Paintbrush:

• This method involves moistening the glue or gum seal on the envelope flap.
• Use a Q-tip or a thin paintbrush to apply water precisely to the glue area.
• Close the envelope and press firmly around the entire perimeter of the flap two or three times to ensure a strong seal.
• If using a paintbrush, you can also add a small amount of water-soluble adhesive for extra security.

Using Glue:

• Clear glue sticks or paper glue can be used as an alternative to envelope adhesives.
• Apply a thin layer of glue to the envelope flap, being careful not to use too much to avoid wrinkling.
• Insert your invitation and enclosures, then close and press the flap to seal.

Using Double-Sided Tape:

• Double-sided tape or adhesive rollers can be used to seal envelopes, especially those with straight flaps.
• Apply the tape along the envelope flap.
• Insert your invitation and enclosures, then close and press the flap to seal.

Using a Wax Seal:

• Wax seals add a luxurious and unique touch to your wedding invitations.
• After inserting your invitation and enclosures, close the envelope and apply the wax seal to the flap.
• Note that wax seals will require additional postage, so be sure to check with your local post office.

Using a Heavy Compress:

• This method can be used as a final step after any of the above sealing methods.
• Place the sealed envelopes under a heavy book or other weight while they dry to reduce flap wrinkling and ensure a strong seal.

No matter which sealing method you choose, always ensure that your envelopes are securely closed before mailing. It's also a good idea to bring a fully assembled invitation to your local post office to determine the correct postage and to have them hand-cancel your invitations, reducing the risk of damage during mailing.

Frequently asked questions