Franklin Dean
Wedding invitations are a crucial part of the wedding planning process. It's important to ensure that your wedding invitations are addressed properly to make your guests feel welcome on your big day. The return address tells guests where gifts and RSVPs are to be mailed. Traditionally, the return address goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. This can be handwritten, printed, or use a mailing label or a return address stamp. The return address should include the host's name and address, which is usually the couple or the bride's parents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Return address location | Back flap of the envelope |
| Return address 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 |
| Return address names | Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding; if the couple is hosting, their names can be used |
| Guest address location | Front of the envelope |
| Guest address format | Recipient's full name(s) and personal title(s) |
What You'll Learn
Return address placement
The return address is an important component of your wedding invitation as it tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. It is usually placed 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 needs to go on the outermost envelope.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) recommends placing the return address in the upper left corner of the envelope, with the text 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom. This ensures quick automated sorting and delivery. However, this may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option, especially for formal weddings.
If you prioritise the design and prefer a clean, uncluttered look, you can place the return address on the back flap of the envelope. This provides more space for artistic expressions on the front and emphasises the essential details like the recipient's address and the wedding date. However, this placement may increase the risk of compromised visibility and delivery success, as it deviates from USPS guidelines.
When it comes to the return address format, it should formally be handwritten, but it is also acceptable to have it printed, use a mailing label, or a return address stamp. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed without any names. However, you can include names if desired, such as the hosts of the wedding, which may be the bride's parents or the couple themselves.
Creating Pocket Folder Wedding Invites: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Return address etiquette
The return address is a key component of your wedding invitation. It tells your guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. It also ensures that any undelivered invitations are returned to the correct address.
Where to Place the Return Address
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 needs to go on the outermost envelope.
Format
Formally, the return address should be handwritten. However, it is now acceptable for it to be printed, or for you to use a mailing label or a return address stamp.
Whose Address to Use
In most cases, you will use the same address for both the invitation envelope and the response envelope. Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding will be noted as the return address, so this may be the couple or a parent.
Names
Formally, only the physical address is listed on the invitation envelope, with no names. However, it is acceptable to include names if you wish. The return address on the response envelope should include names so that the post office can deliver it back to you.
Options for Return Addresses
There are several options for getting your return address onto the envelope:
- Return address labels: Printed at places like VistaPrint and Shutterfly, or designed on your computer and printed at home.
- Pre-printed return address on the envelope: If you are ordering envelopes online, you can often add your return address for a small fee.
- Return address stamp: You can order a custom stamp with your return address.
- Calligraphy return address: A calligrapher can write your return address by hand.
Examples
Invitation Envelope (Outer Envelope):
12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama 36695
Response Envelope:
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson, 12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama 36695
Printing Wedding Shower Invites: A Step-by-Step Guide
You may want to see also
Return address options
The return address is usually placed on the back flap of the outer envelope and is traditionally the address of the host of the wedding. For the RSVP return envelope, the address used should be that of the person(s) designated to receive response cards.
There are several options for formatting your return address:
- Return address labels: Printed at places like VistaPrint and Shutterfly, or designed on your home computer and printed on label paper. This is an affordable and simple option, but may look inelegant and inconsistent with the guest address.
- Pre-printed return address on the envelope: When ordering envelopes online, you can often add your return address for a small fee. This saves time, but costs extra and may not be possible if you need more envelopes at short notice.
- Return address stamp: Similar to labels, you can order a custom return address stamp. This option provides a cohesive style with the guest address and can be used over and over again.
- Calligraphy return address: The most expensive option, but also the most elegant and time-saving for the client. This option ensures a 100% match in writing style and ink colour.
Formally, the return address should be handwritten, but it is now also acceptable for this to be printed, or for a mailing label or stamp to be used.
Whose return address you use depends on your preference. In most cases, you will use the same address for both the outer envelope and the RSVP envelope. Traditionally, the hosts of the event will collect both gifts and RSVPs for the couple. However, some couples may prefer gifts to be mailed to the bride's parents' address, especially if they are going on a honeymoon straight after the wedding.
If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only goes on the back flap of the outermost envelope.
Creating a Faux Wedding Invite
You may want to see also
Inner and outer envelopes
The use of inner and outer envelopes for wedding invitations is a long-standing tradition. The outer envelope is the mailing envelope that contains the guest's address, while the inner envelope is designed to keep the invitation suite intact and pristine. The inner envelope also serves to clarify who is invited to the wedding.
Outer Envelope
The outer envelope is the formal envelope with the recipient's address, full name, title, and sometimes even middle name. It is larger than the inner envelope and is used to protect the inner envelope and its contents during transit. The outer envelope is also where you would include a return address, which tells guests where to send gifts and responses. The return address is usually placed on the back flap of the outer envelope, and it is acceptable to include names or just the physical address.
Inner Envelope
The inner envelope is more casual and is used to specify exactly who is invited to the wedding. It can include titles such as Mr., Mrs., Miss, or first names only. The inner envelope is smaller and is placed inside the outer envelope. It is important to include all the names of the invited guests at a particular address on the inner envelope. Not including a person's name implies that they are not invited.
Examples
Married Couple (Same Last Name)
- Outer Envelope (Formal): Mr. and Mrs. John Rivera
- Inner Envelope (Formal): Mr. and Mrs. Rivera
- Outer Envelope (Contemporary): Celine and Jacqueline
- Inner Envelope (Contemporary): Ms. Elgin and Ms. Purcell
Single Person with a Plus-One
- Outer Envelope: Mx. Sam Li
- Inner Envelope: Sam Li and Guest
Family with Young Children
- Outer Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham
- Inner Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham, Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany, and Mx. Kelly
Military Personnel (Both with Military Titles)
- Outer Envelope: Captains Jane and Jonathan Kelly, US Navy
- Inner Envelope: Lieutenant Kelly, US Navy, and Mrs. Kelly
Inviting Guests to Your Wedding Rehearsal Dinner
You may want to see also
Hosts and gift return addresses
The return address on a wedding invitation is an essential part of the invite suite. It tells guests where gifts and RSVPs should be mailed and protects your invite from any mailing mishaps.
Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding would be noted as the return address. This may be the couple themselves or the parents of the bride, for example. It is also possible to use a wedding planner's address if they are overseeing the invitation process and managing RSVPs.
The return address should be placed 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.
Formally, the return address should be handwritten, but it is also acceptable for this to be printed, or for you to use a mailing label or a return address stamp.
The return address should include the names of the hosts or individuals sending the invitations 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.
- Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson, 12 Park Lane, Mobile, Alabama, 36695
- Ms. Kari Johnson, Mr. Bradley Shaw, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama, 36695
- Kari and Bradley, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama, 36695
Creating Wedding Invites: Digital Guide for Couples
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The return address typically goes on the back flap of the envelope. This is considered the preferred location as it allows for easy visibility and accessibility for the recipient and postal service, while also maintaining a clean and uncluttered look on the front of the envelope.
The return address should include the 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. It is recommended to use proper spacing and alignment, ensuring that each line is aligned with the left margin.
When addressing a married couple with the same last name, use "Mr." and "Mrs." followed by the husband's first and last name. For a married couple with different last names, write their names on the same line with the woman's name first. If they have hyphenated last names, include both last names. For unmarried couples, address both people on one line, listing the person you are closest with first.
You can consider using return address labels, which can be printed or designed on your own and stuck on the envelope. Another option is to have your return address pre-printed on the envelope when ordering envelopes online. Alternatively, you can use a custom return address stamp or opt for handwritten calligraphy for the return address.
