Wording Return Address On Wedding Invites: A Guide

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your style and set the tone for your big day. While the guest address takes centre stage, the return address is an essential component that ensures your envelopes find their way back to you in case of any mailing mishaps. Here's a guide on how to word your return address for wedding invitations, from format to placement, to help you navigate this important detail with ease.

Return address placement

The return address on a wedding invitation envelope serves two purposes: it tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. It is important to get the placement right to ensure your guests' replies make it back to you.

When addressing envelopes for weddings, it is preferred to put the return address on the back flap of the envelope. This is the traditional way to address a wedding invitation. However, this method has fallen out of favour with the United States Postal Service (USPS) because it increases the risk of compromised visibility and delivery success.

The USPS recommends placing the return address on the upper left corner of the envelope, with the text 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom. This method ensures efficient automated sorting and delivery.

If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), 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.

Return address etiquette

The return address on a wedding invitation is an essential part of the invite and is considered standard practice. It allows guests to RSVP and provides a location for gifts to be sent. It also ensures that any undelivered invitations are returned to the sender.

Where to Place the Return Address

The return address should be placed on the back flap of the envelope. If your invitation includes an inner envelope, the return address can also be written on the back of this.

Format

The return address should include the names of the hosts or individuals sending the invitations. Traditionally, only the address is included on the outer envelope, with no names. However, it is acceptable to include names, especially on the inner envelope, which is more informal.

The return address should be formatted with 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 avoid abbreviations and instead write out everyone's full name, the street name, the city, and the state.

Design

When it comes to the design of your return address, there are several options to consider:

• Handwritten calligraphy: This can be done by a calligrapher or by hand, in black ink, for a traditional and elegant look.
• Printer that mimics calligraphy fonts: This is a good option if calligraphy is not possible or if you prefer a more modern aesthetic.
• Clear and legible handwriting: If you have neat handwriting, you may choose to write the return address yourself.
• Printed labels: This option provides a more professional appearance and can be printed at home or by a company.
• Return address labels: These can be printed or designed on your computer and then stuck onto the envelope.
• Pre-printed return address on the envelope: When 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 and stamp it onto the envelope.

Other Considerations

If the bride's parents are hosting the wedding, their address should be used as the return address. Traditionally, the names of the bride and groom should not appear together in print until after the wedding. If the couple is hosting themselves, their names can be used, but it is best to avoid combining last names as they are not yet married.

Return address options

There are several options for return addresses on wedding invitations. The return address is typically placed on the back flap of the envelope, and it is considered standard practice to include it. This allows guests to RSVP and provides a location for gifts to be mailed. Traditionally, the return address on the outer envelope does not include names, only the address. However, it is acceptable to include names if desired. If names are included, the format is usually "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the full address.

If you are using inner and outer envelopes, the return address only needs to be on the outer envelope. The inner envelope is not sealed and is addressed as if hand-delivered. The return address on the response envelope should include names, as this will be used for guests to mail back their RSVPs.

For a formal wedding invitation, the return address should be the names and address of the hosts, usually the bride's parents. If the couple is hosting themselves, their names can be used instead. It is also possible to use a wedding planner's address if they are managing the invitations and RSVPs.

There are a few different ways to get your return address onto the envelope:

• Return address labels: These can be printed at places like VistaPrint or designed and printed at home. They are affordable and simple but may look inelegant, especially if using white labels on coloured envelopes.
• Pre-printed return address on the envelope: This option saves time as there is no need to stick or stamp the address, but it may incur an extra cost and lead time for printing. It also means that if you run out of envelopes, you will need to find another way to add the return address.
• Return address stamp: Similar to labels, you can order a custom stamp with your return address. This option provides a cohesive style with the guest address if using a calligrapher.
• Calligraphy return address: Having a calligrapher write the return address is the most expensive option but ensures a fully matching style with the guest address in terms of writing and ink colour.

When formatting your return address, it is recommended to select a font that aligns with your wedding's aesthetic and avoid fancy or overly decorative fonts. Traditionally, abbreviations are not used, and everything is spelled out in full. The return address should include 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. Each line should be aligned with the left margin to create a clean and organised look.

Who to address the invitations to

When addressing wedding invitations, it's important to consider both the outer and inner envelopes. The outer envelope is what is stamped and addressed, while the inner envelope only contains the names of the invitees and the invitation itself. Traditionally, the inner envelope is not sealed and is placed inside the outer envelope. However, if you prefer a more modern approach, you can opt for just one outer envelope.

Married Couple with the Same Last Name:

For heterosexual couples, the outer envelope is usually addressed to "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the husband's full name. For same-sex couples, either name can go first, with the appropriate prefixes included. On the inner envelope, you can address them as "Mr. and Mrs." followed by their last name or use their first names. If the couple prefers, you can include both first and last names on the outer envelope, ensuring that the woman's name is not left out.

Married Couple with Different Last Names:

For married couples with different last names, write their full names on the outer envelope with "Mr." or "Mrs." For same-sex couples, follow the same format and use suitable prefixes. On the inner envelope, you can use their first names or list their first and last names separately.

Married Couple with One Hyphenated Last Name:

When addressing a spouse with a hyphenated last name, include both full names on the outer envelope, with "Mr." before each name. On the inner envelope, you can use their first names or list the first name of the person you are closest to, followed by "and" and the last name.

Unmarried Couple:

For unmarried couples living together, include both full names on one line on the outer envelope, with appropriate titles. Start with the name of the person you are closer to. On the inner envelope, use their first names or list the first and last names separately.

Single Person:

For single persons, use the proper prefix ("Mr." for men, "Ms." for women, and "Mx." for non-binary individuals) followed by their full name on the outer envelope. On the inner envelope, you can use just their last name or first name. If a plus-one is included, add "and Guest" on the inner envelope only.

Married Couple with Distinguished Titles:

When addressing married couples with distinguished titles, such as doctors, military personnel, judges, or lawyers, use their titles on the outer envelope. Spell out "Doctor" and abbreviate other titles. On the inner envelope, you can use abbreviated titles or just their first names.

Family, Including Children:

When inviting an entire family, you can address the outer envelope to "The [Last Name] Family" or list the parents' names. On the inner envelope, include the names of the children (in order of birth) along with the parents' names. For girls under 18, you can use "Miss." Boys don't need a title until they are 16.

Remember, these are just guidelines, and you can adjust them to fit your preferences and the level of formality you desire for your wedding invitations.

How to format a return address

The return address is an essential part of your wedding invitation. It allows guests to RSVP and also provides a place for gifts to be sent. It is usually placed on the back flap of the envelope, although it can also be included on the back of an inner envelope if you are using one.

When formatting the return address, it is important to consider the overall design and formality of your invitation. You may wish to select a font that aligns with your wedding's aesthetic. Handwritten calligraphy is a popular choice, or you may prefer to use a printer that mimics calligraphy fonts. If these options are not possible, clear and legible handwriting or printed labels can also be used.

The return address should include the names of the hosts or individuals sending the invitations. For example, if the bride's parents are hosting, their names and address should be included. If the couple is hosting their own wedding, their names can be used instead.

When listing the return address, the names should be 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. Each line should be aligned with the left margin, with proper spacing and alignment for a clean and organised look. It is also recommended to avoid using abbreviations and instead spell out everyone's full name, the street name, the city, and the state.

If you are using inner and outer envelopes, the outer envelope is typically more formal and includes the recipient's full name and title. The inner envelope is more informal and may omit certain elements of the formal name format.

Frequently asked questions