Writing Wedding Invitations: Crafting The Perfect Aptitude

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your guests receive a well-assembled and expertly addressed invitation. One of the key considerations is how to write the apartment number or Apt. correctly. While it may seem like a minor detail, adhering to the proper etiquette demonstrates that you have put thought into your invitations. The general rule is to spell out all words in the address, including using Apartment instead of Apt. However, it's worth noting that some sources suggest using Unit as a cute shortcut.

Abbreviations: when to use them and when not to

The general rule of thumb is to avoid abbreviating words on wedding invitations, especially if the event is formal or semi-formal. This means that dates, times, addresses, and street names should be written out in full. For instance, you would write "the first of December, two thousand eighteen" instead of "December 1, 2018" and "three o'clock in the afternoon" instead of "3 p.m.". Similarly, do not abbreviate state names like "Pennsylvania" [instead of] "PA", and street names like "Street" instead of "St".

However, titles like "Mr.", "Mrs.", "Miss", and "Ms." are acceptable abbreviations on the invitation envelopes. If you are inviting a married couple, you can use "Mr." and "Mrs." followed by the husband's full name, or write out each person's first name. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Johnson" or "Mr. Samuel and Mrs. Eliza Johnson".

When addressing a married couple with the same last name, you can use "The Mesdames" for two women or "The Mssrs." for two men, followed by their first names and last name. Alternatively, you can use "Mrs. and Mrs." or "Mr. and Mr." if you prefer a less formal approach.

If you are inviting a couple with different last names, write out each person's full name with their respective titles. For instance, "Mr. Frank Smith and Mrs. Grace Apple".

For unmarried couples at the same address, use "Miss" or "Ms." for the woman and "Mr." for the man, followed by their full names. For example, "Miss (or Ms.) Emily Jones, Mr. Williams".

When it comes to apartment numbers, opinions vary. While some sources suggest spelling out "Apartment", others recommend using "Apt." or even "Unit" to save space and for aesthetic reasons.

It's worth noting that you have more flexibility with modern invitation designs or very informal weddings. In these cases, abbreviations can be used to match the style or tone of your invitation.

• Always use full, given names instead of nicknames.
• Find out your guests' pronouns before addressing the envelopes.
• Include titles like "Dr.", "PhD", and "Esq." where appropriate.
• Fully spell out street names, such as "Lane", "Court", "Street", and "Road".
• Spell out numeric street names, for example, "Sixty-Seventh Street" instead of "67th Street".
• Be clear about whether children are invited by including "and Family" after their parents' names.
• Avoid abbreviating North, South, East, and West, as well as generational suffixes like "Senior" and "Junior".
• Use "Mx." for guests who use "they/theirs" pronouns.

Spell out all words in the address

When writing out addresses for wedding invitations, it is best to spell out all words. This means writing out "Street", Road, Avenue, Boulevard, and Lane in full, rather than using abbreviations like "St." or "Rd.". The same goes for "North", South, East, and West.

For example, instead of writing "123 Main St., Anytown, NY 00000", you would spell out "Street" and "New York", like so: "123 Main Street, Anytown, New York 00000".

If you are including an apartment number, it is also best to spell this out. So, instead of "123 Main St. Apt. 1", you could write "123 Main Street, Apartment 1, Anytown, New York 00000".

House numbers smaller than twenty should also be written out. So, instead of "123 Main St.", you could write "One Hundred and Twenty-Three Main Street".

Zip codes, however, should be written using numerals, so "00000" rather than "zero zero zero zero zero".

If you are sending invitations to guests outside of the United States, the same principles apply. Spell out the street name, road, avenue, etc., and the city. For example, "123 High Street, London, England".

Return address: where to place it

The return address is a key component of your wedding invitation envelopes. It tells your 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. 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.

Formally, the return address should be handwritten, but it is now acceptable for this to be printed, or for you to use a mailing label or a return address stamp.

The return address should be printed 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 wedding, the invitations should use the parents' address. Traditionally, names are not included on a formal return address. However, you can choose to include names if you wish.

If you are sending 'Save the Dates' or more informal invitations, you may choose to abbreviate 'Apartment' to 'Apt.' or use 'Unit' instead.

Outer and inner envelopes: when to use them

The use of two envelopes for wedding invitations is a traditional custom. The outer envelope contains all the information the postal service needs for delivery, including the full address and postal code. It is acceptable to use abbreviations such as "St." and "Apt." on the outer envelope. The outer envelope should also include the titles and surnames of the invited guests in the household, including children.

The inner envelope is placed inside the outer envelope and ensures that each guest will receive an immaculate envelope, even if the outer one is damaged during delivery. The inner envelope should include the names of the invited guests in the household, including children whose names were omitted from the outer envelope. The inner envelope can also include the first names of the couple, depending on the couple's preference.

When addressing guests, it is important to use their full names and appropriate titles, such as "Mr." and "Mrs." for married couples. For unmarried couples living together, their names should be written on separate lines without the word "and." The outer envelope for a single guest would include only their name and title, while the inner envelope would include their name, followed by "and Guest."

Although using two envelopes is a long-standing tradition, it is not mandatory. If you choose to omit the inner envelope, ensure that the outer envelope is carefully assembled and addressed to create a positive first impression.

How to assemble the invitation and its enclosures

Assembling your wedding invitations is an exciting task, but it can also be confusing if you're unsure of the correct way to do it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to assemble your invitations and their enclosures:

Step 1: Prepare your supplies

Before you begin, gather all the pieces of your invitation order, including addressed envelopes, postage, envelope moistener, adhesives, and any other supplies needed for the assembly. Wash and dry your hands to avoid leaving marks on the paper, and consider the effect of your manicure on the stationery.

Step 2: Stack the enclosures

The traditional way to stack your enclosures is to place the RSVP card under the flap of its envelope, with the card face up and the addressed side of the envelope face down. Then, stack the remaining enclosures face-up, starting with the largest piece on the bottom and working your way up.

Step 3: Place the enclosures on the invitation

Place the stack of enclosures on top of the invitation, which is typically the largest card in the suite. If you are using tissue paper or a vellum overlay, place it on top of the invitation before adding the enclosures.

Step 4: Add the reception card

If you have a separate reception card, place it face-up on top of the stack of enclosures.

Step 5: Include other enclosure cards

Place any remaining enclosure cards, such as a map, hotel accommodations, or travel information cards, face-up on top of the reception card. If there is more than one enclosure card and they are different sizes, start with the largest and work your way down to the smallest.

Step 6: Don't forget the RSVP card and envelope

Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the left. Insert the RSVP card under the envelope flap, face-up, so that the printed side is visible. Pre-address and stamp the RSVP envelope to expedite the response process.

Step 7: Use a belly band or ribbon (optional)

If you want to add a finishing touch to your invitation suite, consider using a belly band or ribbon to hold the stack together. Center the belly band over the stack and secure it with clear stickers. For a ribbon, cut it to the desired length, place the invitation suite on top, and tie it in your preferred style.

Step 8: Insert into the envelope

If you are using an inner envelope, place it inside the mailing envelope with the guest names facing the open side. Then, insert the fully assembled invitation suite, with the text facing up, into the inner envelope first, followed by the outer envelope. When the envelope flap is opened, the printed side of the invitation should be visible.

Step 9: Seal the envelope

Use an envelope moistener, a damp sponge, or saliva to activate the glue on the mailing envelope flap. Press down firmly to seal, or place the envelope under a heavy book if it doesn't want to stay closed.

Step 10: Calculate postage and send

Take one fully assembled invitation to your local post office to determine the exact postage required, including any additional charges for embellishments. Send out your invitations 4-6 weeks ahead of your wedding celebration.

Frequently asked questions