Elegantly Addressing Guest Names On Wedding Invitations

Writing guest names on wedding invitations is a thoughtful touch that can add a sense of personalisation to your wedding festivities. It is an elegant introduction to your wedding and makes your guests feel special and welcomed. While it is not mandatory to include guest names on wedding invitations, it is a good idea to do so to avoid any confusion about who is invited and who isn't, especially in households with children.

How to address a married couple with the same last name

When addressing a wedding invitation to a married couple with the same last name, there are a few options to consider. The most common approach for formal invitations is to write both spouses' titles on the outer envelope, followed by the husband's first and last name. On the inner envelope, you would then write the couple's collective last name and title. For example:

Outer envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Warren

Inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Warren

However, some women prefer to have their full name included. In this case, you would write the woman's name alongside her husband's. For example:

Outer envelope: Mr. Thomas Warren and Mrs. Michelle Warren

Inner envelope: Mr. Warren and Mrs. Warren

If you prefer a more casual tone, you can simply use the couple's first names on the inner envelope, such as:

Inner envelope: Thomas and Michelle

It is customary to write the male's name first when addressing heterosexual couples. However, this is just a tradition, and you can choose to address the envelopes in a way that feels most appropriate to you. For same-sex couples, you can write their names in alphabetical order. For example:

Outer envelope: Mrs. Kira Gonzalez-Strong and Mrs. Sarah Gonzalez-Strong

Inner envelope: Mrs. and Mrs. Gonzalez-Strong or Kira and Sarah

When addressing the outer envelope, it is important to include the guests' titles, first names, and last names. Middle names are optional. Abbreviating titles is acceptable, but it is best to spell out first names in full. The inner envelope, on the other hand, only requires titles and last names.

How to address a married couple with different last names

When addressing a wedding invitation to a married couple with different last names, there are a few options to consider. The first option is to write their names on the same line, with the woman's name listed first. For example:

"Ms. Maria Stevens and Mr. David Estevez"

If the combined names are too long to fit on one line, you can list them separately, either in alphabetical order or with the person you are closest with first. For example:

"Ms. Celine Elgin and Ms. Jacqueline Purcell"

"Mrs. Cristina Anderson and Mr. Ben McCartney"

When addressing the inner envelope, you can use their titles and last names or just their first names. For example:

"Ms. Stevens and Mr. Estevez" or "Maria and David"

"Ms. Elgin and Ms. Purcell" or "Celine and Jacqueline"

"Mrs. Anderson and Mr. McCartney" or "Cristina and Ben"

It is also important to consider the couple's preferences and what feels most comfortable for you. Some women prefer to have their full names included, while others may appreciate a more casual tone. Ultimately, the most important thing is to be clear and specific about who is invited to the wedding.

How to address unmarried couples

When it comes to addressing unmarried couples on wedding invitations, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is essential to include both guests' names – first and last – on the invitation, even if you have never met the other person in the couple. If the couple lives together, their names should be written on the same line, with no "and" in between. For example:

Mr. Aaron Triguiero

Mr. Gabriel Reyes

Mr. Stanley Kim

Ms. Amanda Rhee

If the unmarried couple does not live together, it is ideal to send a separate wedding invitation to each person. However, if you choose to send only one invitation, address it to the primary invited guest, and include the other person's name on the inner envelope. For example:

Outer envelope:

Miss (or Ms.) Megan Peterman

Inner envelope:

Miss (or Ms.) Peterman

It is also important to be consistent in your approach to inviting unmarried couples. While it may be tempting to keep the guest list from growing, including all partners is the easiest way to avoid upsetting or offending any of your friends and family.

How to address single guests with a plus one

When addressing single guests with a plus one, it's important to be clear about who is invited to your wedding. If you are welcoming plus ones, this should be indicated on the inner envelope. If you are inviting a single guest with a plus one, you can address the outer envelope to the guest, including their title and full name. On the inner envelope, write the guest's name and "and Guest". For example:

Outer envelope:

Mr. Black

Inner envelope:

Mr. Black and Guest

If you are using only one envelope, be sure to list every guest's name, including "and Guest" for those who are allowed to bring a plus one. For example:

Mr. Black and Guest

If you are sending your invitations digitally, be sure to address all invitees clearly and upfront. If you are allowing a guest to bring a casual date, write your friend's name and then "and guest".

It's worth noting that there is some debate about whether it's necessary to include titles on the envelopes. While it is traditional to include titles, some modern approaches forgo them in favour of using only first and last names. If you do include titles, be sure to use the correct title for each guest, taking into account their marital status, gender identity, and any professional titles they may have.

How to address children on wedding invitations

When addressing wedding invitations, it's important to consider the age of the children you're inviting. If the children in the family you are inviting are over 18, they should receive their own invitations. If they are under 18, their names are typically listed only on the inner envelope. Here are some guidelines to help you address children on wedding invitations:

Addressing Children Under 18:

• For girls under 18, you can use "Miss" as an honorific if you wish. Boys don't need a title until they turn 16, at which point they can be addressed as "Mr.".
• The outer envelope is reserved for the names of the parents or guardians. On the inner envelope, list each child by name.
• If you don't include each child's name, you're implying that children are not invited. However, some guests may still assume their kids are welcome. To avoid confusion, be clear about your guest list and consider adding a message to your wedding website.
• Example:
• Outer envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham
• Inner envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Michael Abraham, Daniel, Jeffrey, Miss Brittany, and Mx. Kelly

Addressing Children Aged 18 and Over:

• If you're inviting a family with children aged 18 or older, they should receive their own invitations unless they live at home with their parents.
• You don't need to use titles for adults, but you can if you wish. Be sure to use the correct identifiers, such as "Mr." for men and "Ms." for women.
• Example:
• Outer envelope: Ms. Audrey Abraham
• Inner envelope: Ms. Abraham

General Tips:

• If you're using two envelopes, the outer envelope is more formal, and you should include the recipient's full name and title. The inner envelope is more informal, and you can leave out certain elements, such as the first name.
• If you're using a single envelope, follow the "outer envelope" format and be sure to list all invited guests, including children.
• When addressing a family, you can address it to "The [Last Name] Family" or "Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]" with the children's names listed underneath.

Frequently asked questions