Writing Return Address On Wedding Invites: A Simple Guide

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your style and set the tone for your big day. But before you get carried away with the design and wording, it's crucial to ensure your invitations are addressed correctly. A common question that arises is, Where does the return address go? The return address typically goes on the back flap of the invitation envelope, and it's important because it tells guests where to send their RSVPs and gifts. While it's not mandatory, including a return address ensures that any undelivered invitations or gifts are returned to the right place. You can handwrite the return address or use printed labels, stamps, or mailing labels. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed, but you can include names if desired. So, take your pick – traditional or modern, the choice is yours!

Return address format

The return address is placed on the back flap of the invitation envelope and the front side of the response envelopes. If you are using double envelopes, the return address only goes on the outermost envelope.

Traditionally, 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 the address of the person or persons hosting the event. For example, if the bride's parents are hosting, the invitations should use the parents' address.

Formally, only the physical address is listed, with no names. However, it is okay to include names if you wish.

Formal Return Address Format

12 Park Lane

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Casual Return Address Format

Kari and Bradley

23848 Dunmore Loop

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Where to place the return address

The return address is an essential part of your wedding invitation suite, ensuring that guests know where to send their RSVPs and gifts. Here's a detailed guide on where to place your return address for a seamless guest experience.

The Outer Envelope

The outer envelope, also known as the mailing envelope, is the first thing your guests will see when they receive your invitation. This envelope is stamped and addressed to your guests. The return address typically goes on the back flap of this outer envelope. This is where guests will look if they need to confirm the sender's address or if the invitation is undeliverable and needs to be returned.

Inner Envelope Considerations

While some invitation suites include an inner envelope, this is not a requirement and is often omitted nowadays. If you choose to include an inner envelope, it remains unsealed and contains the invitation inside. Traditionally, the inner envelope is not used for the return address as it is meant to indicate the specific guests invited from a household. However, if you are concerned about the outer envelope getting damaged in transit, you can include the return address on the inner envelope as well for added security.

Response Envelopes

In addition to the invitation envelopes, your suite will also include response or RSVP envelopes. These envelopes are for your guests to send back their attendance responses. The return address for these envelopes should be placed on the front side, ensuring that guests know where to send their replies.

Double Envelope Scenario

If you opt for double envelopes (inner and outer) for your invitations, the return address placement is adjusted slightly. In this case, the return address only needs to be included on the back flap of the outermost envelope. There is no need to include it on the inner envelope, as the outer envelope will be used for mailing purposes.

Format and Style

The return address can be formatted in various ways, depending on your preference and the level of formality you wish to convey. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed on the outer envelope, with no names included. However, it is becoming increasingly acceptable to include names, especially on the response envelopes. You can choose to format the return address in a formal or casual style, using titles and full addresses or abbreviations and more relaxed wording.

Return address for gifts

When it comes to wedding invitations, a return address is essential. It tells guests where to send their gifts and responses if they are unable to attend or prefer to send their gift in advance. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for addressing your wedding invitations to ensure that your special day goes smoothly.

Location of the Return Address

The return address typically goes on the back flap of the envelope. If you have an inner envelope, you can also include the return address on the back of this. This ensures visibility and accessibility for the recipient and postal service while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look on the front of the envelope.

Format of the Return Address

When formatting your return address, consider the overall design and formality of your wedding invitations. Choose a font that aligns with your wedding's aesthetic, and use handwritten calligraphy or a printer that mimics calligraphy fonts. If this is not possible, clear and legible handwriting or printed labels are also acceptable. Avoid fancy or overly decorative fonts that may be difficult to read.

The return address should include the names of the hosts or individuals sending the invitations. Traditionally, this would be the bride's parents, but if the couple is hosting their own wedding, their names can be used. Alternatively, you can use a wedding planner's address if they are managing the invitations and RSVPs.

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. Here is an example:

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

12 Park Lane

Mobile, Alabama 36695

When writing the return address, use proper spacing and alignment for a clean and organised look. Align each line with the left margin and avoid abbreviations. Spell out everyone's full name, the street name, the city, and the state. Ensure that the return address on the outer envelope matches the address on the RSVP envelope for consistency.

Other Considerations

While the location and format of the return address are essential, there are also a few other things to keep in mind.

• If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only needs to go on the back flap of the outer envelope.
• Traditionally, only the physical address is listed on the outer 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.
• Consider using return address labels, pre-printed envelopes, or a custom return address stamp for a cohesive and elegant look.

Return address for RSVPs

When it comes to wedding invitations, the return address is important as it tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. The return address usually goes on the back flap of the envelope. If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only needs to go on the outer envelope.

The return address can be handwritten, printed, or stamped, and traditionally, no names are included. However, it is acceptable to include names if desired. The address used can be that of the couple or the hosts of the wedding, usually the bride's parents, and this is also where the RSVPs will be sent.

If you are concerned about guests not receiving their invitations, or you want to ensure the mail is successfully delivered, it is recommended to follow postal guidelines for return address placement. In the United States, this is in the upper left corner of the envelope, with the text 1/2 inch from the left edge and 6 inches from the bottom.

Bride's Parents' Return Address:

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson

12 Park Lane

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Bride and Groom's Return Address (Formal):

Ms. Kari Johnson

Mr. Bradley Shaw

23848 Dunmore Loop

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Bride and Groom's Return Address (Casual):

Kari and Bradley

23848 Dunmore Loop

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Return address labels

There are a few options for the design of your return address labels. Traditionally, no names are included, only the physical address. However, it is becoming more common to include names, especially on the response envelope. If you are using double envelopes, you only need to include the return address on the back flap of the outermost envelope.

You can choose to print your return address labels by hand, or you can use a mailing label, a return address stamp, or get them printed. If you are sending a large number of invitations, printing or using labels may be more efficient. You can design and print your own labels at home or buy pre-printed envelopes. You can also hire a local calligrapher to address your envelopes for you.

It is important to remember that guests who are unable to attend or who wish to send their gifts before or after your wedding will use the return address, so make sure it is correct.

Frequently asked questions