Writing Wedding Invites: Formatting Street Addresses With Style

When it comes to addressing wedding invitations, there is a specific etiquette that is generally followed. While the world of wedding planning continues to evolve, it's always good to be up-to-date on how to address the envelope, especially if you're aiming for a formal feel. Here's a quick guide on how to write street addresses on your wedding invitations to ensure they are delivered correctly and create a good first impression.

Spell out street names and numbers

When writing out the address on a wedding invitation, it is best to spell out all words, including street names and numbers. This means writing out "Street", "Road", "Avenue", "Boulevard" and "Lane" in full, rather than using abbreviations like "St", "Rd" or "Ave".

For example, instead of writing "1234 SW 100th Street", you would write "1234 Southwest One Hundredth Street". This is because writing out the street name and number in full is more formal and ensures that your invitation adheres to traditional wedding invitation etiquette.

However, it is important to note that you should not spell out numbers above 20. For instance, "14th Street" would be written as "Fourteenth Street", but "25th Street" would be written as "25th Street".

Additionally, when writing out the address, it is also preferable to avoid using ampersands ("&") and instead use the full word "and" between guests' names and in the street address. For example, instead of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith", you would write "Mr. and Mrs. Smith".

Following these guidelines will ensure that your wedding invitations are both formal and traditional, and will help to create a consistent and elegant look for your special day.

Abbreviations for directions

When it comes to abbreviations for directions, there are a few different approaches you can take when writing out street addresses on wedding invitations. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you decide on the best approach for your invitations:

Formal Wedding Invitations:

If you are having a formal wedding or a black-tie affair, it is best to stick to traditional rules and avoid abbreviations. This means spelling out all words in the address, including directions. For example, you would write "Southwest" instead of using the abbreviation "SW". The same goes for street types like "Street", "Drive", "Avenue", and "Boulevard". These should all be spelled out in full.

Less Formal Wedding Invitations:

If your wedding is less formal, you have more flexibility with abbreviations. You can choose to abbreviate directions and street types if you prefer. For example, "SW 100th Street" or "100th St". However, it is important to note that you should never abbreviate zip codes or house numbers. Always use figures for these, such as "1234" for the house number and "98765" for the zip code.

Calligraphy and Readability:

If you plan to use calligraphy for your invitations, spelling out all abbreviations can add a touch of elegance and formality. It is also a safe option to ensure your invitations are delivered without any issues. On the other hand, if you're concerned about readability, using abbreviations for directions and street types can make the address easier to scan and understand at a glance.

Consistency and Guest Preferences:

Consistency is key when addressing your wedding invitations. Choose a style for abbreviations and stick with it across all your invitations. This creates a unified look and feel for your invitation suite. Additionally, consider your guests' preferences. If you're unsure about how to write a particular address, you can ask your guests for their preferred format or refer to how they provided their address to you.

Postal Service Guidelines:

Keep in mind that the postal service may have specific guidelines or preferences for abbreviations. In some cases, they might require abbreviations for efficiency and processing. Check with your local postal service or look up the official address format online to ensure your invitations will be delivered without issues.

In conclusion, the choice to abbreviate directions on your wedding invitations depends on the formality of your event, readability, consistency, and postal service guidelines. Remember to apply your chosen style across all your invitations and consider your guests' preferences when in doubt. Happy addressing!

Include apartment numbers

When including an apartment number in a wedding invitation address, it is best to spell out the word "apartment" in full, rather than using an abbreviation. For example, you would write "Apartment 14" instead of "Apt. 14".

The apartment number should be written on a separate line to the street address. For example:

> Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Johnson

> 123 Sesame Street

> Apartment 1F

> New York, New York 10101

If you are having your invitations typed or printed, rather than handwritten, the apartment number can be included on the same line as the street address, with a comma separating the two. For example:

> Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Johnson

> 123 Sesame Street, Apartment 1F

> New York, New York 10101

However, if you are having a very formal wedding, it may be best to avoid this format, as it is more casual.

It is also worth noting that, while the postal service prefers the use of state abbreviations, such as "NY" for New York, it is more formal to write out the full state name.

City, state, and zip code

When it comes to the city, state, and zip code, there are a few formatting guidelines to follow. Firstly, states should be spelled out in full; for example, use "Georgia" instead of "GA". For the zip code, use figures rather than spelling it out.

For a more formal invitation, avoid abbreviations and spell out all words in the address. Instead of "St.", "P.O. Box", and "Apt.", use "Street", "Post Office Box", and "Apartment". This also applies to directions; for example, write out "Southwest" instead of using "SW". House numbers below 20 should also be written out; for instance, "fourteenth street" instead of "14th Street".

However, if you're aiming for a more casual tone, abbreviations are acceptable. For instance, you can use "St.", "Rd.", and "CA" for "Street", "Road", and "California", respectively. Additionally, for street names with three-digit numbers, it's preferable to use numerals, such as "100th Street" instead of spelling it out.

Formal Address Example:

Mr. John Corner and Mrs. Jenifer Corner

16 Faux Road

Fremont, California 94539

Casual Address Example:

Mr. John Corner and Mrs. Jenifer Corner

16 Faux Rd

Fremont, CA 94539

Return address

The return address is a key component of your wedding invitation envelopes. It ensures that your invites are returned to you in case of any issues during transit. The return address goes on the back flap of your invitation envelope and the front side of your response envelopes. If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only goes on the back flap of the outermost envelope.

Traditionally, the return address should be handwritten and only include the physical address with no names. However, it is now acceptable to have the return address printed, use a mailing label, or a return address stamp. If you decide to include names, the return address on the response envelope should include the names of the couple or hosts of the event, as guests who are unable to attend or who wish to send gifts will send packages to this address.

For the return address on the invitation envelope, use the address of the person or persons hosting the event. If the bride's parents are hosting, use their address. If the couple is hosting, use their address but only include their first names or first and last names, as it is considered formal to not have the bride and groom's names together in print before marriage.

Outer envelope (invitation envelope):

• Formal: Only include the physical address with no names - 12 Park Lane Mobile, Alabama 36695
• Informal: Include the first names of the couple - Kari and Bradley, 23848 Dunmore Loop, Mobile, Alabama 36695

Response envelope (RSVP envelope):

• 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

Frequently asked questions