Return Address On Wedding Invites: To Include Or Not?

Wedding invitations are a guest's first impression of the big day, and there are endless details to consider when it comes to etiquette. One of the most important things to remember is to include a return address. But where should it go, and whose address should you use? The return address is usually placed on the back flap of the outer envelope and can be printed, handwritten, or added with a stamp or label. It is traditionally the address of the person or couple hosting the wedding, but it can also be the address of the bride's parents. This is so that guests know where to send their RSVPs and gifts if they are unable to attend or wish to send their gift in advance.

Where to place the return address on a wedding invitation

Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your style and personality, and the return address is an important, yet often overlooked, detail. Here are some tips on where to place the return address on your wedding invitations to ensure they look their best and serve their function.

The return address serves two purposes: it tells guests where to send their RSVPs and where to send any gifts if they are unable to attend the wedding or prefer to send them in advance. It is typically placed on the back flap of the outermost envelope, also known as the invitation envelope. This is the preferred placement for formal invitations, as it keeps the front of the envelope elegant and uncluttered, allowing the handwritten address to the guest to shine through.

If you are using double envelopes (an inner and outer envelope), the return address only needs to go on the back flap of the outer envelope. The inner envelope traditionally does not have a return address and is usually left unsealed with the flap tucked inside or loosely sealed with a wax seal or sticker.

While the back flap is the traditional placement, it is also acceptable to place the return address in the upper left-hand corner of the envelope, similar to how you would address a standard letter. This option is great for more casual weddings or if you prefer to showcase your return address creatively, perhaps with a custom stamp or label.

When it comes to the format of the return address, formal etiquette dictates that only the physical address is listed, with no names. However, it is becoming increasingly acceptable to include names, especially on the response envelope, to ensure the post office delivers it to the correct person. If you are following tradition, the return address will be that of the hosts, typically the bride's parents, but you may also use the couple's address or the address where you would like to receive gifts and RSVPs.

The purpose of a return address on a wedding invitation

The return address on a wedding invitation is an important piece of information that serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it tells guests where to send their RSVPs and responses. This is especially important if the couple has designated a specific person or family member to handle the responses, such as the bride's parents or the couple themselves. Including the return address ensures that responses are sent to the correct person and makes it easier for the couple to keep track of their guest list and attendance.

Secondly, the return address is also used to indicate where gifts should be mailed. If guests are unable to attend the wedding or prefer to send their gifts in advance, they will use the return address on the invitation to send their presents. This is a convenient way to ensure that gifts are received and can be especially useful if the couple is expecting to receive gifts before the wedding, such as during their honeymoon.

In addition, the return address can be useful in case of undelivered or returned invitations. By including the return address, the couple can be notified if any invitations are unable to be delivered to the intended recipients. This allows them to update their guest list and ensure that everyone receives their invitation.

When it comes to the placement of the return address, there are a few options. The return address is typically placed on the back flap of the outer envelope. This is considered the traditional and formal placement. Alternatively, it can also be placed in the upper left-hand corner of the envelope, which is a more standard and casual option. The choice of placement ultimately depends on the couple's preference and the desired look of the invitation.

The return address should be the address of the person or persons hosting the wedding. Traditionally, this would be the address of the bride's parents. However, in modern times, it is not uncommon for the bride and groom to host the wedding themselves or together with their families. In such cases, the return address can be the couple's address or a designated address that suits their preference.

Return address etiquette for double envelopes

Wedding invitations traditionally include an inner and an outer envelope. The outer envelope is typically more formal and includes the recipient's name, street address, return address, and postage. The inner envelope is less formal and usually includes only the name of the person or people being invited.

If you are using double envelopes, 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 also acceptable to have it printed, use a mailing label, or a return address stamp.

The return address tells guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. Traditionally, the hosts of the event will collect both gifts and RSVPs, so their address is used. However, there may be situations where gifts are mailed to the bride's parents' address, especially if they arrive while the couple is on their honeymoon. In this case, the return address would be the bride's parents' address.

When addressing the envelopes, there are a few options for how to format the return address. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed, with no names. However, it is also acceptable to include names, such as "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson" for a formal affair. For a more casual approach, first names only or first and last names can be used, such as "Kari and Bradley".

• The return address can be placed in the upper left-hand corner of the envelope or on the back flap of the outer envelope.
• If using a response card envelope, the return address should go in the upper-left-hand corner.

Return address placement for RSVP cards

The return address on RSVP cards is essential, as it indicates where guests should send their replies and gifts. Traditionally, guests would mail their responses to the parents of the bride or the host(s) of the wedding. Nowadays, many brides prefer to handle responses themselves and use their address instead.

The return address for RSVP cards should be placed on the front side of the response envelopes. It is also worth noting that the return address is usually placed on the back flap of the outer invitation envelope. However, this is not necessary if you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), as the return address only goes on the outermost envelope.

There are different ways to format the return address. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed, with no names included. However, it is acceptable to include names, especially on the response envelope, as the post office will deliver it back to you. If you want to include names, the following are some options for formatting:

• For a formal wedding, use "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the last name of the bride's parents and their address.
• For a casual wedding, use the first names of the bride and groom followed by their address.
• For a formal wedding where the couple is hosting, use "Ms." for the bride and "Mr." for the groom, followed by their names and address, or use a hyphenated title such as "The Smith-Edwards Wedding".

Some couples choose to print guests' addresses on the RSVP envelopes to make it easier to keep track of responses. Others prefer to number the RSVP cards or envelopes lightly in pencil to match with a numbered guest list. This ensures that even if a guest forgets to write their name, the response can still be identified.

Return address format

The return address on wedding invitations is important as it tells guests where to send their gifts and responses. It is usually placed on the back flap of the outer envelope and on the front side of the response envelopes.

If you are using double envelopes (inner and outer), the return address only needs to go on the back flap of the outermost envelope. The return address should be the address of the person or people hosting the wedding. Traditionally, this is the bride's parents, but nowadays, it is not uncommon for the bride and groom to host the event together with their families.

Formally, the return address should be handwritten and only include the physical address with no names. However, it is now acceptable to include names and to use printed labels or a return address stamp.

Outer Envelope (formal, no names):

12 Park Lane

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Outer Envelope (including names):

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson

12 Park Lane

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Response Envelope (bride and groom, formal):

Ms. Kari Johnson

Mr. Bradley Shaw

23848 Dunmore Loop

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Response Envelope (bride and groom, casual):

Kari and Bradley

23848 Dunmore Loop

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Frequently asked questions