Handwritten Wedding Invites: A Personal Touch Or Too Much?

Wedding invitations are an important part of the big day, setting the tone, theme, and style of the wedding. While the invitation itself is key, the envelope is the first thing guests will see, and it's important to get it right. There are a few options for addressing envelopes, from handwriting them yourself to hiring a professional calligrapher, or even printing them at home. So, what is the best way to address wedding invitation envelopes?

Handwritten vs. Printed

There are several options to consider when addressing wedding invitation envelopes. Handwriting addresses can be a time-consuming process, but it adds a personal touch to your invitations. On the other hand, printed addresses are more convenient and can save you time and money. Here is a detailed look at the pros and cons of each option.

Handwritten Addresses

Handwriting your wedding invitation envelopes can be a beautiful and traditional way to address your invitations. It adds a personal touch, and if you have nice handwriting, it can be a great way to showcase your style. However, it can be time-consuming and may not be feasible if you have a large guest list.

If you choose to handwrite your addresses, it is important to allow enough time to complete the task and order extra envelopes for any mistakes. You can also consider hiring a professional calligrapher to address your envelopes, which can add a luxurious and elegant touch to your invitations. However, this option can be expensive, with prices ranging from $1 to $5+ per envelope.

Printed Addresses

Printing your wedding invitation envelopes is a modern and convenient option that can save you time and money. Online stationer companies often offer free guest addressing services, allowing you to simply upload your contacts and have the addresses printed directly onto the envelopes. This option is especially useful if you have a large guest list or are working with a tight budget.

Printed addresses can also be achieved by printing at home and tracing over the text with a fountain pen. This DIY option allows you to choose a fancy script font and create a more personal touch. However, it can be time-consuming and may not guarantee the desired results.

In conclusion, both handwritten and printed addresses have their advantages and disadvantages. Handwritten addresses are more traditional and personal, while printed addresses are more convenient and cost-effective. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences.

Hiring a Calligrapher

Finding a Calligrapher

Use word-of-mouth recommendations or ask within your circle if anyone knows a calligrapher. You can also search for calligraphers online or on social media. Websites like Thumbtack can be a good place to start, as they offer reviews and ratings from previous clients.

Cost

The cost of hiring a calligrapher can vary depending on their level of experience and your location. On average, calligraphers charge $3.50 to $5.50 per envelope. However, some may charge significantly less, but remember that you get what you pay for.

Timing

It's recommended to book your calligrapher when you book your invitations. Calligraphers can get booked up quickly, and there may be limits to how much work they can take on, so it's best to get on their production calendar early. Allow about two weeks for production time.

Benefits of Hiring a Calligrapher

Examples of Calligrapher Services

• Laela's Calligraphy (DC/VA/USA) provides wedding invitation envelopes and excellent customer service.
• Katie Rhee Calligraphy offers creative advice and helps bring your ideas to life. She works with various materials, including wine bottles.
• Blanca Lewis Calligraphy (San Francisco Bay Area) provides responsive, friendly service and produces beautiful work.

Etiquette and Tradition

The rules of wedding invitation etiquette are ever-changing, making it difficult for modern couples to find up-to-date information. Historically, the tradition of sending wedding invitations dates back to the Middle Ages when wealthy families would commission monks, skilled in the art of calligraphy, to hand-craft their notices. Before that time, the job was left to the town crier to announce an impending wedding.

Traditionalists argue that hand-addressed envelopes follow proper wedding protocol and etiquette. The key takeaway, though, is that handwritten addresses are thought to be more personal for such a special occasion.

If you're adhering to strict etiquette, there are a few guidelines to follow when addressing wedding invitations. The outer envelope should be formal—the foolproof option is to write out the recipient's full name(s), including their personal title(s). This format works for couples of all genders who may or may not share a surname and still feels somewhat traditional.

If personal titles feel restrictive and exclusive for your guest list, you can forgo them and use first and last names only. It's important to double-check each attendee's preferred personal title beforehand if you plan on incorporating them into your invitations.

Inner envelopes are more informal, giving you the option to leave out one or two elements of the formal name format of the outer envelope. You can use personal titles and last names, or go for a more casual vibe with first names only.

If you're addressing a married couple, put their names on the same line. If they have different last names, list the person you're closest with first, or go in alphabetical order. If one person has taken the other's surname, you can reflect that in the address.

For unmarried couples living together, both names should be included on the envelope but on separate lines. Again, list the person you're closest with first or go alphabetically.

When it comes to addressing a family, the outer envelope is reserved for the name(s) of the parent(s) or guardian(s). You should list each child by name on the inner envelope. For girls under 18, you can use "Miss" if you wish. Boys don't need a title until they're 16, at which point they can be addressed as "Mr."

If you're inviting a family with children aged 18 or older, they should each receive their own invitation unless they live at home with their parents. You don't need to use titles, but you can if you wish. Just be sure to use the correct identifiers.

If a guest has a distinguished title, such as a doctor, lawyer, judge, or military personnel, it's proper etiquette to address them by that title on the envelope. When sending an invitation to a couple, list the guest with the professional title first, or if both guests have special titles of equal rank, you can list their names alphabetically.

There are a few other things to keep in mind when addressing your wedding invitations. Firstly, give yourself enough time to get the address list in order so you can send out your invitations punctually. Secondly, if you're only sending one envelope, all invited parties should be clearly stated on the front, including guests that are typically only listed on the inner envelope, such as plus-ones and children.

Cost and Time

The cost and time involved in addressing wedding invitation envelopes will depend on the method you choose. Here are some options to consider:

Handwriting your own envelopes

This option can be time-consuming, especially if you have a large number of invitations to send out. It may also require purchasing extra envelopes to allow for mistakes. However, it can be a cost-effective option, as you only need to invest in pens and paper. If you have neat handwriting, this can be a good way to add a personal touch to your invitations without incurring additional expenses.

Hiring a professional calligrapher

Calligraphy is a beautiful and traditional way to address wedding invitations, but it can be expensive. Pricing can range from $1 to $5+ per envelope, depending on factors such as turnaround time, style, special materials, and the type of paper used. Most calligraphers schedule a two-week turnaround time, so it's important to book in advance to avoid rush order fees.

Printing addresses on envelopes

Printing addresses on envelopes is a modern and convenient option that can save you time and money. Online stationers like Minted offer free guest addressing services, allowing you to upload your contacts and have the addresses printed directly onto the envelopes. This option also includes customisation options, such as choosing a calligraphy-inspired font to mimic the look of handwritten envelopes. However, you may need additional equipment like a printer and ink, and there is a risk of errors leading to wasted envelopes and money.

Using address labels

While not traditionally used for wedding invitations, address labels can be a quick and easy solution. Clear labels with a fancy font for the name and a standard font for the address can be a cost-effective option. However, it may not give the high-quality finish expected for a wedding invitation.

Addressing Envelopes Yourself

Addressing your wedding invitation envelopes yourself is a great way to save money and add a personal touch. However, it can be a time-consuming and painstaking task, especially if you have a large guest list. Here are some tips to help you address your envelopes like a pro:

Plan Ahead:

Give yourself enough time to address all the envelopes without rushing. Order extra envelopes in case of mistakes, and consider addressing a few each day to avoid last-minute stress.

Handwriting vs. Printing:

If you have neat handwriting, you can write out the addresses yourself. This adds a personal and elegant touch to your invitations. Alternatively, you can print the addresses on the envelopes, either directly or using labels. Printing is a more modern approach that can save time and ensure consistency.

Tools and Materials:

For handwritten envelopes, choose a nice pen with ink that won't smudge or leak through the paper. Ultra-fine point markers or dip pens with metal nibs can give you a polished finish. If printing, use a high-quality printer with consistent ink cartridges to avoid smudging.

Etiquette and Format:

Follow proper etiquette when addressing envelopes, including titles and full names. The outer envelope should be formal, while the inner envelope can be more informal. For couples, put their names on the same line if married and on separate lines if unmarried. Always double-check names, titles, and addresses to avoid mistakes.

Practice and Patience:

Handwriting envelopes requires patience and practice. Take the time to perfect your technique and consider different lettering styles to match your wedding's theme and formality. Remember, consistency is key, and your handwriting will improve with practice.

Return Addresses:

You don't need to handwrite the return address. Instead, use a custom stamp to add a unique touch. This can be more efficient and help you avoid mistakes.

Addressing your own wedding invitation envelopes can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to infuse your personality and style into each envelope. Remember to plan, practice, and be patient, and don't be afraid to ask for help from your bridal party or a professional calligrapher if needed. Happy addressing!

Frequently asked questions