Addressing Wedding Invites: Single Guests And Plus Ones

Wedding invitation wording can be tricky, especially when it comes to addressing single guests and their plus-ones. The outer envelope is the more formal of the two and is what is stamped and addressed, while the inner envelope is more casual and includes the names of the invitees and contains the invitation inside. When it comes to single guests with a plus-one, it is best to know the name of the person they will bring. If not, simply include and guest or list the number of seats reserved.

How to address a single male guest

When addressing a wedding invitation to a single male guest, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to use the guest's preferred title and full name. If they are over the age of 18, use "Mr." followed by their full name on the outer envelope. If they are younger than 18, no title is necessary. Here's an example:

Outer envelope: "Mr. James Montgomery"

If the single male guest has been offered a plus-one, this should not be indicated on the outer envelope. Instead, use "and guest" language on the inner envelope only. Here's an example:

Inner envelope: "Mr. Montgomery and guest" or "James and guest"

The inner envelope is more informal, so you have the option to leave out certain elements of the formal name format used on the outer envelope. You can use only the title and last name or just the first name, especially if you are close to the guest.

It is also important to note that if you are unsure of the guest's preferred title, it is better to forgo the title altogether rather than assume. Additionally, if you are addressing invitations to a single male guest with a distinguished title, such as a doctor, military officer, or judge, be sure to use the appropriate title and name format.

How to address a single female guest

When addressing a wedding invitation to a single female guest, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to use the correct title. If the guest is over 18, use "Ms." If she is younger than 18, use "Miss", spelled out in full rather than abbreviated.

Outer envelope: Ms. Stephanie Chen

Inner envelope: Ms. Chen

If the single female guest has been given a plus-one, there is no need to indicate this on the outer envelope. Simply write the guest's name and add "and Guest" on the inner envelope:

Outer envelope: Ms. Stephanie Chen

Inner envelope: Ms. Chen and Guest

You can also address the guest by their first name only on the inner envelope if you prefer, or if you are very close with the guest:

Outer envelope: Ms. Stephanie Chen

Inner envelope: Stephanie and Guest

If you are unsure of the guest's preferred title, it is best to play it safe by leaving out the title altogether.

How to address a non-binary guest

When addressing a non-binary guest on a wedding invitation, it's important to use the correct pronouns and avoid assumptions about their marital status or preferences. Here are some guidelines to ensure your non-binary guests feel respected and welcomed:

Outer Envelope Etiquette:

The outer envelope is the more formal and traditional component of a wedding invitation. When addressing a non-binary guest, use their full name preceded by the abbreviation "Mx." as the appropriate honorific. For example:

> Mx. Jordan Frank

If your non-binary guest is bringing a plus-one and you know the name of the guest, include their name as you would for an unmarried couple. For example:

> Mx. Blake Ellison and Mr. Drew Tran

If you don't know the name of the plus-one, simply write "and guest" after your non-binary friend's name. For example:

> Mx. Courtney Andrews and guest

Inner Envelope Etiquette:

The inner envelope is more informal and often includes just the names of the invitees. For a non-binary guest, you can use their first name or continue with the same format as the outer envelope, depending on your preference and relationship with the guest. For example:

> Jordan

> or

> Mx. Jordan Frank

Additional Considerations:

It is always a good idea to double-check with your non-binary guests about their preferred titles and pronouns. This shows respect for their identity and helps ensure that your invitation is correctly addressed. Remember, it's important to avoid assumptions and always use the guest's preferred language.

How to address a widowed guest

When addressing a wedding invitation to a widowed guest, it is important to consider their preferences and what they may find most comfortable. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate this sensitive situation:

Outer Envelope Addressing:

The outer envelope is typically more formal and includes the mailing address, postage, and return address. When addressing a widowed guest on the outer envelope, you have a few options:

• Use "Mrs." or "Ms.": Address the invitation to "Mrs." or "Ms." followed by the guest's first name and married last name. For example, "Mrs. Kathleen Jones" or "Ms. Kathleen Jones".
• Use the Husband's Full Name: If the widow has not legally reverted to her maiden name and still uses her married name, you can use "Mrs." followed by her husband's full name. For example, "Mrs. Reginald Thompson".
• Omit Titles: You can also choose to skip the "Mrs." or "Ms." title altogether and simply address the invitation to the guest's full name.

Inner Envelope Addressing:

The inner envelope is usually more informal and includes only the recipient's name and the invitation suite. For a widowed guest, you can follow similar guidelines as for the outer envelope:

• Use "Mrs." or "Ms.": Address the inner envelope to "Mrs." or "Ms." and the guest's first name. For example, "Mrs. Kathleen" or "Ms. Kathleen".
• Use First Name Only: If you are very close to the guest, you may choose to use only their first name on the inner envelope. For example, "Kathleen".

Additional Considerations:

When addressing a widowed guest, it is important to be mindful of their preferences and feelings. Here are a few additional points to consider:

• Time Since Spouse's Passing: If a significant amount of time has passed since the death of their spouse, the widow may prefer to be addressed using her first name or without a title.
• Remarriage or New Relationship: If the widow has remarried or is currently in a new relationship, it is best to use her new married name or preferred title.
• Sensitivity and Compassion: Addressing invitations to a widowed guest can be a delicate matter. It is essential to handle it with sensitivity and compassion. If you are unsure about the guest's preferences, consider asking someone close to her or reaching out respectfully to inquire about her preferred form of address.

Remember, the goal is to make your widowed guest feel comfortable and respected while ensuring that your invitation follows the appropriate etiquette guidelines.

How to address a single guest with a plus one

When addressing a wedding invitation to a single guest with a plus one, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to use the guest's preferred title and full name on the outer envelope. If you are unsure about their preferred title, it is better to forgo the title altogether.

On the inner envelope, you can be less formal. If you know the name of the plus one, write the guest's name followed by their plus one's name. For example, "Sam Li and Guest". If you don't know the name of the plus one, you can simply write "and Guest". This lets the guest know that they are welcome to bring someone along.

It is also a good idea to include an RSVP card with a clear indication of the number of people invited. For example, "_ of 2 will be attending". This will help to avoid any confusion or assumptions about the number of guests invited.

Outer envelope: Mx. Sam Li

Inner envelope: Sam Li and Guest

RSVP card: _ of 2 will be attending

Remember to be consistent with your invitations and apply the same rules to all your guests to avoid any hurt feelings.

Frequently asked questions