Wedding Invitation Etiquette: To Lick Or Not To Lick?

Wedding planning is a tedious task, and one of the most important aspects is sending out invitations to your friends and family. After finalizing the guest list, dates, and venue, you need to ensure that your wedding invitations are sealed properly before mailing them out. While some people opt for the traditional method of licking the envelopes, others prefer using alternative methods such as sponges, wet paper towels, or glue sticks. Licking a large number of envelopes can be tiresome and time-consuming, and some people may find it unhygienic. There are various creative and effective ways to seal envelopes, ensuring that your invitations arrive in perfect condition and creating a good first impression for your special day.

Alternatives to licking: sponges, q-tips, wet paper towels, glue, stickers, and more

There are several alternatives to licking envelopes to seal them, especially if you have a large number to do, such as for a wedding. Here are some quick, efficient, and cost-effective methods to seal envelopes without licking them.

Sponges

Using a damp sponge is a popular method. Simply wet a sponge with water and dab it onto the glue. Be careful not to soak the sponge, as you don't want water dripping onto the envelope and potentially damaging the contents.

Q-tips

Similarly, you can dip a Q-tip into some water and run it along the glue on the flap. This is a very precise method, and a good way to avoid getting paper cuts from the envelope flap.

Wet Paper Towels

Using a damp paper towel or washcloth is another option. Simply dampen a small area of the towel and press or run it along the glue.

Glue

A simple glue stick can be used by running it over the adhesive flap and applying a little bit of pressure when closing. This may even strengthen the seal.

Stickers, Tape, and Seals

You can bypass the envelope's adhesive by using stickers, tape, or envelope seals. You could use self-adhesive labels, sellotape, or wax seals, for example.

Self-Seal Envelopes

Finally, you could opt for a different type of envelope altogether. Self-seal envelopes are sealed by applying pressure to the flap when closed, which activates the adhesive properties. Peel and seal envelopes have a tear-away strip that exposes an adhesive strip.

Licking in groups or sharing the load

Licking envelopes can be a tedious task, especially when it comes to sealing wedding invitations. It is not uncommon for couples to consider alternative methods to avoid the unpleasant taste and sensation of licking dozens of envelopes.

One option is to divide and conquer. Couples can share the load by taking turns licking the envelopes, ensuring that the task is completed faster and with less fatigue. This approach can also make the process more enjoyable and provide an opportunity for the couple to work together towards their special day.

However, it is important to note that licking too many envelopes in one sitting can be tiresome and even cause discomfort. To avoid this, couples can opt to lick the envelopes in groups or batches. For example, they can decide to lick a certain number of envelopes each day until they are all sealed. This approach can help maintain motivation and prevent the task from becoming overwhelming.

Another strategy is to enlist the help of friends or family members. Hosting a "licking party" can make the process more fun and provide an opportunity for loved ones to get involved in the wedding preparations. With a group of people working together, the task can be completed in no time.

It is worth noting that some people may be hesitant to lick envelopes due to concerns about the taste or potential chemicals. In such cases, using a damp sponge, cloth, or paper towel can be a viable alternative. This method allows for a more precise application of moisture and avoids direct contact with the envelope adhesive.

In conclusion, sealing wedding invitations by licking the envelopes can be made more manageable by sharing the load with your partner or loved ones. By licking in groups or batches and incorporating fun into the process, couples can ensure that their invitations are securely sealed without losing motivation.

Licking and health: the risk of paper cuts and toxic glue

Licking envelopes to seal them is a common practice, but it does come with some potential risks to your health. While it may be convenient to simply wet the envelope's adhesive strip with your tongue, there is a chance of getting a paper cut from the flap, which can be painful and lead to bleeding. Additionally, there are concerns about the hygiene and potential toxicity of the glue itself.

Paper cuts from envelopes may seem minor, but they can be quite painful and increase the risk of infection if not properly cleaned and cared for. The thin, sharp edges of paper can easily cut the delicate skin on your tongue, lips, or fingers, and the mouth provides a moist environment for bacteria to thrive. It is important to be cautious when handling envelopes to avoid this type of injury.

Now, let's address the concerns about glue. The taste of envelope glue is often unpleasant, and it can dry out your tongue. While it is generally considered safe to ingest in small quantities, as it is typically made from gum Arabic, a sap derived from trees, there are some concerns about its cleanliness. Envelopes are produced in factories, and the glue may be exposed to various contaminants during the manufacturing process.

Furthermore, there have been urban legends and pop culture references, such as the "Seinfeld" episode, where a character's fiancée dies from licking toxic glue on cheap wedding invitations. While this is likely exaggerated for comedic effect, it does raise valid concerns about the potential risks of licking envelopes. It is always advisable to exercise caution and opt for alternative sealing methods, such as using a damp sponge, cotton swab, or glue stick, to avoid any potential health hazards associated with licking envelopes.

In conclusion, while licking envelopes to seal them may seem like a quick and convenient option, it is important to consider the potential risks to your health. Paper cuts, unpleasant taste, and concerns about glue toxicity and hygiene should all be factored in when deciding how to seal your wedding invitations. It is always better to be cautious and explore alternative sealing methods to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for both you and your recipients.

Licking and presentation: the taste and appearance of envelopes

The taste and appearance of envelopes are two important considerations when sending out wedding invitations. While it may seem like a small detail, the way you seal your envelopes can impact the overall presentation of your invitations. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Taste

Some people may be hesitant to lick envelopes due to concerns about the taste of the glue. The taste of envelope glue can vary, but it is generally not pleasant. Some people describe it as "nasty" or "gross", and it can leave a bad taste in your mouth. If you have a sensitive palate or are sending out a large number of invitations, you may want to consider an alternative sealing method to avoid an unpleasant taste sensation.

Appearance

The appearance of your envelopes is crucial, as you want your invitations to look neat and well-presented. Using a sponge or a wet cloth can sometimes result in too much moisture, causing the envelopes to become wrinkled or rippled. This can give your invitations a sloppy and unprofessional look. To avoid this, you can try using a Q-tip or a paintbrush to apply water or adhesive more precisely. Alternatively, you can use clear glue sticks, double-sided tape, or wax seals to ensure a smooth and secure seal without the risk of moisture damage.

Alternative methods

If you want to avoid licking envelopes altogether, there are several alternative methods you can consider:

• Envelope moisteners: These are small devices that can be filled with water and used to apply moisture to the envelope flap.
• Stickers or seals: You can find cute and elegant stickers or seals at craft stores or online, which can add a decorative touch to your envelopes while keeping them securely closed.
• Glue sticks: Clear glue sticks provide an easy and mess-free way to seal envelopes without the need for licking.
• Tape rollers: Double-sided tape rollers are another convenient option, especially for straight flap envelopes.

Final tips

Regardless of the sealing method you choose, here are some additional tips for the best results:

• Heavy compress: After sealing, place your envelopes under something heavy while they dry to reduce flap wrinkling and ensure a strong seal.
• Inner envelopes: Wedding invitations typically come with two sets of envelopes. The outer envelope, which will be handled by postal workers, should be sealed, while the inner envelope can simply be tucked in as a sign of trust towards the recipient.

Licking and time: the efficiency of licking vs alternatives

Licking envelopes is a time-consuming task, and when it comes to wedding invitations, efficiency is key. With large numbers of invitations to send out, couples need to consider the most time-saving method to seal their envelopes.

Licking

Licking envelopes may be the traditional method, but it is not always the most efficient, especially when dealing with large numbers. Some people find it unpleasant, and it can be time-consuming, as you may need to take breaks between licking to avoid feeling sick. It can also be unhygienic, and there are concerns about the safety of the glue.

Alternatives

There are several alternative methods to seal envelopes that can save time and provide a more pleasant experience. These include:

• Using a sponge and water: This method can be more precise than licking, but it may require some experimentation to get the right amount of water.
• Q-tip and water: A thin Q-tip can be used to moisten the glue, and then press firmly around the flap to seal.
• Paintbrush, water, and water-soluble adhesive: This method allows you to hold more water and adds extra security with the adhesive.
• Clear glue sticks: You can use your own glue to moisten and stick the flap.
• Double-sided tape roller: This method works well with straight flap envelopes.
• Wax sealers and stick-on sealers: These methods provide a secure seal and can add a touch of luxury to your invitations.
• Envelope sealers: These are small devices that can be filled with water and squeezed to moisten the glue.

While licking envelopes may be the default method for sealing envelopes, there are several alternatives that can be more efficient, especially when dealing with large numbers of invitations. These methods can save time, provide a more pleasant experience, and ensure a secure seal. By considering the number of invitations and personal preference, couples can choose the most suitable method for their needs.

Frequently asked questions