Wedding Invitation Envelope: Order Of Insertion

Wedding invitations are a key part of wedding planning, and assembling them correctly is important to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. The invitation suite refers to the components of the wedding invitation itself, including everything that goes in the envelope. Here is a step-by-step guide to assembling your wedding invitations and stuffing them into envelopes:

- Start with the invitation card, which is usually the largest card in the suite, and place it face up on the table.

- If you have chosen to include a tissue paper or vellum overlay, place it on top of the invitation card. Traditionally, this was used to prevent smudging, but it is now optional.

- Add the reception card, if applicable, face-up on top of the invitation or tissue paper. This card includes the time, location, and dress code of the wedding reception.

- Include any remaining enclosure cards, such as a map, hotel accommodations, or travel information cards, face up on top of the reception card. If there are multiple enclosure cards, start with the largest and work your way down.

- Don't forget the RSVP card and envelope. Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards, and insert the reply card under the envelope flap, face-up. Pre-address and stamp the RSVP envelope to make it easier for your guests to respond.

- If using two envelopes (an inner and outer envelope), insert the assembled invitation suite into the inner envelope first, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation, or the folded edge for a folded invitation. The printed side should be visible when the envelope flap is opened. Then, insert the inner envelope into the outer envelope, ensuring the guests' names are visible.

- If using a single outer envelope, insert the fully assembled invitation suite with the left edge or folded edge going in first, so that the printed side is visible when the envelope is opened.

Order of cards in the envelope

The order of cards in a wedding invitation envelope is important to ensure that your guests receive a pristine invitation with all the necessary information. Here is a detailed guide on the order in which you should arrange the cards:

• Invitation Card: Start with the invitation card, which is usually the largest card in the suite. Place it at the bottom of the stack, with the printed side facing up.
• Tissue Paper or Vellum Overlay: Traditionally, a sheet of tissue paper was included to prevent ink smudging. If you choose to include it, place the tissue paper on top of the invitation card. Alternatively, you can use a vellum overlay, which is also placed over the invitation card.
• Reception Card: If you are providing separate reception details, include a reception card. Place it face-up on top of the invitation card (or tissue/vellum). This card includes the time, location, and any relevant dress code information for the reception.
• Enclosure Cards: Place any additional enclosure cards, such as maps, hotel accommodations, and travel information, on top of the reception card. If there are multiple enclosure cards, arrange them from largest to smallest.
• RSVP Card and Envelope: The RSVP card and its envelope are essential. Place the RSVP envelope face-down on top of the enclosure cards, with the flap on the left. Insert the RSVP card under the envelope flap, face-up, so that the printed side is visible. Don't forget to pre-address and stamp the RSVP envelope.
• Belly Band or Ribbon: If you are using a belly band or ribbon to hold the suite together, place it over the stack of cards and secure it with a clear sticker or tie it neatly.
• Inner Envelope (optional): If you are using an inner envelope, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into it, with the left edge going in first for a single card or the folded edge for a folded invitation. The printed side should be facing up so that guests can see it when they open the envelope.
• Outer Envelope: Finally, insert the inner envelope (or the fully assembled suite if you are not using an inner envelope) into the outer envelope, with the left edge or folded edge going in first. Again, ensure that the printed side is facing up.

Remember, the general rule is to place the cards in size order, with the largest card at the bottom and the smallest on top. This ensures that your guests can easily access and read each card without having to shuffle through the entire suite.

Inner and outer envelopes

Wedding invitations traditionally include an inner and outer envelope. The outer envelope is stamped and addressed, while the inner envelope contains the names of the invitees and the invitation itself. The inner envelope is placed inside the outer envelope, with the guests' names facing the back flap.

The outer envelope is more formal and includes the full name(s) and title(s) of the recipient(s). This envelope is usually addressed only to the heads of the household. The inner envelope is more informal and lists the names of everyone invited from that household, such as children or additional family members. This can help to clarify who is invited to the wedding.

The use of two envelopes dates back to when mail was delivered by horse and carriage, and the outer envelope would often become damaged or dirty. Although the postal system has modernised, envelopes can still get torn or bent, so using two envelopes helps to ensure that the invitation arrives in pristine condition.

However, using two envelopes is no longer necessary and some couples choose to omit the inner envelope to reduce costs and paper usage.

Addressing the envelopes

Outer and Inner Envelopes:

Traditionally, wedding invitations are sent out using two envelopes: an outer envelope and an inner envelope. The outer envelope includes all the information required by the postal service for delivery, such as the recipient's full name, address, and postal code. The inner envelope is more informal and includes the names of the invited guests in the household, including children. The inner envelope is placed inside the outer envelope, with the names facing the back flap. While it is not necessary to use an inner envelope, it adds a touch of formality and ensures that the outer envelope remains pristine during delivery.

Address Format:

When addressing the envelopes, it is essential to follow proper etiquette. Here are some guidelines:

• Full Names: Write the full names of the recipients on the outer envelope, including their personal titles (Mr., Mrs., Ms., Miss, or Mx.). For married couples with the same last name, you can address them as "Mr. and Mrs. [Last Name]." If they have different last names, list their names separately or in alphabetical order.
• Social Titles: Use appropriate social titles, such as "Dr." for doctors, "Esq." for lawyers, and military ranks for military personnel.
• Spell Out All Words: Spell out words like "Street" instead of using abbreviations like "St." and write out the city and state names in full.
• Children's Names: If inviting a family with children, list each child's name on the inner envelope. For girls under 18, you can use "Miss." Boys do not need a title until they are 16, when they can be addressed as "Mr."
• Unmarried Couples: For unmarried couples living together, list each name on a separate line, with the person you are closest to or in alphabetical order.
• Single Person with a Guest: Address the outer envelope to the invited guest, and on the inner envelope, write their name followed by "and Guest."

Return Address:

The return address is typically printed on the back flap of the envelope. While blind embossing (colourless raised lettering) was traditionally used, most couples now opt for printing the return address in the same style as the invitations.

Timing and Mailing:

It is recommended to send out wedding invitations about six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to respond and allows you to get a reliable headcount. Give yourself enough time to organise the address list and double-check all the details before mailing.

Handwriting vs. Printing:

Handwriting addresses is a nice personal touch, and you may consider hiring a calligrapher for this task. However, printed guest address labels or pre-printed envelopes are also acceptable and can save time and effort.

Envelope liners

When it comes to choosing envelope liners, you have a variety of options to consider. They come in different sizes, such as 7" x 5.125", 6" x 4.3", 4.875" x 3.5", and 5.125" x 5.125". You can also find them in various designs, including floral, contemporary, and rustic themes. These designs can range from intricate patterns to delicate motifs, allowing you to create an enchanting first impression that harmonises with your unique wedding vision.

In addition to their aesthetic value, envelope liners provide a memorable first impression for your guests. They set the tone for the elegance and sophistication your guests can expect from your wedding celebration. Investing in high-quality envelope liners demonstrates your attention to detail and your commitment to creating an unforgettable experience for your loved ones.

When assembling your wedding invitations, the envelope liners are usually added towards the end of the process. After stacking your invitation suite in the desired order, you can slide the envelope liner into the envelope using the adhesive strip. Make sure to centre the liner and press it firmly to ensure it is secure. Then, insert the fully assembled invitation suite into the envelope, with the left edge going in first for a single-card invitation or the folded edge for a folded invitation.

Postage and handling

Now that your invitations are assembled, it's time to weigh them. Bring a completed invitation to the post office to have it weighed; many require postage for at least two ounces, which usually exceeds the cost of a first-class stamp. Have a reply card and its envelope weighed as well, to ensure that you don't over- or underpay for that postage.

While at the post office, ask what's available for stamps, or browse through a wider variety at usps.com. You can also purchase vintage stamps from philatelic societies. They are worth the amount printed on them, but they can cost much more since they are collectible and limited in quantity. You can also customise stamps to go with the theme of your wedding or use a monogram you've chosen.

You can take your invitations to the post office and request that they be hand-cancelled. Machines print bar codes on the envelopes, but hand-cancelling – just marking each stamp – keeps invitations neat and prevents damage that machines can cause.

Some towns will cancel your stamps for you, imprinting them with their names. Call ahead to let the postmaster know the invitations are on their way. Then enclose your stamped, addressed invitations in a large padded envelope or box, along with a note detailing your request, and send it to the postmaster in your chosen town. Consider sending the envelopes Priority or Express Mail so you can track the package. Do ask the postmaster how long it will take so that you can allow enough time for invitations to be delivered, postmarked, and mailed out.

• Bliss, New York 14024; 585-322-7740
• Bridal Veil, Oregon 97010; 503-695-2380
• Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514; 919-942-4170
• Darling, Mississippi 38623; 662-326-8408
• Deary, Idaho 83823; 208-877-1470
• Groom, Texas 79039; 806-248-7988
• Harmony, Rhode Island 02829; 401-949-2745
• Honeyville, Utah 84314; 435-279-8213
• Kissimmee, Florida 34744; 407-846-0999
• Lovely, Kentucky 41231; 606-395-5848
• Loving, Texas 76460; 940-378-2259
• Luck, Wisconsin 54853; 715-472-2079
• Romance, Arkansas 72136; 501-556-5911

Frequently asked questions