Why Do Wedding Invitations Have Two Envelopes?

Wedding invitations with two envelopes are a formal tradition that dates back to the days of horse-drawn mail delivery. The outer envelope, which contains the inner envelope with the invitation card, would often get dirty or damaged during the long journey. The inner envelope ensured that the invitation remained clean and undamaged. In modern times, the double envelope is used for both practical and aesthetic reasons. It adds a layer of protection, provides an opportunity to display envelope liners, and helps to clarify who is invited to the wedding.

The tradition of double envelopes

The use of double envelopes for wedding invitations is a long-standing tradition that dates back to the days of horse-drawn mail delivery and unreliable postal services. The outer envelope, which would get dirty during its journey, served to protect the inner envelope, ensuring that the invitation remained clean and undamaged by the time it reached its recipient.

A Practical Choice

The double envelope system provides an extra layer of protection for wedding invitations, which are often formal and elegant. Even with modern postal systems, envelopes can still get torn, crumpled, or bent during delivery. The outer envelope safeguards the inner envelope, ensuring that the invitation arrives in pristine condition. This is especially important for couples who invest in custom envelope liners or intricate designs, as it prevents any damage that may occur during the opening process.

A Formal Affair

The use of double envelopes is also an indicator of formality and tradition. In modern times, the presence of two envelopes suggests that the wedding will be a formal affair. It adds a touch of elegance and class to the invitation suite, enhancing the overall presentation.

Addressing Confusion

Double envelopes also serve a practical purpose in addressing etiquette. The outer envelope is addressed formally, typically to the heads of the household, while the inner envelope includes the names of all invited individuals, such as children or additional family members. This system clarifies who is invited to the wedding, especially in the case of adults-only weddings or when plus ones are allowed. It helps to avoid any confusion or awkward misunderstandings on the day of the wedding.

A Touch of Personalisation

The inner envelope provides an opportunity for personalisation and creativity. Couples can have fun with colour and pattern, adding energy and life to a neutral invitation suite. It also allows for the display of envelope liners, which may go unnoticed if placed in the outer envelope.

A Matter of Preference

While the tradition of double envelopes has its roots in practicality and formality, it is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Some couples may choose to forgo the outer envelope to save costs, time, or conserve paper. However, for those who want to uphold tradition or add a touch of elegance to their invitations, double envelopes are a timeless choice.

Practical reasons for using two envelopes

The use of two envelopes for wedding invitations is a long-standing tradition that dates back to the days of horse-drawn mail delivery. While the practice is no longer necessary, there are still some practical reasons for using two envelopes today.

One of the main benefits of using two envelopes is the added protection it provides for your invitations. The outer envelope serves as a shield, protecting the inner envelope and its contents from dirt, tears, bends, and other damage that can occur during the mailing process. This is especially important if you've invested in custom envelope liners or intricate designs that you want your guests to see and appreciate.

Another practical advantage of double envelopes is the clarity it offers when it comes to addressing your guests. The outer envelope is typically addressed formally to the heads of the household, while the inner envelope includes the names of everyone invited, such as children or additional family members. This helps to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding about who is (or isn't) invited to the wedding.

The inner envelope also provides an opportunity for guests to fully appreciate your envelope liners. Since the outer envelope needs to be sealed for mailing, guests often have to tear it open, which can obscure the liner. In contrast, the unsealed inner envelope allows guests to simply lift the flap, fully revealing the liner design.

Using two envelopes can also add a touch of elegance and formality to your wedding invitations, signalling to your guests that your wedding will be a traditional and upscale affair.

While the use of two envelopes is not necessary, these practical considerations may influence your decision to incorporate this tradition into your wedding invitation suite.

Visual reasons for using two envelopes

The use of two envelopes for wedding invitations dates back to the days of horse-drawn mail delivery, when the outer envelope would often arrive dirty and damaged. The inner envelope would be clean and pristine, ready to be handed to the recipient by the butler.

Today, the tradition of using two envelopes is both practical and aesthetic. The outer envelope protects the inner envelope from scuffs, dirt, and debris during the mailing process. This ensures that your guests receive a clean, undamaged envelope, with any custom designs or illustrations intact.

The inner envelope provides a crucial opportunity to add a pop of colour or a unique pattern. It can be a visual workhorse, bringing energy and life to a neutral invitation suite. You can have fun with different colours, patterns, and envelope liners to create a beautiful presentation for your guests.

Additionally, the inner envelope is the perfect place to showcase your envelope liners. Since the outer envelope needs to be sealed for mailing, guests will need to tear it open, which may obscure the liner. In contrast, the inner envelope remains unsealed, allowing guests to simply lift the flap and fully appreciate the liner's design.

The use of two envelopes also adds a sense of formality and elegance to your wedding invitations. It signals to your guests that your wedding will be traditional and formal, setting the tone for an upscale evening celebration.

Etiquette and addressing envelopes

The use of two envelopes for wedding invitations is a long-standing tradition, dating back to the Industrial Revolution when invitations were delivered by hand. The outer envelope is addressed, sealed, and stamped, while the inner envelope houses the invitation, keeping it clean and protected. Here are some etiquette tips for addressing wedding invitation envelopes:

Formal vs Informal Addressing Style:

The level of formality of your wedding will influence the style of addressing. For a formal, glamorous black-tie affair, opt for a traditional and elegant addressing style. In contrast, a laid-back country wedding may call for a more casual and relaxed approach.

Use of Full Names and Professional Titles:

For formal correspondence, use the recipients' full names, including their middle names if you know them. Avoid nicknames, and spell out all words, such as Street or Avenue, instead of using abbreviations. For professional titles, include designations such as Doctor or Professor.

Addressing Married Couples:

When addressing married couples, the traditional format is "Mr. and Mrs." followed by the husband's first and last name (e.g., Mr. and Mrs. Henry Jones). However, using the wife's first name is also acceptable, especially if she uses her maiden name (e.g., Mr. John Smith and Ms. Jane Johnson). If the couple uses different last names, use "Ms." and "Mr." with full names, joined by "and" (e.g., Ms. Anna Smith and Mr. Henry Jones).

Addressing Unmarried or Same-Gender Couples:

For unmarried or same-gender couples living together, use "Ms." and "Mr." with full names, joined by "and" (e.g., Ms. Emily Wood and Mr. George Swan). If both names cannot fit on one line, write them on separate lines without the conjunction (e.g., Ms. Nancy Hall, followed by Mr. George Swan on the next line).

Addressing Children:

For invitations, explicitly state which members of a household are invited by including their names on the envelope. Children under 18 should be listed on the line below their parents' names, without titles or last names (e.g., Mr. and Mrs. Henry Jones, followed by Emma, James, and Stephen on the next line).

Use of "Mx.":

"Mx." is a universal title that can be used by anyone, regardless of gender identification. It is particularly useful when you are unsure of the recipient's preferred title.

Hiring a Professional:

If you want to add a touch of elegance to your envelopes, consider hiring a professional calligrapher. Alternatively, you can enlist a friend or family member with impeccable handwriting to address the envelopes by hand, or use custom-printed labels for a convenient and efficient solution.

Assembling and mailing double envelopes

Double envelopes for wedding invitations are a traditional practice that dates back to the Industrial Revolution era, when the postal service was unreliable and invitations were delivered by hand. The use of two envelopes serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. The outer envelope protects the inner envelope and its contents from the rigors of mailing, while the inner envelope keeps the invitation clean and elegant.

Step 1: Prepare the Inner Envelope

The inner envelope is slightly smaller than the outer envelope and does not require sealing. If you are using an envelope liner, line the inner envelope. Place your invitation inside the inner envelope so that the front of the invitation is visible when the envelope flap is lifted. The inner envelope should be addressed informally, including the names of the invited guests and any additional information regarding children or plus ones. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Howard, Emily and Julie".

Step 2: Assemble the Outer Envelope

Once the inner envelope is prepared, it's time to assemble the outer envelope. Place the sealed inner envelope inside the outer envelope, ensuring that the informal address on the inner envelope is facing out. The outer envelope should be addressed formally, including titles, first, and last names. For example, "Mr. and Mrs. Daren Bradshaw". Don't forget to include the mailing address, return address, and postage stamps on the outer envelope.

Step 3: Seal and Mail

To seal the outer envelope, it is recommended to use an envelope moistener with adhesive. Apply even pressure to ensure a secure seal. Take a completed invitation to the post office to get an accurate postage quote before stamping and sending out your invitations.

Step 4: Consider the Benefits

Using double envelopes for your wedding invitations offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides extra protection for your invitations during mailing. Secondly, it allows you to be clear about who is invited, avoiding any misunderstandings on the day of your wedding. Additionally, the inner envelope provides an opportunity to showcase your envelope liners, as guests can simply lift the flap to view them.

Frequently asked questions