Wedding planning can be a stressful affair, and one of the many things to consider is the placement of return address labels on wedding invitations. The return address is a key component of your wedding invitations as it tells your guests where gifts and responses should be mailed. Traditionally, the return address is placed on the back flap of the envelope, though it is becoming more common to see it printed directly on the envelope. There are several options for the design of the return address, including printing, labels, stamps, or even handwritten calligraphy.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Where to place the return address | Back flap of the envelope |
Return address format | No names included, but it is okay to include names |
Who to include as the return address | The hosts of the wedding, traditionally the bride's parents |
How to include the return address | Handwritten, printed, mailing labels, or a return address stamp |
What You'll Learn
Return address labels go on the back flap of the envelope
Wedding planning can be a stressful process, but there are some quick and easy rules to follow when it comes to addressing your invitations. Return address labels go on the back flap of the envelope, and this tells your guests two important things: where to send gifts in advance of the wedding, and where to send their RSVP.
There are a few different ways to go about creating these return address labels. You could use mailing labels, a return address stamp, or have your return address pre-printed on your envelopes. Mailing labels can be printed at places like VistaPrint and Shutterfly, or even designed on your home computer and printed on label paper. A return address stamp is another option, and you can even have one custom-designed by a calligrapher so that it matches the calligraphy of your guest addresses. Finally, you can have your envelopes ordered with your return address pre-printed on them, saving you time sticking or stamping, but reducing flexibility if you need more envelopes.
There are some style considerations to keep in mind when it comes to your return address labels. Traditionally, whoever is hosting the wedding is noted as the return address, so this may be the couple themselves or a parent. You could include first names only, first and last names, last names plus the word 'wedding', or no names at all. If you are including last names, it is considered a no-no to combine them, as you are not yet married.
Finally, if you are using double envelopes (inner and outer) for your invitations, the return address only goes on the back flap of the outermost envelope. There is no need for a return address on the inner envelope.
Guide to Inviting Guests to a Themed Wedding
You may want to see also
The return address is traditionally the host's address
Wedding invitations are a chance to showcase your style and personality, but there are a few traditions and guidelines to keep in mind when it comes to the return address. The return address is traditionally the host's address, and there are a few reasons why this is important.
Firstly, it tells your guests where to send their RSVPs and gifts. If a guest is unable to attend or prefers to send a gift in advance, they will use the return address on the back flap of the invitation envelope. Similarly, when guests send back their RSVP cards, they will use the address on the response envelopes.
Traditionally, the hosts of the wedding will collect both the gifts and RSVPs for the couple. This means that if you use the couple's address as the return address, the bride's parents (who usually host and pay for the wedding) will need to forward any gifts and RSVPs to the couple, creating an extra step. Using the hosts' address as the return address ensures that gifts and responses are sent directly to the correct place.
When it comes to the format of the return address, there are a few options to consider. Traditionally, only the physical address is listed on the back flap of the invitation envelope, with no names. However, it is becoming more common to include names, especially on the response envelopes. If you do include names, the format can vary. For a formal wedding, you might use "Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson" followed by the address. For a more modern approach, you could use "Kari and Bradley" or "The Johnson-Shaw Wedding" with the address.
There are also a few different ways to get the return address onto the envelope. You could use return address labels, which are simple and affordable but may look inconsistent with the guest address. Another option is to have the return address pre-printed on the envelope, which saves time but may be more costly. A return address stamp is similar to labels and can be a great way to ensure a cohesive style with the guest address. For the most elegant option, consider having a calligrapher write the return address. This is the most expensive choice but ensures a perfect match in writing style and ink colour.
Incorporate City Attractions in Your Wedding Invites: A Guide
You may want to see also
You can buy pre-made return address labels online
Wedding planning can be a stressful time, so it's good to know that you can buy pre-made return address labels online. This is a great way to save time and avoid the hand cramps that come with handwriting each label. You can find a range of options available from online retailers and stationery stores. Etsy, for example, is a treasure trove of unique stationery accessories created by independent artisans.
When buying pre-made return address labels, you'll first need to decide whether you want just the return address labels or if you also want guest address labels. If you opt for both, you can choose whether you want them to be in the same font and design style or if you'd prefer to select two coordinating designs.
Ordering pre-made return address labels is simple. Just write out your names and address, and you're good to go. You'll have a range of style options to choose from, and you can even order labels without a wedding theme to use on future correspondence or thank-you notes.
If you're looking for something a little more special, you can opt for a clear label with gold foil text or a design featuring a sprig of greenery. You can also find labels in different shapes, such as a sleek modern design that wraps around the envelope's edge.
In addition to Etsy, you can explore other online retailers like VistaPrint, Shutterfly, Current Catalog, and Colorful Images for pre-made return address labels. These sites offer customizable options, various fonts, colours, graphics, and even foil accents.
So, if you're looking to save time and add a touch of elegance to your wedding invitations, consider purchasing pre-made return address labels online. It's a convenient and hassle-free option that will give your envelopes a polished look.
Colleague Conundrum: Inviting Coworkers to Your Brother's Wedding
You may want to see also
Return address labels can be printed at home
You can also create return address labels in Microsoft Word using a template. Open a new document and type 'return address label' in the 'Search for online templates' box. Select the template you want and click 'Create'. Type your return address into the first label and Word will automatically update the rest of the labels. Print a test sheet and, if you're happy with it, load your label sheets into your printer and print the final version.
If you're creating wedding invitations, you can buy blank address labels in your chosen shape, size, and material. You can then print these at home using the method described above. Wedding invitation address labels are stickers that display names and addresses, making it easier to mail your wedding invitations. You can buy these labels from online retailers and stationery stores, such as Etsy.
Using '&' in Wedding Invites: Addressing Etiquette and Examples
You may want to see also
Return address labels are more affordable than stamps
Wedding planning can be overwhelming, but addressing your invitations doesn't have to be. Return address labels are a simple, affordable solution for couples who don't want to handwrite their return address on every envelope.
Return address labels are stickers that display your name and address and are placed on the back flap of the invitation envelope. They are a convenient alternative to handwriting, especially if you have large number of invitations to send out. With labels, you can ensure that your envelopes are legible and aesthetically pleasing, without having to worry about hand cramps or smudges.
One of the benefits of return address labels is their affordability. Labels are generally more affordable than stamps, especially if you are considering a custom return address stamp. Custom stamps can be designed with your name and address, but they often come at a higher cost and require additional time for application. Labels, on the other hand, can be printed at home or ordered from online retailers, offering a cost-effective solution for couples on a budget.
In addition to cost savings, return address labels provide flexibility in terms of style and design. You can easily find labels that match your wedding aesthetic, whether you're going for a minimalist, rustic, or elegant look. Labels can be printed on clear or coloured backgrounds, with a variety of font options to choose from. This allows you to maintain a cohesive style throughout your invitation suite.
Return address labels are also a great option if you want to include your return address on both the invitation and response envelopes. This ensures that any undeliverable invitations or gifts are sent to the correct address. By ordering extra labels, you can easily accommodate any last-minute additions to your guest list without worrying about the extra cost of custom stamps.
Overall, return address labels offer a simple, affordable, and stylish solution for your wedding invitation needs. They eliminate the hassle of handwriting, provide flexibility in design, and ensure that your invitations reach their intended recipients. So, if you're looking for a cost-effective way to add a personal touch to your invitations, return address labels are definitely the way to go.
Texting Wedding Invites: Is It Ever Okay?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The return address should go on the back flap of the envelope. This is the preferred placement for formal events like weddings.
No, you can also handwrite the return address, use a custom stamp, or have it pre-printed on the envelope.
Traditionally, the return address includes the name(s) and address of the hosts of the wedding. However, you can also just include the address with no names, or first names only.
You can buy return address labels online from sites like Etsy, VistaPrint, and Shutterfly, or design and print them yourself at home.