I get many questions regarding envelope addressing when creating invitations for my clients. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind when you are addressing your wedding envelopes.
Tip #1: Salutations
Using the correct salutations is important when addressing a formal invitation suite.
Single Person: Mr. John Jones; or
Mr. John Jones
and Guest
To a Married Couple: Mr. and Mrs. John Jones
To a Married Couple Who Uses Different Last Names, or a same sex couple: Mr. John Jones and Mrs. Jane Smith
To an Unmarried Couple Living Together: Each name would be on it's own line
Mr. John Jones
Ms. Jane Smith
Families: Everyone over the age of 18 should receive their own invitation.
Mr. and Mrs. John Jones
and Family
or
Mr. and Mrs. John Jones
Bryan, Keira, and Natalie
or (more formal)
Mr. and Mrs. John Jones
Mr. Bryan, Miss Keira, and Miss Natalie
Doctors: Dr. Anne Smith and Mr. John Jones; Doctors Anne and Peter Underwood (the doctor is always listed first)
Distinguished Titles: The Honorable Mary Thomas and Lieutenant Jonathan Anderson, U.S. Navy or Captains John and Jane Thomas, U.S. Navy
Tip #2: All street names, cities, states and countries should be spelled out.
Example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Jones
1234 Street Road
Apartment 4B
New York, New York 56789
Tip #3: Inner/Outer Envelope Combination
For more formal ceremonies, to help protect the invitation suite and the envelope an outer envelope is used. This envelope is slightly larger than the invitation envelope, so everything fits neatly inside. The outer envelope is where the addressing will be; you can opt to keep the invitation envelope blank, or personalize it with names.
Also, I am happy to assist with any wording as you complete your template! You may view my wedding invitation services here.