How to Address Wedding Envelopes

Addressing wedding envelopes carries a lot of significance. After all, your envelopes are the first impression of your big day! Whether your wedding is formal, casual, or somewhere in between, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know on how to address your wedding envelopes with confidence and style.

Traditional Formal Addressing

If your wedding leans toward the traditional side, you’ll want your envelopes to reflect that. Here’s how to address them properly:

• Married Couple:
  Outer Envelope:
  Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
  Inner Envelope:
  Mr. and Mrs. Smith
• Unmarried Couple Living Together:
  Outer Envelope:
  Mr. John Smith and Miss Emily Jones
  Inner Envelope:
  Mr. Smith and Miss Jones
• Single Guest with a Plus-One:
  Outer Envelope:
  Miss Emily Jones
  Inner Envelope:
  Miss Jones and Guest

Etiquette Note: Use full names and avoid abbreviations on formal invitations. Titles like “Dr.” or “Judge” should also be included when applicable.

Modern and Casual Addressing

For couples who prefer a more laid-back tone, modern addressing can feel more personal and less rigid. Here’s how to do it:

• Married Couple:
  John and Sarah Smith
• Unmarried Couple Living Together:
  Emily Jones and John Smith
• Single Guest with a Plus-One:
  Emily Jones + Guest

Fun Tip: If your guest list is full of close friends, consider playful addressing, like “The Party-Ready Emily Jones” or “John Smith and His Dance Partner.”

Addressing Families

If you’re inviting families with children, here’s how to address their invitations:

• Formal:
  Outer Envelope:
  Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
  Inner Envelope:
  Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Sarah, and James
• Casual:
  The Smith Family (on one line)

Pro Tip: If you’re not including children, omit their names and specify on your RSVP or wedding website that the event is adults-only.

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

• What if I don’t know someone’s preferred title?
  When in doubt, stick with their full name or ask them directly. It’s better to be accurate than to guess.
• Should I handwrite or print addresses?
  This is completely up to you!

Traditional vs. Modern: Which is Right for You?

Your addressing style should match the vibe of your wedding. Hosting a black-tie affair? Go traditional. Planning a casual beach wedding? Feel free to keep it relaxed. The key is consistency—your addressing style should align with the tone of your invitations and event.

Addressing your wedding envelopes is an opportunity to set the stage for your celebration. Whether you stick to tradition or embrace a modern flair, make it your own. At Artfully Overjoyed, we’re here to help with all your stationery needs—from invitation design to envelope addressing services. We offer both handwritten calligraphy and digitally printed addressing to ensure your addressing matches the vibe of your invitations. For more information on our addressing services, contact us here.