How to Address Save the Date Envelopes: A Comprehensive Guide
Sending out save the date cards is an exciting step in the wedding planning process. These cards inform your guests about your upcoming nuptials and allow them to mark their calendars well in advance. However, addressing the envelopes for save the date cards can be a bit tricky. To ensure that your envelopes are addressed properly and to avoid any confusion, here is a comprehensive guide on how to address save the date envelopes.
1. Start with the formal names: Begin the address with the formal names of the recipients. Use their full names, including titles like Mr., Mrs., or Miss, to maintain a formal tone.
2. Address married couples: For couples who are married, address the envelope as “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.” If the wife has kept her maiden name, you can address it as “Mr. John Smith and Ms. Jane Johnson.”
3. Address unmarried couples: For couples who are not married but are living together, address the envelope as “Mr. John Smith and Ms. Jane Johnson.” You can also choose to write both names on separate lines.
4. Address families: If you are inviting an entire family, address the envelope as “The Smith Family.” Alternatively, you can address it to each family member individually, such as “Mr. John Smith, Mrs. Jane Smith, and Miss Emily Smith.”
5. Address children: If you are inviting children, include their names on a separate line below their parents’ names. For example, “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith” on the first line, and “Emily Smith” on the second line.
6. Address single guests: For single guests, address the envelope using their full name, such as “Ms. Jane Johnson.”
7. Use appropriate titles: If your guest holds a professional title, make sure to include it in the address. For instance, “Dr. Emily Smith” or “Professor John Smith.”
8. Use proper abbreviations: When addressing the envelope, use the appropriate abbreviations for titles like Mr., Mrs., Ms., Dr., and Prof. Avoid using informal abbreviations or nicknames.
9. Use formal handwriting: Address the envelopes in a neat and legible handwriting. If you are unsure about your handwriting, consider printing the addresses using a calligraphy font.
10. Use the correct address format: Write the recipient’s address on the center of the envelope. Include the street address, apartment number (if applicable), city, state, and ZIP code. Use the full name of the city and state and avoid using abbreviations.
11. Double-check the addresses: Before sending out the save the date cards, double-check the addresses to ensure accuracy. Mistakes in the addresses can lead to cards being undelivered or returned.
12. Add a return address: Include your return address on the back flap of the envelope. This ensures that the card can be returned to you if it cannot be delivered.
13. Consider using labels: If you have a large number of save the date cards to address, you can use address labels. Ensure that the labels are printed clearly and are centered on the envelope.
Common Questions:
1. Can I use abbreviations for street types like “Ave” or “St”?
Yes, you can use abbreviations for street types as long as they are commonly recognized and do not cause confusion.
2. Should I include middle names in the addresses?
Including middle names is not necessary unless you want to maintain a formal tone or if the person being addressed commonly uses their middle name.
3. How should I address a married couple with different last names?
Address the envelope as “Mr. John Smith and Ms. Jane Johnson” to acknowledge both individuals.
4. What if I don’t know the full names of my guests?
If you are unsure about the full names of your guests, reach out to them and politely ask for the details.
5. Should I use titles for unmarried guests?
Using titles like Mr., Mrs., or Ms. is optional for unmarried guests. Use them if you think it adds a formal touch.
6. Can I use calligraphy for addressing envelopes?
Calligraphy can add an elegant touch to your envelopes. If you are skilled in calligraphy, go ahead and use it. Otherwise, consider printing the addresses using a calligraphy font.
7. Should I use a separate envelope for each save the date card?
Yes, it is recommended to use a separate envelope for each save the date card to avoid confusion and ensure that each guest receives their own invitation.
8. Can I use colorful envelopes?
While colorful envelopes can add a fun element to your save the date cards, make sure that the address is still easily readable. Use a dark, contrasting ink color for the addresses.
9. Should I include my guest’s title if they have a professional designation?
Yes, it is respectful to include their professional title if they have one, such as Dr., Professor, or Reverend.
10. Is it necessary to include the apartment number in the address?
Including the apartment number is crucial for delivering the card accurately, especially in buildings with multiple units.
11. Should I include my return address on the front of the envelope?
No, the return address should be placed on the back flap of the envelope to maintain a clean and organized appearance.
12. Can I use printed address labels?
Yes, using printed address labels is a convenient option, especially if you have a large number of save the date cards to address. Ensure that the labels are printed clearly and centered on the envelope.
13. How early should I send out save the date cards?
Save the date cards should be sent out six to eight months before your wedding to give your guests enough time to plan and mark their calendars.
Addressing save the date envelopes may seem like a small detail, but it is an important part of wedding etiquette. By following these guidelines and addressing the envelopes correctly, you can ensure that your guests receive their save the date cards with ease and excitement.