How to Address Your Wedding Invitations Elegantly + Correctly
Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse guests get of your big day. You’ve chosen stunning paper, luxe hot foil, and a design that feels so you — so don’t let the envelope trip you up. Addressing your invitations elegantly (and correctly) sets the tone before anyone even opens the flap.
Here’s everything you need to know about addressing your wedding invitations with confidence.
Formal vs. Modern Etiquette
Traditionally, wedding invitations followed strict etiquette: full names, titles, and no shortcuts. Today? Couples are mixing formality with modern flair, depending on the vibe of their wedding.
Formal: “Mr. and Mrs. James Smith”
Modern: “James and Taylor Smith”
Pro tip: Match your addressing style to your event. Black-tie soirée? Lean formal. Backyard celebration? Modern works beautifully.
Titles & Honorifics
Yes, titles can get tricky — but they also add elegance when used correctly.
Married couples:
Formal: “Dr. and Mrs. Michael Chen”
Modern: “Michael and Sarah Chen”
Same-sex couples:
Formal: “Ms. Olivia Brooks and Ms. Harper Lee”
Modern: “Olivia Brooks & Harper Lee”
Families with children:
Formal: “Mr. and Mrs. David Ramirez and Family”
Modern: “The Ramirez Family”
When in doubt, choose what feels respectful and aligned with your guests’ preferences.
Inner vs. Outer Envelopes
Double envelopes are timeless — but not required.
Outer envelope: Full formal names and addresses (to get the invitation safely to their door).
Inner envelope: First names only, or more relaxed phrasing (the warm welcome inside).
If you’re skipping inner envelopes, just keep your outer one elegant and intentional.
Addressing by Hand vs. Printing
Handwritten calligraphy is classic and luxurious, while printed addressing (especially with foil or letterpress) keeps everything polished and consistent.
Hot tip: If you’re already investing in foil invitations, foil-embellished envelopes are the ultimate statement. They shine in the mailbox — literally.
The Finishing Touches
Small details go a long way in making your addressing feel cohesive:
Use matching ink or foil colors for a seamless look.
Always spell out street names, states, and numbers (e.g., “Avenue” not “Ave.”).
Triple-check spellings — it’s worth the pause.
Wrapping It Up
Your wedding invitations are more than details on paper — they’re an introduction to your celebration. Addressing them elegantly and correctly shows thoughtfulness and care, before your guests even see what’s inside.
And once those envelopes are opened? That’s where the magic really happens. My semi-custom hot foil suites are designed to make the very best first impression — timeless, tactile, and unforgettable. Take a look at the collections here.
