How to Address Wedding Invitation Envelopes
Modern Etiquette & Timeless Tradition
Updated for 2025
Calligraphy by Caitlin Jane
Addressing wedding invitation envelopes is one of the most common etiquette questions I receive from couples. Whether you're printing addresses or hiring a calligrapher to turn your envelopes into works of art, the same etiquette rules generally apply. However, traditions have evolved, and today’s couples often blend classic etiquette with more modern, inclusive approaches.
Ultimately, the goal is to be a thoughtful and gracious host, ensuring that your guests feel welcomed and included when they receive your invitation. Below, I’ll walk you through the most common envelope-addressing questions and offer both traditional and contemporary options to suit your wedding style.
How to Address a Wedding Envelope with a Plus-One
Traditional:
If you know the guest’s name, include it to create a personal and welcoming touch.
Mr. James Carter and Ms. Emily Brown
Dr. Matthew Smith and Guest (if the guest’s name is unknown)
Modern Alternative:
Instead of using “and Guest,” some couples prefer to ask invitees for their guest’s name in advance and address them personally.
How to Address a Wedding Invitation to a Family
Traditional:
For a single envelope:
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Davis
Emily, Noah, and Sophia Davis (on the next line)
For double envelopes (more formal):
Outer Envelope: Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Davis
Inner Envelope: Jonathan, Elizabeth, Emily, Noah, and Sophia
If you're unsure of children's names, you may use:
Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Davis and Family
Modern Alternative:
If using a more contemporary approach, you may opt for:
Jonathan and Elizabeth Davis
Emily, Noah, and Sophia Davis
How to Address a Wedding Invitation to an Engaged Couple
Traditional:
If they will share the same last name after marriage:
The Future Mr. and Mrs. Michael Carter
If they are keeping their individual names:
Ms. Olivia Scott
Mr. Michael Carter
Modern Alternative:
To acknowledge their upcoming wedding while respecting individual names:
The Soon-to-Be-Married Olivia Scott and Michael Carter
How to Address a Wedding Invitation to Two Doctors
Traditional:
If they have different last names: Dr. Katherine Jones and Dr. William Smith
If they share a last name: The Doctors Smith
Modern Alternative:
Some couples prefer: Dr. Katherine and Dr. William Smith
How to Address a Wedding Invitation to an Unmarried Couple
Traditional:
The guest you are closest to should be listed first:
Ms. Emily Taylor
Mr. Ryan Cooper
Modern Alternative:
Some couples list names alphabetically, regardless of gender or familiarity:
Emily Taylor and Ryan Cooper
How to Address a Wedding Invitation to a Same-Sex Couple
Traditional:
For married couples sharing a last name:
Mr. James and Mr. Andrew Parker
For married couples keeping separate last names:
Mr. James Parker and Mr. Andrew Smith
For unmarried couples:
Mr. James Parker
Mr. Andrew Smith
Modern Alternative:
Some prefer a single line, similar to opposite-gender couples:
James Parker and Andrew Smith
How to Address a Wedding Invitation to a Non-Binary Guest
Traditional (if applicable):
If the guest uses they/them pronouns and a gender-neutral title, use “Mx.”
Mx. Jordan Reynolds
If they prefer no title:
Jordan Reynolds
Modern Alternative:
If unsure of a guest’s preference, it’s best to ask them directly or omit titles altogether to ensure they feel respected and included.
The Evolving Tradition of Addressing Married Couples
In the past, the standard way to address a married couple was “Mr. and Mrs. John Smith.” While this remains a formal option, many couples today prefer to include both of their first names, such as:
Mr. John and Mrs. Sarah Smith (if sharing the same last name)
Mrs. Sarah Johnson and Mr. John Smith (if the wife is keeping her maiden name)
Ms. Sarah Johnson and Mr. John Smith (if the wife prefers Ms., which is increasingly common for professional and social use)
What’s the Difference Between “Mrs.” and “Ms.” for Married Women?
Mrs. is traditionally used for a married woman who takes her spouse’s last name, but it can also be used for a woman who keeps her maiden name.
Ms. is an appropriate and neutral title for any woman, regardless of marital status. Many women choose it for professional or personal reasons.
Bottom Line: It’s best to use the title the recipient prefers. When in doubt, Ms. is a safe and respectful option.
Most Important: Be a Thoughtful Host
While traditional etiquette provides a foundation, the most important thing is to make your guests feel welcomed and included. Spelling names correctly, using personal touches, and choosing an addressing style that aligns with your wedding’s formality will always be appreciated.
How to Address Wedding Invitation Envelopes: Addressing Etiquette
When writing addresses for your wedding invitations, following traditional etiquette ensures a polished and elegant presentation. Here are the key guidelines to keep in mind:
Spell out all words in an address rather than using abbreviations. This includes street names, state names, and directional indicators.
123 Oakwood Avenue (not “123 Oakwood Ave.”)
135 West Maple Lane (not “135 W. Maple Ln.”)
Apartment Two (not “Apt. 2”)
Suite One Hundred (not “Ste. 100”)
Spell out numbers ten and under, but use numerals for 11 and above.
Nine Elm Street (not “9 Elm St.”)
21 West Chestnut Drive (not “Twenty-One West Chestnut Drive”)
Write out the full state name rather than using postal abbreviations.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (not “Philadelphia, PA”)
Los Angeles, California (not “Los Angeles, CA”)
For international addresses, research proper formatting.
Every country has different mailing address conventions. For example, in the United Kingdom, the postal code is written before the city, whereas in France, the postal code comes before the country name. Before mailing international invitations, look up the correct formatting for that specific country to ensure proper delivery.
By following these guidelines, your invitations will reflect a refined, thoughtful approach that aligns with formal wedding etiquette.
For further reading on wedding etiquette, check out.
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