Outer Envelopes

Outer envelopes should be addressed using full names and formal titles.  Do not abbreviate or use symbols.  Spell out all words, including the street name and state.  Use numerals only when writing house numbers and zip codes.

Wedding invitations should be mailed out six to eight weeks prior to the event.  If you have a large number of out of town guests, I suggest eight weeks to give your guests the courtesy of making  reservations and travel arrangements. 

Inner Envelopes

Inner envelopes inform your guests exactly who is invited to the occasion.  It is more formal to use the title and last name such as “Mr. and Mrs. Johnson”.  However, it is ok to be less formal using only first names such as “John and Sue” or “Aunt Melissa”. 

All family members invited should be included on the inner envelope.  If children are invited their names are to be listed below the parent’s in order of age.  Children over the age of 18 should receive a personal invitation. 

If an invitation to a single guest extends to an unknown escort, address the inner envelope with your friend’s name followed by “and guest”.