Wedding Invitation 
Tips, Tricks and Etiquette

By Marttie Pastore of

Many etiquette rules have remained steadfast through the years and still apply. However, some of the old rules of etiquette have become somewhat more lenient. It’s a good idea to use publications such as "Crane's Wedding Blue Book" as a general etiquette guide. With a little research, it is entirely possible to remain within the etiquette guidelines while still letting your own personal style come through.

Here are just a few tips we hope you find helpful when planning your envelope addressing and invitation wording:

The following words are only used when the ceremony takes place in a church or synagogue. It is a sign of respect for the house of worship.

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

The following words are used when your ceremony is not held in a church or synagogue

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

Traditional Invitations – There is an outer envelope and an inner envelope. The outer envelope is addressed:

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

1234 Maple Street

Anywhere, New Jersey 08000

The Inner envelope is simply addressed:

Mr. and Mrs. Smith

If someone is invited to bring a guest, the words "And Guest" appear only on the inner envelope. If Mr. and Mrs. Smith are invited to bring their children, the names of the children go only on the inner envelope.

• Green Invitations – Many of today’s invitations are called "Green Invitations" and come without an inner envelope. The names of the guest – or children – may be listed on the outer envelope.
  
  

• Always Always – Make sure you spell everything out when addressing your invitations. The only acceptable abbreviations are Mr., Mrs., Ms., Jr., Sr. and Dr. Spell out street numbers between one and ten. When in doubt, spell it out.
  
  

• Never Never – When addressing your invitations, labels are never used. Your invitation is the first impression your guests will have of this grand event. Remember, this is your wedding and not a mass mailing!
  
  

• Your Cleric – The Rabbi, Priest or Clergyman who performs your ceremony is often "the forgotten one". It is still customary to include your cleric on your invitation list.
  
  

• Mailing – Invitations should be mailed six to eight weeks prior to the wedding date. If you are being married in the summer or on a Holiday, it’s a good idea to use the full eight weeks.
  
  

• Post Office – Make sure you take a complete invitation to the post office to be weighed so you will know the exact postage you will need.
  
  

• Hand Cancel – Ask your local post office to "Hand Cancel" your invitations. This means they have to go through one less piece of postal equipment and lessen the risk of torn envelopes.
  
  

• Plan Ahead – Remember, this is supposed to be one of the best times of your life. If you start the planning early and create a timeline, you will be able to eliminate an enormous amount of stress. Stick to your timeline so you can relax and enjoy!
  

For more information on invitations, invitation addressing or any of their other services, including a DIY service, visit the First Impressions page on this site and their website: www.firstimpressionscalligraphy.com.