Highlights
- When addressing wedding invitations to married couples, there are a few key guidelines to follow to ensure proper etiquette and a seamless guest experience.
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name] and [Wife’s Last Name].
- If you’re unsure how to address a particular couple, consult with a wedding etiquette expert or a close friend or family member.
When addressing wedding invitations to married couples, there are a few key guidelines to follow to ensure proper etiquette and a seamless guest experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this delicate aspect of wedding planning:
1. Addressing the Envelope
Option 1: Formal Addressing
For a formal approach, address the envelope as follows:
- Mr. and Mrs. [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: John and Mary Smith
Option 2: Less Formal Addressing
For a more casual approach, you can address the envelope as follows:
- [Husband’s First Name] & [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: John & Mary Smith
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name]
Example: John and Mary
2. Including Titles and Degrees
If either partner has a professional title or degree, it’s appropriate to include it in the address.
- Mr. and Mrs. [Husband’s Last Name], MD
Example: Mr. and Mrs. John Smith, MD
- Dr. [Husband’s First Name] and Dr. [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: Dr. John Smith and Dr. Mary Smith
3. Addressing Same-Sex Couples
For same-sex couples, follow the same guidelines as for heterosexual couples. Use the titles and names that each partner prefers.
- Mr. [Husband’s First Name] and Mr. [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: Mr. John Smith and Mr. Tom Brown
- Ms. [Wife’s First Name] and Ms. [Wife’s Last Name]
Example: Ms. Mary Johnson and Ms. Sarah Williams
4. Addressing Couples with Different Last Names
If the couple has different last names, you can address the envelope in one of two ways:
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name] and [Wife’s Last Name]
Example: John and Mary Smith and Williams
- [Husband’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Wife’s Last Name]
Example: John Smith and Mary Williams
5. Addressing Couples with Children
If the couple has children, you can include their names on the invitation.
- Mr. and Mrs. [Husband’s Last Name] and Family
Example: Mr. and Mrs. John Smith and Family
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name] and Children
Example: John and Mary Smith and Children
6. Addressing Couples Who Are Not Married
If the couple is not married but living together, you can address the envelope in one of two ways:
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: John and Mary Smith
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name]
Example: John and Mary
7. Addressing Divorced or Remarried Couples
If the couple is divorced or remarried, use the following guidelines:
- For divorced couples: Address each individual separately using their preferred names and titles.
- For remarried couples: Address the couple using the husband’s name and title, followed by the wife’s name.
Beyond the Envelope: Addressing Married Couples on the Invitation
Inside the invitation, address the couple formally using their titles and last names.
- Mr. and Mrs. [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: John and Mary Smith
RSVPs and Place Cards
For RSVPs and place cards, follow the same guidelines as for addressing the envelope. Ensure consistency throughout the wedding stationery to maintain a cohesive and professional appearance.
Etiquette Tips for Addressing Wedding Invitations to Married Couples
- Use formal titles and names whenever possible.
- Be consistent with your addressing style throughout all wedding stationery.
- If you’re unsure how to address a particular couple, consult with a wedding etiquette expert or a close friend or family member.
- Always proofread your invitations carefully before sending them out.
What You Need to Know
1. How do I address a married couple with different last names?
You can address the envelope in one of two ways:
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name] and [Wife’s Last Name]
Example: John and Mary Smith and Williams
- [Husband’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Wife’s Last Name]
Example: John Smith and Mary Williams
2. How do I address a couple who is not married but living together?
You can address the envelope in one of two ways:
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name] [Husband’s Last Name]
Example: John and Mary Smith
- [Husband’s First Name] and [Wife’s First Name]
Example: John and Mary
3. How do I address a divorced or remarried couple?
- For divorced couples: Address each individual separately using their preferred names and titles.
- For remarried couples: Address the couple using the husband’s name and title, followed by the wife’s name.
