How to Properly Include a Return Address on Wedding Invitations

While it's typically easy for guests to figure out who mailed them a wedding invitation, there are certain elements that immediately help people decipher who sent their special delivery—like, for example, a return address. According to Lisa Lyons, an event planner and etiquette advisor, a return address is also able to ensure “all aspects of the invitation process are well-managed and executed," and is "considered a standard practice" in the wedding space.

Simply put, a return address on your wedding invitation is an essential part of your invite suite. It allows for guests to conveniently RSVP to your celebration and protects your invite from any mailing mishaps. “By having a return address, any undelivered invitations can be returned to the sender, allowing [couples] to take necessary action and ensure that all guests receive their invitation promptly,” Lyons notes. Not to mention, this simple detail provides a location for where gifts should be mailed.

If you’re planning to organize your own invites, we’ve put together a simple guide on how to properly include a return address. Following Lyons's expertise, here's everything you need to know.

The Proper Location for a Return Address

Typically, the preferred location for a return address is on the back flap of the envelope. “Placing the return address on the back flap allows it to be easily visible and accessible for the recipient and postal service,” explains Lyons. “It also maintains a clean and uncluttered look on the front of the envelope, where the recipient's address is typically written.” If your invitation package will include an inner envelope, you can also write the return address on the back of this secondary piece.

How to Format a Return Address

Now that you know where to place the return address, here are some key guidelines on how to format this essential detail.

Select a font that aligns with your wedding's aesthetic.

Lyons notes that it’s “important to consider the overall design and formality of the invitation when choosing the font, size, and style" of your text. In general, she suggests using handwritten calligraphy, or a printer that mimics calligraphy fonts, when addressing your envelopes. “If either of those options is not possible, clear and legible handwriting, or printed labels for a more professional appearance, can suffice,” she explains, while also noting that couples should avoid fancy or overly decorative fonts.

Choose an address that works best for you.

Once you've determined your aesthetic, decide which location you'd like to use for your return address. If you’re unsure about this part, it’s best to default to those who are hosting the wedding. “Traditionally, the return address on wedding invitations includes the names of the hosts or the individuals sending the invitations,” explains Lyons. “For example, if the parents of the bride are hosting the wedding, their names should be included in the return address. If the couple is hosting their own wedding, their names can be used instead.” You can also use a wedding planner’s address if they are overseeing the invitation process and managing RSVPs.  

Properly list out all the details.

Lyons explains that couples should format their return address with the names on the first line, followed by the full street address on the second line, and the city, state, and zip code on the third line.

Sample Return Address:

Mr. and Mrs. John Smith

123 Park Avenue

Winter Park, Florida 10001

When writing out the return address, you’ll also want to consider the spacing of each line. “Make sure to use proper spacing and alignment for a clean and organized look,” suggests the planner. “Each line should be aligned with the left margin.” Lastly, avoid using any abbreviations: Lyons recommends spelling out everyone's full name, the street name, the city, and the state. “Ensure that the return address on the outer envelope matches the address printed on the RSVP envelope if you are including separate RSVP envelopes,” she adds. “This helps to maintain consistency and avoids any confusion for guests.”