Short answer
Address the outer envelope to both parents by their full names and titles, for example Mr and Mrs David Brown, or Dr Sarah Brown and Mr John Brown. If one parent is deceased, address the invitation to the living parent only, or to the surviving parent and their partner if they have one.
When both parents are married, the traditional style is Mr and Mrs followed by the husband's full name, but many couples now prefer to use both first names, such as Mr David Brown and Mrs Sarah Brown. If the parents have different surnames, write each name on its own line. If one parent has a professional title, like doctor or professor, use that title instead of Mr or Mrs. For divorced parents, send a separate invitation to each parent unless they live together. If they live together but are not married, use both names on one line. If a parent has remarried, use their current married name. If you are not sure of a parent's preferred title or surname, it is fine to ask a sibling or close friend. The inner envelope can be more informal, using first names only, for example David and Sarah. The key is to be consistent and respectful. If you are inviting parents with adult children who live at home, give each adult their own invitation so they feel properly included.
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