What is the correct way to address wedding invitations?

Short answer

The correct way is to write each guest's full name and address clearly on the outer envelope, using titles and surnames for formal invitations, or first names for informal ones. For a couple, put both names on one line.

For formal invitations, address the outer envelope with titles and full names, for example "Mr. James Brown and Mrs. Sarah Brown" or "Dr. Emily White and Mr. Tom White". For an unmarried couple, write both names on separate lines, with the person you know better first. For a family with children, write the parents' names on the first line and the children's names on the second line, or use "The Brown Family" if the children are young.

For informal invitations, you can use first names only, such as "James and Sarah" or "The Browns". If you are using inner and outer envelopes, the inner envelope can be more informal, with just first names or titles and surnames. The outer envelope should always have the full postal address.

For guests with special requirements, such as a doctor, a member of the clergy, or someone with a title, use their correct form of address. If you are unsure, check with them or their family. Always write the address in full, including the postcode, and make sure the names are spelled correctly. If you are using a wedding website, include the web address on a separate card, not on the envelope.