Nowadays everyone is so technologically dependent that I often wonder if people know the correct etiquette of writing out and addressing invitations.
Here are a few quick tips on how to properly write out an invitation:
When addressing an envelope to a married couple it should be written out as:
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Pitt
The husband's name should be his full name, do not shorten the name i.e. “Brad” The full name should be written out as “Bradley” even if you call him “Brad” for short...remember it is formal! When you have an inner envelope that is when it is appropriate to call them by a nickname. Although I kinda hate this rule, traditionally, the woman's name is not used on the outer envelope.
When you are addressing to a family; with children under the age of 18 it should be written as:
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Pitt and Family
**If listing children's names make sure to list them in age order! It is important to know that this is only for children 18 and under!
When you are addressing to a family; children above the age of 18 at same household:
ADDRESS A SEPARATE ENVELOPE TO THEM
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Pitt (1 invitation)
Ms. (or Miss.) Cordially Coco (2nd invitation)
**Although someone might still be living at the same household that you are mailing to, proper etiquette says to have a separate invitation for them if they are considered to be an adult (aka 18 years or older.)
Addressing to someone with a title, i.e Doctor, list the person with the most important title first:
Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell and Mr. Nobody
*she was never married but you get the gist*
When addressing a widow you have the choice to use her late husband's name
Mrs. John Kennedy or Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy
**however please note you use MRS not Mr. for a widow!
When addressing for a divorced woman:
Use Ms. or Miss and her maiden name
**if you don't know the status use the married name unless told otherwise, if you are comfortable, ask what they'd rather be addressed as a courtesy**
When addressing to a single woman/might not know the marital status
Ms. Cordially Coco
Hope these tips are helpful! Use these tips when addressing for weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, anniversary parties, etc!
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