How to Address Those Wedding Invitations

It doesn’t seem like a big deal when you first think about ordering and addressing invitations, but the way that you label this stationary can make all the difference when the big day arrives.  First of all, labeling the invitations incorrectly can cause unintended insult for some.  Secondly, the wrong form of address could mean that you wind up entertaining more guests than planned.  So, be sure to ask yourself the following questions.

Do you want the whole family to attend?

Yes? Then, simply label the envelope to address the family as a whole (i.e. The Smith Family)

No? List individual names, and if you don’t plan to have kids in attendance, include that information on the invitation as well.  (i.e. Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Ms. Ashley Smith)

Is this person divorced?

            Yes, but she still uses her married name? Address her as ‘Mrs.’ Even though she is now divorced, if she still uses the last name, then it is appropriate to do so.  (i.e. ‘Mrs. Ashley Brown’)

Yes, she uses her maiden name?  If she has changed her name since being divorced, then use ‘Ms.’ Instead of ‘Mrs.’ (i.e. ‘Ms. Ashley Smith’)

Is this an unmarried couple?

            Yes, but they share the same residence? Address one invitation to both individuals, including both names (i.e. ‘Mr. Christopher Brown and Ms. Ashley Smith)

            Yes, and they live separately? Send an separate invitation to both individuals.

Does one of the invitees have a title?

            Yes, the man has the title? Address the invitation to both individuals, beginning with the title.  (i.e. ‘Dr. Christopher and Mrs. Ashley Brown’ or ‘Dr. Christopher Brown and Ms. Ashley Smith’)

            Yes, the woman has the title? Address the invitation to both individuals, beginning with the title.  (i.e ‘Dr. Ashley and Mr. Christopher Brown’ or ‘Dr. Ashley Smith and Mr. Christopher Brown)