We know that it can be difficult to navigate the world of social mailing etiquette. If you need assistance, just contact us and we will be happy to recommend an appropriate method of address!
Below, we have listed a few helpful tips in preparing to mail invitations for your event.
Receiving:
In order to be a great host, you should also know how to be a great guest! When receiving an invitation in the mail it is polite to respond to it immediately. However, in this busy world and trying to coordinate schedules, it is best reply within a week of receiving an invitation. It is appropriate to respond in the manner indicated on the invitation, whether it is phone, mail or e-mail; if nothing is indicated then responding in the same manner the invitation was delivered will suffice. If you cannot attend, a brief reason for your absence is courteous, but not necessary.
Addressing:
Clearly address your invitations to those invited to attend to avoid confusion or unwanted guests and awkward questions.
Avoid using abbreviations and use full titles. This applies to middle initials, City, State and street identifiers such as "Drive", "Boulevard" and "Avenue".
The outer envelope consists of a gummed flap and return address. The inner envelope is un-gummed and does not require a physical mailing address.
Return addresses are traditionally written centered on the back flap of the envelope for a more formal look.
US Postal Service Zip is a useful site to help fill in the blanks on incomplete addresses. (http://zip4.usps.com/zip4/welcome.jsp)
Set up your guest list with our worksheet to make tracking and organization a breeze.
Assembly:
Insert all stationery into the envelope so when it is removed, the writing is facing up and ready to read. Typically this is facing the envelope flap.
For invitations with enclosures; start with the invitation on bottom topped with tissue paper, followed by the accommodations card, map or directions, reception card and finally the response card tucked under the flap of it's enclosed envelope.
Slide the packet into the envelope. If an inner envelope, do not seal. Flip the envelope over so the writing is facing up and slide into the outer envelope.
Seal, post and wait on your replies!
To be safe, it is best to weigh the complete packet with the post office for the correct postage. This prevents your beautiful invitations arriving damaged, late or the worst fate - returned to sender.
Timing:
For small to medium events, send out invitations 2 to 3 weeks before the event.
For a large party or one scheduled near a holiday, it is appropriate to send out the invitation 4 weeks in advance.
For weddings, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the wedding is the rule of thumb. Save the date cards 6 months to 1 year in advance of the wedding date is a useful courtesy if you are concerned about schedules or travel arrangements.
