How to Address Wedding Invitations
To address wedding invitations, use each guest's correct title and full name on the outer envelope, with married couples, families and plus-ones written by clear etiquette rules. The inner envelope names exactly who is invited. A digital invitation skips addressing entirely: you simply share one link. Here are the basics, plus the easy way out.
Titles and the basics
Spell out names in full and use the right courtesy title: Mr, Mrs, Ms, Miss, or Dr where it applies, avoiding abbreviations on formal invitations. Write "and" rather than an ampersand, and spell out street names and cities. When you are unsure which title someone prefers, especially Ms versus Mrs, it is always polite to ask. The outer envelope carries the formal name and full address; the inner envelope, if you use one, is more relaxed.
Married couples, families and unmarried or plus-ones
A married couple sharing a surname is traditionally "Mr and Mrs [First] [Surname]", though "Mr [Name] and Mrs [Name]" is a common modern choice that names both people. For a family, list the parents on the outer envelope and add the children's first names on the inner one. For unmarried couples, write each full name on its own line. To grant a plus-one, add "and Guest" after the named invitee, or better, use the guest's name if you know it.
Inner vs outer envelope
Traditional formal invitations use two envelopes. The outer envelope is the formal, fully addressed one that travels through the post. The inner envelope, which is not sealed and carries no address, states precisely who is invited, using first names or titles and surnames. This is where you make plus-ones and which children are included unmistakably clear, so there is no awkward guesswork. If you use only one envelope, fold that clarity into how you address it.
How a digital invitation skips addressing entirely
All of the above exists to tell each guest exactly who is invited on paper. A digital invitation removes the step: you build one invitation and share a single link by WhatsApp, Telegram, email or a group chat, so there are no envelopes to address, stamp or post. You make who is invited clear in your message or in the RSVP, where guests confirm names and any plus-ones. It saves hours of careful penmanship and lets you send the moment you are ready.
Frequently asked questions
How do you address an invitation to a married couple?
Traditionally "Mr and Mrs [First] [Surname]". A common modern alternative names both people, such as "Mr [Full Name] and Mrs [Full Name]", which many couples prefer today. Choose the style that suits your guests.
How do I address a wedding invitation with a plus-one?
If you know the guest's name, use it on its own line for a warm, personal touch. If not, add "and Guest" after the named invitee. The inner envelope is the clearest place to spell out who is included.
Do I still need to address invitations if they are digital?
No. A digital invitation is shared as one link, so there are no envelopes to address, stamp or post. You make who is invited clear in your message and confirm names through the RSVP.