Mastering Save the Date Return Address Etiquette
Sending out save the date cards is an exciting milestone in your wedding planning journey. But have you given thought to the return address etiquette? It might seem like a small detail, but it can significantly enhance the overall presentation of your save the date cards. Let's delve into the intricacies of save the date return address etiquette to ensure you're making a polished first impression.
Why Include a Return Address?
Including a return address on your save the date cards serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows your guests to easily respond to your invitation, should they need to. Secondly, it provides an opportunity to showcase your wedding website or other important details. Lastly, it adds a personal touch, making your save the date cards feel more intimate and thoughtful.
Who Should the Return Address Be From?
The return address should reflect who is hosting the wedding. Traditionally, this is the parents of the couple, but modern weddings often see a shift in this tradition. If you're paying for the wedding yourselves, it's perfectly acceptable to list your names as the hosts. If your parents are contributing, you might choose to list them, or a combination of both. Here are a few examples:
- Mr. and Mrs. John Doe
- Together with their families, John and Jane Doe
- John and Jane Doe, with their parents
Where to Place the Return Address
The return address should be placed on the back of the save the date card, aligned to the left. This placement allows it to be easily seen when the card is inserted into an envelope. If your save the date card is designed with a window envelope in mind, you can place the return address on the front, aligned to the left and slightly above the window.
What to Include in the Return Address
The return address should include the full names of the hosts, their address, and optionally, your wedding website URL. Here's a simple format to follow:
| Mr. and Mrs. John Doe |
| 1234 Main Street Anytown, State, ZIP |
| www.johnandjane.com |
When to Send Save the Date Cards
Timing is crucial when it comes to save the date cards. The general rule of thumb is to send them out 6 to 9 months before your wedding date. This gives your guests ample time to plan and book their travel and accommodations. However, if you're having a destination wedding or your guests need more time to plan, you might want to send them out earlier.
Can You Handwrite the Return Address?
While it's not a strict etiquette rule, handwriting the return address can add a personal touch to your save the date cards. However, it's important to ensure your handwriting is neat and legible. If your handwriting is difficult to read, it might be best to stick with printed text. You can also consider using a calligraphy service to add a touch of elegance to your return address.
Incorporating the right return address etiquette into your save the date cards can help set the tone for your wedding celebration. By following these guidelines, you'll create a polished and professional first impression that reflects the thought and care you're putting into your special day.
