Various Styles to Address Envelopes

There are many options to choose from when deciding how you would like to address your invitations. You may want to write them by hand. Perhaps you are interested in hiring a calligrapher. Or you may find that printing your envelopes on your computer is the most viable option. Every option has pros and cons. Your decision depends on your own personal preference and what sort of tone you would like to set with your invitation.

Using the computer to address envelopes is inexpensive and useful if you feel that you have bad handwriting or you do not want to strain your hands from writing. You may be able to use a nice font that, when printed out, looks professional and formal. It is also relatively simple to set up on your computer. You may choose to use computer labels or print the addresses on the envelopes themselves.

There are some disadvantages with using the computer to address envelopes. If you choose to print the addresses on the envelopes, be sure to invest some time in printing, as you will need to feed in one envelope at a time. Also, when dealing with an envelope that has a liner, you may need to run a test to see if your envelope will successfully feed through the printer. Be careful not to make an ink smear on your envelope when removing the envelope from the printer.

The biggest disadvantage associated with using the computer is that many guests may find this to be an impersonal touch, particularly when using labels, as they may feel that they were part of a mass mail production. Usually, as long as the computer's printing is directly on the envelope, many will find this acceptable. However, there will always be a few guests who would have preferred the personal touch of a handwritten envelope.

The advantages of hand writing envelopes are that it is inexpensive, and with the help of friends and family, relatively quick to accomplish. It also provides a personal touch to your wedding. Your guests will be pleased that you spent the time to write an envelope for them.

A disadvantage to hand writing envelopes is that your writing may not be particularly legible. If the address cannot be read by the post office, this could cause delays in some of your invitations being sent. In addition, your handwriting might not look as formal as you wish. If your friends are helping you write the addresses, they may accidentally misspell names or addresses because they are not familiar with your family or the groom's family. And writing a lot of envelopes can make your hands ache over time.

Hiring a calligrapher is advantageous if you would like to rid yourself of the responsibility to write them yourself so that you have one less thing to worry about. Genuine hand calligraphy adds beauty and sets an elegant tone for your wedding. It is an artful way to present your wedding invitation envelopes. If you have enough time, you can even teach yourself calligraphy. Kits are available at craft stores, and many schools and community centers offer classes.

The only disadvantage to calligraphy is that there is a cost with either hiring a calligrapher or teaching yourself calligraphy. Typically, the cost to address one outer and inner envelope can cost $3. This adds up quickly if you have a large guest list. Teaching yourself may be less expensive, as calligraphy kits cost around $10. However, a long time investment is required in order to be skilled at the art of calligraphy.

Remember that the look of the invitation will define how your wedding is perceived. Deciding how you will present your invitation envelope defines your personality and sets the tone for your wedding.