How to Address Wedding Invitations
A Married Couple
On the outer envelope:
Mr. John and Mrs. Samantha Holt
Or
Mr. and Mrs. John Holt
A Married Couple With Different Last Names
List the person you're closest with first on the outer and inner envelopes. If you're similarly acquainted with both, list them in alphabetical order.
On the outer envelope:
Mr. John Holt and Mrs. Samantha Thuente
An Unmarried Couple Living Together
As with a married couple, both names should be included on the envelopes, but in this case, each name gets its own line.
On the outer envelope:
Mr. Joseph Hirsch
Ms. Rebecca Strecker
On the inner envelope:
Mr. Hirsch
Ms. Strecker
A Same-Sex Couple
Use the same rules you would for any other unmarried or married couple. If the couple is married, list the names on the same line.
On the outer envelope:
Ms. Celine Elgin and Ms. Jacqueline Purcell
Or
Celine Elgin and Jacqueline Purcell
A Married Woman Doctor or Two Married Doctors
If a woman uses her maiden name professionally and socially, the envelopes should read:
On the outer envelope:
Dr. Anne Barker and Mr. Peter Underwood
If she uses her husband's name socially:
Dr. Anne and Mr. Peter Underwood
If both parties are doctors, you can address the outer envelope:
Doctors Anne and Peter Underwood
Children 18 and Older
They should receive their own invitations (unless they're living at home with their parents).
On the outer envelope:
Ms. Audrey Abraham
Or
Mr. Jack Abraham
Note: If you don't include each child's name, you're implying that children are not invited. That said, don't be surprised if some guests still mistakenly assume their children are welcome. If you're concerned this will happen with your guests, ask your immediate family and bridal party to help spread the word that the wedding will be adults only and add the message to your wedding website. In the end, you may have to follow up with guests who don't get the message via phone to gently explain the situation.