Everything you need to know about printed envelopes
When it comes to wedding stationery, envelopes are often an afterthought - but they set the tone before your guests even open the invitation. Addressed envelopes, also known as printed envelopes, take things to another level. Instead of writing every address by hand, your guests’ names and addresses are professionally printed, perfectly matching your invitation design.
If you’re ordering your stationery online, Cards & Pockets makes it simple to have your envelopes addressed for you. They offer elegant printing options and a wide range of envelope colors that coordinate beautifully with your invitation suite.
Option 1: Format Your Own Addresses
If you’re confident in your design software, you can use Cards & Pockets’ template files to format your guest addresses yourself. This option is great for designers or DIY couples who want full control over layout and typography.
You’ll:
-
Download the address template (available for Adobe Illustrator and Indesign)
-
Match the font and styling to your invitations
-
Upload the print-ready file directly at checkout
This gives you total creative freedom and ensures your addressing perfectly matches your suite.
Option 2: Let Cards & Pockets Format It for You
Prefer to skip the formatting part? Cards & Pockets can do it all for you.
Simply:
-
Upload your spreadsheet of guest names and addresses
-
Choose your font style and ink color
-
Review a digital proof before printing
They’ll handle alignment, spacing, and consistency so you get polished, professional-looking envelopes without the technical setup.
Explore the addressed envelope options on Cards & Pockets.
Which Envelope Size Should You Order?
When ordering addressed envelopes, make sure the size matches your invitation - but also leaves room for inserts and any embellishments (like vellum wraps, belly bands, or wax seals).
Here’s a quick guide:
-
A7 envelopes (5.25” x 7.25”) fit standard 5” x 7” invitations.
-
A2 envelopes (4.375” x 5.75”) fit RSVP or small enclosure cards.
-
A9 envelopes (5.75” x 8.75”) work for oversized or layered suites.
If you’re unsure, always size up slightly rather than squeezing thick or layered invitations into a snug envelope - it keeps your suite looking crisp and prevents bent corners.
Printing in White Ink (and Why to Be Cautious with USPS)
White ink printing looks stunning on dark envelopes — especially shades like navy, olive, or terracotta — and Cards & Pockets offers this option for both guest and return addressing.
However, if you’re mailing through USPS, it’s best to avoid using white ink for the delivery address side. Postal machines sometimes struggle to read white text on darker backgrounds, which can delay or misdirect mail.
A good compromise:
-
Use white ink for return addressing (on the back flap)
-
Stick with dark or mid-toned envelopes and black or colored ink for the guest address side
That way, you still get the beautiful contrast of white ink without risking postal delays.
Why choose addressed envelopes?
1. They save you hours.
Hand-addressing hundreds of envelopes is no small task. With printed addressing, you can upload your guest list and let the printer do the rest.
2. They look polished and cohesive.
Matching fonts and ink colors help your entire suite feel intentional. Cards & Pockets lets you select from calligraphy-style scripts, minimal sans-serifs, or even upload your own font.
3. They reduce errors.
Professional printing ensures every line is perfectly aligned and legible — no smudges, no spelling mistakes, no last-minute panic.
Types of addressing you can add
-
Guest addressing (front of the envelope)
-
Return addressing (back flap or upper left corner)
-
Custom designs (monograms, motifs, foil printing)
With Cards & Pockets addressed envelopes, you can even match the same color envelopes used for your invitations, RSVP cards, or save the dates. Choose from neutrals like soft white and kraft, or bold tones like blush, olive, and navy.
Shop addressed envelopes at Cards & Pockets
Preparing your guest list for printing
To get perfect results, create your guest list in a spreadsheet format with columns for Name, Street Address, City, State, Zip Code, and Country. Double-check every detail before submitting it for printing. Here is the link to their guide!
Tip: Always order a few extra envelopes for last-minute guests or address corrections!
Final thoughts
Addressed envelopes are one of those small upgrades that make a big impact. They instantly make your invitations look more professional while saving you a huge amount of time. Whether you’re designing your own stationery or ordering a semi-custom suite, printed addressing is worth every penny.
Ready to order? Explore Cards & Pockets Addressed Envelopes and add the perfect finishing touch to your wedding invitations.
