In the age of digital everything, there’s something utterly delightful about the tactile experience of sending and receiving handwritten letters. There’s an elegance in the swoosh of ink across paper, a timelessness in the way a well-crafted envelope feels in your hands. Welcome to The Art of Correspondence series on Holly Heide, where today we dive into the charming ritual of how to address an envelope by hand.
Why Handwritten Envelopes Matter
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s bask for a moment in why we’re doing this. A handwritten envelope tells the recipient that they are worth the time and effort. It’s an intimate gesture, a whisper of nostalgia, and a tangible connection in our fast-paced, short-lived world.
Step-by-Step Guide to Addressing an Envelope
1. Gather Your Supplies
First, let’s assemble our tools:
- A high-quality envelope I like matching the size, but mix and match is my vibe.
- A fine-tip pen As you know our gel pens encourage me emotionally
- Forever stamp, if you are reading this in the US then this is the way to go. USPS has all the available styles online to choose from or walk into the local post office.
- Wax seal and Stickers use them inside and out.
2. Positioning is Everything
Return Address: Traditionally this goes in the upper left-hand corner of the envelope. It’s like your envelope’s little nametag, ensuring it finds its way back to you if needed. Write your name, street address, city, state, ZIP code, and country if you are sending it abroad. If you are a rule breaker like me, you will put it on the back. This works best if you are certain of the recipient’s address.
Example:
Bea Creative
777 Inspiration Lane
Best Town, OR 90210
Recipient’s Address: Mine always starts with a thoughtful flourish. I choose the prettiest letter in my recipient’s name, write that first, and then fill in the rest. That way the name is the star of the show, but the address is still guiding your letter to its intended heart. A big tip is to leave room for the stamp. You don’t want to cover up your artwork.
Darcy Doobury
344 Garden Street
Poppy, CA
90627
USA
3. Perfecting Your Penmanship
Your handwriting doesn’t have to be calligraphy-level, but it should be legible and neat. If you need a guideline, lightly pencil in lines on the envelope and erase them after writing. Keep your strokes smooth and even, and don’t rush—this is all about the experience. Proofreading is key. Go back and read what you wrote. Does it make sense? Are all your t’s crossed and i’s dotted?
4. Postage: The Cherry on Top
Place your stamp in the top right corner of the envelope. Make sure it’s appropriate for the destination—domestic or international—and pay attention to any weight requirements.
Tips for a Touch of Flair
- Ink Colors: While black or blue are classics, don’t shy away from using colorful inks. I choose my double-sided pens to match the paper, My flourish font helps me fill in the letters with a different color. Check out the video on my Instagram.
- Envelope Seals: Wax seals or stickers add a regal flourish. Just be mindful of mailing regulations as some seals might require extra postage.
- Personal Touches: Doodle a small illustration or add a decorative border around a sticker. It’s these little details that make your correspondence memorable.
Addressing Etiquette
For formal occasions or recipients, use titles and full names:
- Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
- Dr. Elizabeth Bennet
For close friends and family, feel free to be more casual:
- Aunt Margie
- Jamie and Alex
Practice Makes Perfect
Like any art form, practice enhances skill. Don’t fret if your first few envelopes look a bit wild. With each letter, you’ll find your rhythm, and soon, addressing envelopes by hand will become a cherished ritual. I have a signature little heart that covers up some mistakes. I challenge you to find them in my pictures/videos.
Conclusion
In a world where instant messaging reigns supreme, taking the time to address an envelope by hand is a gentle act of rebellion. It’s a nod to a slower, more thoughtful pace of life. So, grab that pen, take a deep breath, and let your creativity flow onto the paper. Your recipients will cherish the effort, and you’ll rediscover the joy in the art of correspondence.
Happy writing, dear friends, and may your envelopes always find their way to welcoming hands.
