Etiquette for Extra Outer Envelopes

“When invitations are sent by post, an extra outer envelope is always used, and one such may enclose all of the invitations addressed to one family. When delivered by messenger, the outer wrap is no longer used.” 

Using the “Post” 

Manners and Customs Practiced in Polite Society

The post has become as suitable a method as any for conveying social messages. In the stately English etiquette, which our people have so largely adopted, it is considered thoroughly respectful to send cards and invitations by post. It is certainly as complementary to send them by post as by the dirty fingers of a hired messenger. 

In all countries, a card sent by private hand in an envelope is equivalent to a visit. In England, one sent by post is equivalent to a visit, excepting after a dinner. Nothing should ever be penciled on a card sent by post except the letters P.P.C. 

When invitations are sent by post, an extra outer envelope is always used, and one such may enclose all of the invitations addressed to one family. When delivered by messenger, the outer wrap is no longer used. A messenger was once considered the only courteous medium for delivering a ladies social messages, but the conveniences of the postal delivery have made it an approved and satisfactory substitute. — San Diego Bee, 1887

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia