Wait! How do I address an envelope?

Did you know that there's controversy when it comes to addressing a letter? While I LOVE my address envelope seals applied to the back of my envelopes, the United States Postal Service says that there's a proper way to make sure your envelopes get to where they need to be expeditiously.

That doesn't mean that I follow the rules...as you'll see, but it's good to keep their guidelines in mind.

When you're writing a letter, addressing the envelope correctly ensures that your letter gets to the right person and that it doesn't disappear in the mail.

Follow these five steps to keep the USPS gods happy:

1. Stick your return address label to the top left corner of the envelope. This includes your full name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
2. Write the recipient's address in the center of the envelope. Start with the recipient's name, followed by their title (if applicable), their street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
3. If you're writing to a business, include the company name on the first line.
4. Use the correct abbreviations for the state and ZIP code. You can find a list of abbreviations and a zip code finder on the USPS website.
5. Make sure the address is written clearly and legibly. The postal service may not be able to deliver your letter if the address looks like it was written by a toddler.

Here are some additional tips for addressing a letter:

• Use return address labels from Bohtieque. These add a dash of fun and art to your mailings and let you get back to the parts of sending mail that you enjoy.a
• Use a black or blue pen. Avoid using colored pens or pencils, as they may not be as easy to read.
• Print the address in all caps. This will make it easier for the postal service to read.
• Align the address on the envelope. The address should be centered on the envelope and should be evenly spaced.
• Check the address carefully before mailing the letter. Make sure that all of the information is correct.

Follow these steps, and USPS can get your mail out in record time. I hope.

Or, be like me and live on the edge. Put that return address label on the back as an envelope seal.