Addressing a widow

jp09876

Hi, I have a few guests who are widowed. One of them is younger, in and I know she is dating. But some of them or older, like 70's+. . Is the proper etiquette to address their invites as "Ms So and so and guest"? Or should I just address it to them? I don't want to address it as "and guest" and have them feel offended. Thanks.

jp09876

What if you are unsure if they are dating someone?

jmp2004

Call them up and ask if they are dating someone that they would like named on the invitation.

amorg334

My godmother was widowed less than two months ago and I needed to send her an invitation for our engagement shower.  I addressed it as her current last name and made sure to ask beforehand if that was okay or if she preferred something different.  DO NOT BE AFRAID TO ASK!  They will not be offended they will most likely be happy you decided to ask.

smartlypretty

I have a few widows, and I asked around to find out how to wanted to be addressed. Definitely ask! The actual, proper way to address a window is:

Mrs. John Smith

but not all widows like this. They may prefer "Mrs. Helen Smith" instead. And if someone is very newly widowed (I have one whose husband just died), I didn't write "and guest". I included a note telling her she should feel free to bring a friend along and to just indicate this on the RSVP. I thought it was just too soon for her to see "and guest" on an invitation.