Mincho or Kaisho? Four Recommended Free Fonts for Printing Names on Invitations.
2020.10.24 published
If You Want to Print the Address on Your Invitation Yourself*
Wedding Invitations.
It used to be common to either write the guest's name and address yourself or hire a calligrapher, but now it's also acceptable to print on the envelope. There are no etiquette issues with this approach.*
So, if you want to create and print the address using Word,
what typeface (font) should you choose??
Here Are Some Recommended Fonts*
The three fonts considered appropriate for addressing invitations are:
・Mincho (明朝体)
・Kaisho (楷書体)
・Gyosho (行書体)
Within the Mincho category, there are variations such as MSP Mincho or HGP Mincho, differing in line spacing and thickness.
Generally, you should be fine choosing any font that belongs to one of the three categories above.
Additionally, it is considered auspicious to write "joyous events in bold and dark."
Therefore, when creating data on the computer, it's also an important point to ensure that the address is not too thin or too small♩
What About Gothic Fonts?
Using a Gothic font for addressing invitations isn't a strict no.
However, since it may diminish the formal feel and many older people think "Gothic fonts are not typically used," it is safer to avoid them.
Indeed, since it is generally considered best to write by hand,
it feels more natural to choose a font that is closer to brush writing rather than a Gothic font when printing.
Here are some staple fonts that are commonly used for addressing invitations, which you can rely on.
Fonts to Use for Invitation Addresses [1] MSP Mincho
The most orthodox and neutral, easy-to-read font is "MSP Mincho."
Mincho is the font most frequently chosen for addressing invitations.
Fonts to Use for Invitation Addresses [2] Yu Mincho
Another recommendation is "Yu Mincho," which also belongs to the Mincho category.
It is characterized by wider line spacing compared to the previous MSP Mincho.
Please choose whichever the bride and groom prefer!*
Fonts to Use for Invitation Addresses [3] HG Seikai Sho Pro
The Kaisho font is softer and closer to handwritten styles compared to Mincho.
For invitations, "HG Seikai Sho Pro" seems to be a good choice.
Fonts to Use for Invitation Addresses [4] HGS Gyosho
Lastly, there is "HGS Gyosho."
This font has a strong presence and offers a more traditional impression.
It could contribute to a formal atmosphere for the invitation!*
All Fonts Are Installed on Your Computer*
I introduced four fonts appropriate for addressing invitations.
I am using Windows 10, and all of them are fonts that come pre-installed with Office 365.
If you're planning to create the invitation address data yourself and print it on envelopes, be sure to refer to this guide!*
➡ "How to Print Addresses on Invitations" can be found in this article♩