Stamping Wedding Invites: How Many Stamps Are Required?

Wedding invitations require a bit more thought than your standard letter. The cost of postage depends on the weight, size, and thickness of the invitation. Most wedding invitations are 5 x 7 as this is the standard size for the standard postage rate. If you go bigger or choose a different shape, you may have to pay more. The same goes for thickness: if your envelope is thicker than 1/4 you'll need to pay extra. It's a good idea to take your invitation to the post office to be weighed and measured so you can be sure of how much postage you need.

Weight, size and thickness of the invitation

The weight, size, and thickness of your wedding invitations will determine how much postage you need to attach to them.

Weight

The weight of your wedding invitations is determined by the number of pieces in the suite, the weight of the paper used, and any embellishments included, such as wax seals or ribbons. Most wedding invitations are either less than an ounce or more than an ounce. When a letter is one ounce or under, it requires a "forever" stamp, which is $0.55 each. When a letter has multiple pieces, it will likely be between one and two ounces, requiring a $0.70 stamp. Invitations with wax seals or ribbons will cost approximately $1.29 and up.

Size

The size of your wedding invitations also matters when it comes to postage. Standard wedding invitation sizes such as 5″ x 7″ or 5.5″ x 8.5″ are standard USPS sizes and do not require additional postage. However, square wedding invitations are considered irregular and will require additional postage. Square envelopes will cost about $0.20 extra per invitation for the first ounce.

Thickness

The thickness of your wedding invitations is another factor that can affect postage. If the envelope is thinner than ¼" thick at its thickest point, it can go through the sorting machine. However, if you include a ribbon tie for the envelope liner, the knot will likely be thicker than ¼", requiring additional postage. Other elements that can increase thickness and require hand-cancelling include wax seals and envelopes that are thicker than ¾ of an inch.

Cost of postage

The cost of postage for wedding invitations can vary depending on several factors, including weight, size, thickness, and shape. Here is a detailed guide to help you estimate the cost of postage for your wedding invitations:

Weight:

The weight of your wedding invitation suite is a crucial factor in determining postage cost. Most wedding invitations fall into the one-ounce or two-ounce weight category. Standard USPS postage for an envelope weighing one ounce or less is currently $0.73, while each additional ounce costs $0.28. So, if your invitation suite weighs between one and two ounces, you can expect to pay around $1.01. It's important to consider the weight of the paper, the number of enclosure cards, and any embellishments like wax seals or ribbons that can increase the overall weight.

Size and Thickness:

The size and thickness of your wedding invitations can also impact the postage cost. If your invitations include multiple pieces of cardstock, they will likely be thicker and may require additional postage. As a general rule, keep your envelope thickness below 0.25 inches to avoid extra charges. Additionally, consider using single-ply paper and avoiding bulky embellishments to keep costs down.

Shape:

Non-rectangular shapes, such as squares or circles, often require additional postage. Square envelopes, for example, usually incur an extra charge of $0.20 per invitation for the first ounce. This is because square envelopes cannot be processed through sorting machines and require hand-cancelling, which is a more costly process.

Embellishments:

Decorative pieces like wax seals, ribbons, or twine can enhance the beauty of your invitations but may also increase postage costs. These embellishments can make your envelopes thicker and more prone to damage during automated processing. As a result, you may need to opt for hand-processing or hand-cancelling, which typically costs an additional $0.21 per invitation.

RSVP Cards:

Don't forget to include postage on your RSVP cards. It is considered impolite to make your guests pay postage to respond to your invitation. Include a stamped envelope with the RSVP card to ensure a smooth and hassle-free response process for your guests.

International Postage:

If you're mailing your wedding invitations internationally, the costs can be higher. The current international rate for a one-ounce stamp is $1.55, and it's called a "Global Forever" stamp. However, you don't need to include postage on the RSVP envelope for international guests, as most countries will not accept foreign postage.

To ensure you have the correct postage, it is highly recommended to take a fully assembled invitation suite to your local post office for weighing and measurement. They will provide you with the accurate postage cost, and you can purchase the required number of stamps. It's always better to err on the side of caution and use slightly more postage than needed to avoid any "return to sender" situations.

Non-machinable elements

When sending out wedding invitations, it's important to pay attention to the non-machinable elements to ensure that your carefully designed invitations reach your guests in pristine condition. Here are some key points to consider:

• Wax Seals: Envelopes with wax seals are considered non-machinable as they cannot be processed through the machines at the post office. Wax seals add a beautiful touch to your invitations but often require more postage and may tear as they run through the machines.
• Thickness: Envelopes that are thicker than 3/4 of an inch are deemed non-machinable. This includes invitations with multiple inserts, thick cardstock, or additional embellishments.
• Custom Sizes: Square envelopes or any other custom-sized envelopes that deviate from the standard rectangular shape are considered non-machinable. These envelopes cannot pass through the sorting machines and require hand-cancelling.
• Ribbons and Ties: If you plan to include ribbons or ties on your invitations, keep in mind that the knot or bow may make the envelope thicker than the allowed 1/4" thickness for machine processing.
• Odd Shapes: Vertically designed envelopes or any other unusual shapes are non-machinable and will require a surcharge.

Hand-Cancelling:

If your invitations include any non-machinable elements, you will need to have your envelopes hand-cancelled. This means that the postmaster will sort and stamp each envelope by hand instead of using a machine. There is usually an extra fee for hand-cancelling, and it's recommended to visit the post office during off-peak hours to request this service.

Additional Considerations:

To avoid any issues, it's best to take a fully assembled and ready-to-mail invitation suite to your local post office and ask a professional postal worker to advise you on the correct postage. The weight, size, and thickness of your invitations will determine the number and value of stamps required. It's also important to proofread all guest names, addresses, and return addresses before sending out your invitations.

Hand-cancelling

To hand-cancel your wedding invitations, it is recommended that you first assemble a mock-up, complete with all inserts and accoutrements, and bring it to the post office to be weighed and checked by a postmaster or another USPS employee. They will be able to tell you if your envelope is too bulky for the machine and how much postage you will need based on the weight of your invitations.

The cost of hand-cancelling is an extra $0.24 per envelope, so this amount needs to be included in the postage. Some post offices will allow you to hand-cancel the envelopes yourself, but you will still have to do it at the post office. If you can't hand-cancel the envelopes yourself, a postmaster or another postal employee will be able to do it for you. It is recommended to go at an off-peak hour to have more time to talk with the postal employee about what you need.

It is also important to note that not all post offices offer hand-cancelling services, so it is a good idea to call ahead to different locations in your area to find out which ones do. Additionally, it is suggested to request hand-cancelling at least two weeks before you plan to mail your wedding invitations to allow enough time for processing.

Where to buy stamps

The number of stamps you'll need for your wedding invitations will depend on the weight and dimensions of your fully stuffed envelope. If your invitations are standard size and weigh under one ounce, you'll need one Forever Stamp to cover the mailing cost. If your envelope is bursting with details cards and fancy embellishments, you'll need some additional postage stamps in smaller denominations to stick on top of your Forever Stamp.

United States Postal Service (USPS)

The USPS is the most obvious and economical resource for stamps. They offer a variety of themes, colours, and up-to-date price denominations. You can also order a stamp catalogue for the year you're planning to get married to see what options will be available. Just be sure to double-check that your desired stamp style will be available with plenty of time before your wedding.

Amazon

Amazon is a great resource for stamps that have recently been retired. You can find modern stamp options and benefit from fast shipping if you have Amazon Prime. However, be cautious when purchasing stamps on Amazon that are still available through the USPS, as the prices may be marked up.

Etsy

Etsy offers a wide range of options, including vintage Forever Stamps and custom-curated groupings of stamps that match your wedding vibe. You can also find state stamps on Etsy, which is a great way to add a personal touch to your postage if, for example, you got engaged in Nevada and want to include a vintage Nevada stamp on your invites.

Edelweiss Post

This Minnesota-based business, owned by Patrick Dea, offers beautifully curated vintage and discontinued stamps. Browse options by themes such as love, fruit and food, plants and nature, and even famous people. You can also filter by your preferred colour palette. All orders over $35 ship free.

Little Postage House

A 2023 The Knot Best of Weddings Award winner, Little Postage House offers specially packaged stamp collections for wedding invitations, grouped by colour or theme. They also have an extensive inventory of state, city, and landmark stamps.

Magnolia Postage

Magnolia Postage has a range of vintage, small-denomination stamps and can source any stamp you desire.

Frequently asked questions