Mailing Wedding Invites: Usps Guide For Couples

Mailing wedding invitations can be a confusing process, especially when it comes to following USPS rules. To avoid any issues, it's important to choose the right envelopes, ensure accurate addressing, and determine the correct postage. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process smoothly. Firstly, select envelopes of standard size and shape to avoid additional postage fees for odd-sized envelopes. Then, pay attention to sealing to ensure all enclosures are secure. Next, prepare your invitations 6-8 weeks in advance and proofread all addresses, including directionals and apartment/unit numbers. Take a complete invitation to the post office to determine the correct postage, as wedding invitations are often heavier than average letters. You may also want to consider hand-cancelling your invitations to protect them from sorting machines, but note that some post offices may refuse this service. Finally, send your invitations and consider mailing a test invite to yourself to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.

Choosing envelopes: select the envelopes before designing your invitations

When it comes to choosing envelopes for your wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to select the right size. The envelope should comfortably fit your invitation without any bulging or bending. Common sizes for wedding invitation envelopes include C5, C6, C7, DL, square, 5x7, and RSVP. If you have multiple inserts or embellishments like pockets or vellum wraps, you may need to go a size up.

Secondly, the colour and style of the envelope can be chosen to match your wedding theme or colour scheme. There are various options available, including white, ivory, cream, coloured, and textured envelopes. You can also opt for square flap, contour flap, pointed flap, or V-flap envelopes, depending on the desired look.

Thirdly, consider the sealing method. Options include gummed, peel and seal, and button and string envelopes. If you opt for a peel and seal envelope, you can avoid the tedious task of licking each envelope shut.

Finally, you may want to consider customisation options. Some companies offer the service of printing your guests' addresses directly on the envelopes, saving you time and ensuring a neat appearance. You can also opt for custom designs, colours, or fonts to match your wedding invitations and create a cohesive suite.

Remember to order extra envelopes to account for any mistakes or last-minute additions to your guest list. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose envelopes that enhance the beauty and elegance of your wedding invitations.

Weighing and posting: take one to the post office to be weighed and then posted

Weighing and posting your wedding invitations correctly is crucial to ensuring they arrive safely and on time. Here are some detailed steps and considerations to help you with this process:

Take a fully assembled invitation to the post office: Before buying stamps in bulk, select one of your fully assembled wedding invitations, complete with all enclosures and embellishments, and take it to the post office. This step is essential because wedding invitations often include multiple inserts, thicker cardstock, or decorations like wax seals or ribbons, making them heavier than your average letter.

Have the invitation weighed by a postal clerk: The weight of your invitation will determine the postage required. Most wedding invitations weigh more than one ounce, and each additional ounce incurs an extra cost. The postal clerk will weigh your invitation and advise you on the correct amount of postage needed.

Purchase sufficient postage: After determining the required postage, purchase the necessary stamps. Basic wedding invitations may only need a regular First-Class or Forever stamp, which covers up to one ounce. However, heavier invitations may require additional postage, such as a 2-ounce or 3-ounce stamp. You can also ask about love/wedding-themed stamps, which the post office sometimes offers.

Consider hand-canceling: If your invitations are bulky or have embellishments like wax seals, ribbons, or twine, request hand-canceling. This means that instead of being processed through a sorting machine, your invitations will be manually postmarked, reducing the risk of damage. Some post offices may charge a small additional fee for this service, and it may take a bit longer, so it's worth keeping in mind.

Mail your invitations: Once you have the correct postage and any special services arranged, it's time to mail your invitations. Hand them to a postal worker at the post office instead of dropping them in a mailbox. This ensures your invitations are properly handled and reduces the risk of damage or delay.

By following these steps, you can feel confident that your wedding invitations will reach your guests safely and on time, without incurring any unexpected costs or delays.

Sealing: use a cotton swab or glue stick to seal the envelope

There are several ways to seal a wedding invitation envelope without licking it. Here are some tips for using a cotton swab or a glue stick:

Cotton Swab Method:

• Dip the cotton swab into some water. Ensure the swab is damp but not soaked to avoid getting the envelope too wet.
• Roll the moistened cotton swab along the glue on the envelope flap. The water will activate the glue, creating a secure seal.
• This method is a great alternative to licking the envelope and gives you more control than using a sponge.

Glue Stick Method:

• Open the flaps of the envelope.
• Run the glue stick over the gum on the envelope flap. Do this just once, as applying too much glue can cause the envelope to wrinkle or not dry properly.
• Fold the flap down and press it into place.
• Rapidly rub your hands over the backside of the glued area several times. This warms the glue, making it extra sticky and helping it dry faster.
• This method is quick, easy, and not messy. It creates a strong seal that will ensure your invitations stay securely closed until they are opened by your guests.

Sending invites to young adults: send invites to anyone 18 or older

When it comes to sending wedding invites, it's important to remember that anyone 18 years and older should receive their own invitation. This is true even if they live at home. While you may want to save money by ordering fewer invitations, skipping young adults on your guest list is not recommended.

To ensure your invitations reach your guests in good condition and on time, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, give yourself enough time for mailing. It's recommended to have your invitations ready to mail at least 6-8 weeks before your wedding. This allows adequate time for your guests to receive and respond to the invites.

Secondly, pay attention to the sealing of your envelopes. Make sure the adhesive is secure all the way around, especially if you have multiple enclosures, to prevent the envelope from opening during transit.

Thirdly, consider the weight and size of your invitations. Most wedding invitations are heavier than your average letter due to multiple enclosures, so you may need more than a basic Forever stamp. Take one fully assembled invitation to the post office and have it weighed to determine the exact amount of postage required.

Additionally, envelopes of unusual shapes and sizes, such as square envelopes, may require additional postage. The United States Postal Service (USPS) has specific parameters for "normal" envelopes, and anything outside of these parameters will incur a "non-machinable surcharge". To avoid this, stick to standard rectangle envelopes.

Finally, consider requesting hand-cancelling for your invitations at the post office. Hand-cancelling means that instead of being run through a sorting machine, your invitations will be stamped by hand, reducing the risk of tears and ink smudges. While some post offices may refuse to offer this service, it is worth asking about, especially if your invitations are bulky or have embellishments such as wax seals.

Sending save-the-dates: send these 6-9 months in advance

Sending save-the-dates is an essential step in the wedding planning process. These notifications are like the "'little sister' to your official wedding invitation" and serve as an early announcement of your wedding date and location. They are typically sent 6-9 months in advance, giving your guests ample time to plan and ensuring they don't double-book. Here are some detailed tips to help you with this task:

Timing is Key:

Send your save-the-dates 6-8 months before the big day. This timeframe is crucial as it gives your guests enough lead time to book travel and accommodation, especially if your wedding is at a far-flung location or during a holiday weekend. Sending them too early can backfire, as people may forget or find it hard to plan that far in advance.

Finalize Your Guest List:

Before sending save-the-dates, ensure your guest list is finalized. Sending a save-the-date to someone and then not inviting them later can be considered impolite. Also, include your parents and bridal party, even if you know they're definitely coming.

What to Include:

Your save-the-dates should include four vital pieces of information: the fact that you're getting married, your names, the date, and the city and state where the wedding will take place. You don't need to include venue details or start times, as these may change. It's also a nice touch to include a link to your wedding website, where guests can find more information and access your registry.

Format and Design:

Save-the-dates can be in the form of cards, magnets, or postcards. Choose a format that suits your style and the level of privacy you prefer. You can also include a photo or a colour scheme that ties in with your wedding theme, but it doesn't have to match your official invitations.

Mailing Tips:

When it comes to mailing, never drop your save-the-dates in a mailbox. Always hand them to a postal worker to ensure their safe delivery. If your save-the-dates have embellishments or unconventional mailing materials, expect a higher cost per card. Go to your local post office and have a ready-to-go envelope weighed by a clerk to get the exact price.

Order Extras:

It's a good idea to order a few extra save-the-dates for keepsakes and to account for any last-minute guest list additions.

Remember, sending save-the-dates is an exciting part of the wedding planning process! It's your chance to get your guests excited and give them a glimpse of what's to come.

Frequently asked questions