Save On Postage: Wedding Invites Without The Hassle

Wedding invitations can be expensive, and postage costs can quickly add up. To save money on postage for wedding invitations, there are several things to consider. Firstly, the weight, size, and thickness of the invitation will impact postage costs. Invitations with multiple pieces or additional enclosures will likely weigh more and require extra postage. Choosing a rectangular envelope is also recommended as square envelopes often require additional postage due to their shape. Additionally, it's important to select the correct stamps that cover the extra postage costs. Forever stamps are a popular choice as they cover the cost of first-class postage for envelopes weighing up to one ounce. Using wedding-themed stamps or vintage stamps can also add a special touch to your invitations. To ensure you have the correct postage, it's best to take a complete invitation to the post office to have it weighed and to determine the necessary postage. Buying stamps in smaller batches over time can also help manage the cost. Finally, consider using an online RSVP service or including a phone number or email address for responses, reducing the need for postage on RSVP cards.

Choose rectangular envelopes to avoid extra postage

When it comes to wedding invitations, postage and mailing are important factors to consider. One way to save on postage is to choose rectangular envelopes. Here's why:

Postal Service Classification

The United States Postal Service (USPS) classifies mail by shape, size, weight, and the way it is prepared. Rectangular envelopes with four square corners and parallel opposite sides fall within the "letter" category, which has specific size and thickness requirements for standard postage rates. Non-standard mailpieces, such as those that are rigid, square, or unusually shaped, often jam postal equipment and are therefore charged a "non-machinable surcharge".

Size and Weight Requirements

To be eligible for mailing at the standard "letter" rate, an envelope must meet certain size and weight requirements. It should be a minimum of 3.5 inches in height by 5 inches in length and at least 0.007 inches thick. The maximum dimensions are 6.125 inches in height by 11.5 inches in length, and it should not be more than 0.25 inches thick. As long as your wedding invitation envelope falls within these dimensions and does not exceed the weight limit, you can avoid paying extra postage.

Advantages of Rectangular Envelopes

Rectangular envelopes are considered "normal" or acceptable for standard postage rates. Unusual shapes and sizes, such as square envelopes, often require additional postage. By choosing rectangular envelopes, you can avoid the "non-machinable surcharge" of 21 cents per piece. This is because rectangular envelopes can be easily processed through the Postal Service's automated sorting machinery, whereas non-standard envelopes require special handling, which incurs an extra cost.

Weight Considerations

It's important to keep in mind that the weight of your wedding invitation suite will also impact postage costs. Each additional enclosure card or insert will increase the weight of the envelope. If your rectangular envelope exceeds the standard weight limit of 1 ounce, you will need to pay extra postage. However, by choosing a rectangular envelope, you can at least avoid the non-machinable surcharge, which would further increase the cost.

Planning and Testing

Before finalising your wedding invitations, it is crucial to consider the size and weight of the envelopes. Choose rectangular envelopes that fall within the standard size and weight requirements. Additionally, it is recommended to bring one finished invitation suite to the post office to determine the exact postage required. You can also mail yourself a test invite to ensure adequate postage and see how it looks upon arrival. Making these considerations and tests will help you avoid unexpected costs and ensure your invitations reach your guests without any issues.

Opt for online RSVPs to cut down on postage costs

One way to save money on postage for your wedding invitations is to opt for online RSVPs. This eliminates the need for response cards and postage stamps, which can add up quickly, especially if you have a large number of guests. Here are some tips to consider when opting for online RSVPs:

• Use a wedding planning website: Websites like The Knot offer online RSVP services that can make it convenient for your guests to respond. This eliminates the need for postage stamps and can help you save money.
• Include a phone number or email address: If you prefer a more personal touch, you can include your phone number or email address for guests to respond to. This way, you can still receive responses without the cost of postage.
• Consider RSVP postcards: If you want to include a physical response option, consider using RSVP postcards. The postage rate for postcards is typically lower than the standard postage rate, so this can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional response cards.
• Weigh the pros and cons: Online RSVPs can save you money on postage, but consider whether this option aligns with the theme and style of your wedding. Some guests, especially older relatives, may prefer traditional response cards, so it's worth considering a mix of both online and physical responses.
• Plan ahead: Ensure that you give your guests clear instructions on how to RSVP online and provide them with enough time to respond. It's also a good idea to test the online RSVP process yourself to ensure it is user-friendly and functional.
• Be mindful of your guest list: Keep in mind that not all your guests may be comfortable with online RSVPs. Consider providing alternative response options for guests who may not be tech-savvy or prefer a more traditional approach.

By opting for online RSVPs, you can significantly reduce the cost of postage for your wedding invitations. This option offers a convenient and cost-effective way to receive responses from your guests while also giving you the flexibility to choose a method that aligns with your wedding plans and guest preferences.

Weigh your invitations at the post office to ensure you have the correct postage

Weighing your wedding invitations is a crucial step in ensuring you've affixed the correct postage. It's a good idea to bring a complete, assembled invitation suite to your local post office and have it weighed by a clerk so you can determine the exact postage needed. This is especially important if your invitation includes multiple enclosures, as each additional enclosure will increase the weight of the envelope.

The weight of your invitation will determine how much postage you need to use. If your invitation weighs one ounce or less, you can use a "Forever Stamp", which costs $0.55 and will cover the cost of first-class postage. If your invitation weighs more than one ounce, you'll need to use additional postage. For example, if your invitation weighs between one and two ounces, a single first-class stamp will cost $1.01. If it weighs more than three ounces, the cost will be $1.29.

It's important to note that square envelopes and envelopes with wax seals or thick ribbons are considered "non-machinable" and will require a "non-machinable surcharge" of $0.20. This is because these envelopes cannot be processed through the automated sorting machinery and must be hand-cancelled, which means they are stamped by hand to cancel the postage.

By taking the time to weigh your invitations and calculate the correct postage, you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of having your invitations returned due to inadequate postage.

Buy stamps in advance to avoid price increases

Wedding invitations can be expensive, and postage costs can quickly add up. One way to save money is to buy your stamps in advance. By purchasing stamps before prices increase, you can lock in the current rate and avoid paying more later. Here are some tips to help you save on postage costs for your wedding invitations:

Keep an Eye on Stamp Prices

Stamp prices can fluctuate, and it's important to stay informed about any changes. The United States Postal Service (USPS) typically announces price increases ahead of time, so you can plan your purchases accordingly. Visit the Forever Stamp Value website to stay updated on when the next postage increase will occur. You can even sign up for email notifications to ensure you don't miss any changes. This way, you can buy your stamps at the lowest possible price.

Calculate How Many Stamps You'll Need

Before buying stamps in advance, it's crucial to estimate how many you'll require. On average, couples need 3-4 stamps per household they are mailing invitations to. This includes stamps for "Save the Dates," wedding invitations, and RSVP cards. By calculating the number of stamps needed, you can make informed purchases and avoid buying more than necessary.

Weigh Your Invitations

The weight of your invitations will significantly impact the postage cost. Wedding invitations often include multiple materials, such as additional cards, maps, or directions, increasing the overall weight. Take a complete invitation suite, including all enclosures, to your local post office and have it weighed. This will help you determine the exact postage required and avoid underestimating or overestimating the number of stamps needed.

Choose the Right Envelope

The shape and size of your envelopes can also affect postage costs. Square envelopes, for example, often require additional postage due to their unique shape. They cannot be processed through automated sorting machinery and incur a "non-machinable surcharge." To save money, opt for standard rectangular envelopes that fall within the USPS size and shape parameters for regular postage rates.

Consider Using Wedding Stamps

The USPS offers wedding-themed Forever Stamps, which are a great way to add a special touch to your invitations while also saving money. These stamps have no expiration or denomination and will cover the cost of first-class postage forever, even if the rates increase after your purchase. Wedding Forever Stamps feature beautiful designs, such as flowers and other romantic motifs, making them a popular choice for wedding invitations.

By following these tips and buying your stamps in advance, you can save money on postage costs for your wedding invitations. Staying informed about stamp prices, calculating your requirements, weighing your invitations, choosing the right envelopes, and considering wedding-themed stamps can help you optimize your postage expenses.

Use Forever Stamps for invitations under 1oz

Forever Stamps are a great way to save on postage for your wedding invitations. These stamps will cover the cost of first-class postage forever, even if the cost of a stamp goes up after you've bought them. They have no expiration date and no denomination, and they will cover any envelope weighing up to one ounce.

The cost of a standard Forever Stamp is currently 55 cents, and each additional ounce costs 15 cents. So, if your wedding invitations weigh under an ounce, you can save money by using Forever Stamps.

To be sure of the weight of your invitations, it's a good idea to take one complete invitation suite, in its envelope, to the post office and have it weighed. That way, you'll know exactly how much postage you need and won't end up paying for more than you require.

It's also worth noting that square envelopes require additional postage. The United States Postal Service has specific shape and size parameters for envelopes to be considered "normal" and eligible for standard postage. Any envelopes that fall outside of these parameters are charged a "non-machinable surcharge" of 21 cents per piece. So, if you're looking to save on postage, stick to standard rectangular envelopes.

Another way to save money on postage is to use RSVP postcards instead of cards with envelopes. The postcard postage rate is lower than the standard postage rate, so this is a cost-effective option.

Frequently asked questions