Best Places To Buy Stamps For Wedding Invites

Wedding invitations are a big deal, and postage stamps are an essential part of the process. While you don't need special stamps, you want to ensure your invitations arrive safely, and a cluster of pretty stamps adds a nice touch. You can buy stamps for wedding invitations at the post office or online, with the latter offering a wider range of designs. This includes vintage and unique options that might not be available at your local post office.

Online vs. Post Office

When it comes to buying stamps for wedding invitations, you have two main options: online or at the post office. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Online

If you choose to buy your stamps online, you'll typically have a much wider range of designs to choose from, including vintage and unique options that you're unlikely to find at your local post office. This can be a great way to add a special touch to your wedding invitations and make them feel extra special. Additionally, buying stamps online can often be more convenient, especially if you're short on time or don't want to deal with the hassle of going to the post office. However, keep in mind that shipping times can vary, and you may need to order in bulk to save on shipping costs. It's also important to allow for some wiggle room in case of any shipping delays.

Post Office

On the other hand, if you decide to buy your stamps at the post office, you can be sure that you're getting the most up-to-date designs and that you won't have to worry about shipping costs or delays. This option is also great if you're short on time or want to avoid the irony of paying to ship something that's meant to ship something else. Before heading to the post office, it's a good idea to call ahead and check if they have the type and quantity of stamps you're looking for. The staff at the post office can also be a great resource for determining the correct amount of postage for your invitations, especially if they have unusual shapes or weights.

In conclusion, both online and post office options have their advantages and disadvantages. If you're looking for a wider range of designs and are willing to wait for shipping, then buying your stamps online might be the best choice. On the other hand, if you value convenience and want to ensure you have the most up-to-date designs, then the post office could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and the specific needs of your wedding invitations.

Vintage vs. Modern

Vintage stamps are a great way to add a unique and personal touch to your wedding invitations. They offer a romantic and charming feel that is sure to impress your guests even before they open the envelope. However, they can be more expensive and harder to source than modern stamps. So, what's the difference, and which is the best choice for your wedding invitations?

Vintage Stamps

Vintage stamps are typically printed on antique printing presses no longer in commercial operation, giving them a distinct aesthetic and tactile feel compared to modern stamps. They are carefully preserved and maintained in unused condition, making them rare and valuable collectibles. When using vintage stamps, you will likely need a large number, as they often have lower denominations and may require additional postage for square envelopes or international guests. Etsy and eBay are great sources for vintage stamps, with Etsy offering curated selections by colour, theme, or motif, and eBay providing a platform to explore the intrinsic value of stamps and connect with avid collectors.

Modern Stamps

Modern stamps, on the other hand, are readily available at your local post office or online. They come in various designs, including wedding-themed options, and can be purchased in bulk. Modern stamps also have self-adhesive backs, making them easier to apply than vintage stamps, which often require moistening or additional glue. Forever Stamps, a type of modern stamp, maintain their first-class postage rate even if rates rise in the future, offering a cost-effective option.

Both vintage and modern stamps have their advantages and disadvantages. Vintage stamps offer a unique, personalised touch that hints at your wedding style and pays tribute to your love story. In contrast, modern stamps are more convenient and may be more cost-effective, especially if you opt for Forever Stamps. Ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences, budget, and how much time you want to invest in sourcing and applying the stamps.

To ensure your invitations arrive safely, it is essential to use the correct amount of postage, regardless of the type of stamps you choose. You can consult with your stationer or local post office to determine the required postage based on the weight, size, and shape of your invitations.

Customizable vs. Pre-designed

When it comes to wedding invitation stamps, you have two main options: customizable or pre-designed. Both have their advantages and can add a special touch to your invitations.

Customizable Stamps

Customizable stamps allow you to put a personal touch on your wedding invitations. You can choose from a variety of themes, colors, and designs to match your wedding stationery and overall wedding theme. For example, if you're having a lavender-hued spring wedding, you can find purple tulip stamps to coordinate with your color palette.

Customizable stamps are also a great option if you want to include specific motifs or designs that may not be available in pre-designed stamps. For instance, if you're going for an Old-World or romantic look, you might prefer the stylings of vintage stamps, which often feature lower values and require more stamps to make up the correct postage. Vintage stamps can be more time-consuming to source and apply, but they add a unique and elegant touch to your invitations.

If you're looking for customizable stamps, there are several online retailers to choose from, including Etsy and Amazon. Etsy offers a wide variety of vintage and custom-curated stamps, while Amazon provides modern stamp options and convenient bulk purchasing. Edelweiss Post, a Minnesota-based business, is also a great resource for vintage and customized stamp collections.

Pre-designed Stamps

Pre-designed stamps are a convenient and economical option for wedding invitations. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a range of pre-designed wedding-themed stamps, including the standard Forever Stamp, which covers the cost of first-class postage regardless of future price increases. These stamps feature various designs, such as flowers and other appropriate motifs, and can be purchased directly from USPS or on their website.

Pre-designed stamps are ideal if you're short on time or don't want to deal with the potential shipping problems of online orders. They are also a good choice if you're looking for a cohesive stamp theme without the customization. You can simply choose a design that complements your wedding stationery, ensuring your invitations look polished and well-coordinated.

In addition to USPS, you can find pre-designed stamps at various online retailers. Amazon offers recently retired stamp designs, while Etsy provides a wide range of options, including state stamps for a personal touch.

Whether you choose customizable or pre-designed stamps for your wedding invitations, both options offer unique advantages to enhance your special day. Customizable stamps allow for personal touches and specific motifs, while pre-designed stamps provide convenience and a cohesive look. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your preferences, time constraints, and the overall vision for your wedding invitations.

Cost-effective options

When it comes to buying cost-effective stamps for wedding invitations, there are several options and factors to consider. Firstly, the weight, size, and thickness of your invitations will impact the postage cost. Standard rectangular envelopes that are 5" x 7" and less than 1 ounce typically require Forever Stamps, which cost around $0.55 each. Larger or heavier invitations may require additional postage, such as a $0.70 stamp for envelopes between 1 and 2 ounces. Square envelopes or those with non-standard closures may also incur a non-machineable surcharge.

To save money, consider using rectangular wedding invitations as square envelopes require more postage. Sending a Seal and Send invite is another cost-effective option as it mails with just one stamp. Using online RSVP services or including a phone number or email address for responses can also reduce postage costs.

When purchasing stamps, buy them early to take advantage of current prices before any increases. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a variety of wedding-themed Forever Stamps with designs such as flowers and seasonal motifs, which can be a good option. Amazon is another economical choice, especially for recently retired stamp designs.

Additionally, consider the following cost-effective tips:

• Weigh your complete invitation suite (including enclosures) at the post office to determine the exact postage needed.
• Buy stamps in smaller batches over time to spread out the cost.
• Opt for postcard stamps for save-the-date cards or RSVP postcards, which are typically around 15 cents less than Forever Stamps.

Weight and size considerations

When it comes to wedding invitations, weight and size considerations are crucial. The postage required for your invitations will depend on these two factors, and it's important to get it right to ensure your invitations reach your guests without issue.

Firstly, let's talk about weight. Most wedding invitations will fall into one of two categories: those weighing less than an ounce, and those weighing more than an ounce. If your invitation is on the lighter side, a "forever" stamp, costing $0.55, will usually suffice. However, if your invitation is heavier, you'll need to opt for a $0.70 stamp. This is usually the case when invitations have multiple pieces, which is often the case.

The weight of your invitation will also depend on the paper you choose. Cardstock weights for wedding invitations can range from as low as 65lb/176gsm to over 222lb/600gsm for double-thick duplexed cardstock. If you're printing your invitations at home, be sure to check your printer's maximum paper weight capacity, as not all home printers can handle heavier cardstock.

Now, let's discuss size. Standard wedding invitation sizes of 5" x 7" or 5.5" x 8.5" typically won't require additional postage. However, if you opt for a square invitation, you'll need to pay extra. Square envelopes will cost around $0.20 extra per invitation for the first ounce. It's also important to consider the thickness of your envelope. If it's thicker than 1/4" at its thickest point, you'll need to pay more for postage. This is often the case when invitations include ribbons, twine, or wax seals.

To ensure you have the correct postage, it's recommended to take a fully assembled invitation to your local post office. They can weigh and measure your invitation and advise you on the correct amount of postage. This is a crucial step to avoid any issues with delivery and ensure your invitations reach your guests without a hitch.

Frequently asked questions