The Ultimate Guide to Postage for Wedding Invitations

The Ultimate Guide to Postage for Wedding Invitations

When it comes to sending out your wedding invitations suite, postage might be the last thing on your mind, but it’s an essential step in making sure your beautifully designed invitations reach your guests on time. From understanding how much postage is needed to where you can purchase it, this guide will cover everything you need to know about using postage with wedding invitations. This information will help you avoid any unexpected delays or extra costs, ensuring a smooth process for your big day.

 

How Much Postage is Needed for Wedding Invitations?

A standard wedding invitations suite usually consists of the invitation, details card, RSVP card, and RSVP envelope. The weight and size of your suite will determine how much postage you need. A standard 1-ounce invitation, which includes these elements, typically requires one First-Class stamp in the U.S., which costs $0.73 as of July 2024. However, anything over 1 ounce, or invitations that are larger than the standard size (5 x 7 inches), will require additional postage. For example, a suite that weighs between 1 and 2 ounces will need a 2-ounce stamp, which is currently priced at $1.01 as of July 2024.

Don't forget to include a postage on your RSVP envelope for your guests convenience! 

If your invitation suite includes additional elements such as wax seals, additional cards, or custom envelope liners, it’s likely to exceed 1 ounce. Be sure to weigh your entire suite to determine the exact postage amount.

Common Factors That Affect Postage Costs

While most wedding invitations suite packages fall within the standard postage range, several factors can increase postage costs:

  1. Weight: Invitations with multiple inserts or heavy embellishments like wax seals, ribbon, or thicker card stock may require additional postage.

  2. Size and Shape: Non-standard sizes, such as square envelopes or oversized invitations, may incur extra charges. The USPS charges a non-machinable fee for square or rigid envelopes, which is currently an additional $0.46.

  3. Thickness: Invitations that are too thick or rigid to be processed through machines may require hand-canceling, which means a postal worker will sort the mail by hand. This typically costs an additional $0.46.

Where to Buy Postage for Wedding Invitations

You can buy postage for your wedding invitations from several locations. The most convenient option is to purchase your stamps online through the USPS website. They often offer a variety of wedding-themed stamps that can complement the design of your invitations. You can also visit your local post office to pick up stamps in person or request custom-designed postage stamps from online retailers that allow you to personalize stamps with your monogram, engagement photos, or other imagery.

If you’re ordering invitations wedding online from a website like Julia Kay Design, your designer can help you select the appropriate postage, ensuring your suite is as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside.

vintage postage for wedding invitations

Tips for Preparing Your Wedding Invitations for Mailing

Before mailing your invitations, consider the following tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:

  • Have Your Invitations Weighed: Take a complete wedding invitations suite to your local post office to be weighed so you can determine the exact amount of postage required.

  • Request Hand-Canceling: If your invitations are thick, square, or include delicate embellishments, ask the post office to hand-cancel them. This ensures they won’t be damaged by processing machines. However, not all post office locations offer this service so it's a hit or miss!

  • Order Extra Postage: It’s always a good idea to order a few extra stamps, as you might need to send out additional invitations or deal with unexpected weight changes.

Understanding postage for your wedding invitations suite is an important part of the mailing process. Whether you’re using a simple design or a more elaborate package, knowing the weight, size, and where to buy postage will help you avoid surprises. If you’re planning to order invitations wedding online, make sure to visit Julia Kay Design for beautiful, semi-custom and fully-custom designed invitations, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance with your postage or any other wedding stationery needs!


0 comments

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published