If you’ve started researching how to mail your wedding invitations, you may have come across the term "hand-cancelling." But what does it actually mean? And do you need to request it for your invitations?
Hand-cancelling refers to the process where a postal worker manually marks each envelope to cancel the postage, rather than sending it through an automated machine. This method helps prevent your beautifully addressed envelopes—especially those with wax seals, ribbons, or delicate embellishments—from being damaged during processing.
Wedding invitations often include special touches that standard mail just doesn’t. Think thicker paper stocks, envelope liners, layered designs, and more. Automated machines aren’t always gentle with these unique elements and can smudge ink, crumple corners, or even rip open envelopes.
Hand-cancelling reduces this risk by treating each envelope with extra care. While it may cost a bit more and take a little extra time, it ensures your invitations arrive in pristine condition—just as you intended.
At Julia Kay Design, we believe that your experience should be just as stress-free and enjoyable as your guests receiving your invitation. That’s why we guide you through every step of the mailing process, including:
Providing expert advice on postage amounts based on weight and size
Recommending when hand-cancelling is worth the extra effort
Offering envelope addressing templates to keep your suite polished and professional
We know how much you care about the presentation of your invitations, and we do too. When you work with Julia Kay Design, you’re not just getting stunning stationery—you’re getting a partner who understands the little things that make a big difference.
Not all post offices offer hand-cancelling services, so it’s best to call ahead and confirm. Be polite and explain that your envelopes are for a wedding—they’re often happy to help when they know it's for a special occasion.
Some post offices may allow you to stamp the envelopes yourself using their hand-cancelling stamp. This is a fun way to stay involved in the process while ensuring everything is handled with care.
Before sending out your full suite, mail a single completed invitation to yourself. This lets you see exactly how it will arrive and gives you the chance to make any last-minute adjustments.
Whether you’re mailing semi-custom designs or fully custom suites, Julia Kay Design is here to make your wedding stationery process seamless and stress-free. We’ll guide you from concept to mailbox, ensuring every detail—even the ones like hand-cancelling—is handled with love and care.
Explore our collection or get in touch for a custom quote at www.juliakaydesign.com. Let’s create something unforgettable together.
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