15 Mailing Wedding Invitations Tips Ideas for a Perfect Send-Off
Mailing wedding invitations is an important step in planning your big day. It can feel overwhelming with so many details to consider. Simple tips can help you navigate the mailing process smoothly and make a great impression on your guests.
Getting your invitations just right is key to ensuring your guests know all the important details about your celebration. With proper preparation and a few easy strategies, you can confidently send out your invitations and enjoy this special time.
1) Address envelopes clearly with full names
When you address wedding invitation envelopes, use full names to avoid confusion. This means writing out first and last names without nicknames.
It’s also important to check with your guests about their preferred pronouns. You want everyone to feel included and recognized on your special day!
2) Use RSVP postcards to save on postage
Using RSVP postcards can be a great way to cut down on mailing costs. They generally require less postage than traditional RSVP envelopes.
Make sure your postcards meet the size requirements set by the postal service. This will help ensure they are processed without needing extra postage.
Plus, they are easy for your guests to fill out and return!
3) Seal envelopes with glue, not saliva
Sealing your envelopes with glue is a smart choice. It creates a stronger seal than using saliva and helps keep your invitations safe.
Using glue sticks is quick and easy. Just apply a thin layer for the best results, ensuring the envelope stays neat and tidy. This method is also great for high-quality envelopes.
4) Weigh a complete invitation to check postage
To ensure your wedding invitations arrive on time, weigh a fully assembled invitation. This should include the main invite, any inserts, and the envelope.
Visit your local post office or use a postal scale at home. Knowing the weight helps you figure out how many stamps you need for secure delivery. This way, you avoid delays and extra costs.
5) Consider hand-canceling stamps
When you mail your wedding invitations, think about hand-canceling your stamps. This means a postal worker will stamp your envelopes by hand instead of using a machine.
Hand-canceling helps prevent damage to your beautiful invitations and keeps the envelopes looking nice. Be sure to ask your local post office if they offer this service. It can add that extra touch to your special day!
6) Send invitations 6-8 weeks before the wedding
It’s best to send your wedding invitations 6 to 8 weeks before the big day. This timing helps your guests plan ahead and make travel arrangements if needed.
If your wedding is during a busy season or if many guests are traveling from afar, aim for the 8-week mark. This gives everyone ample time to clear their schedules and RSVP.
7) For destination weddings, mail 10-12 weeks early
For a destination wedding, it’s best to send your invitations 10-12 weeks ahead of time. This gives your guests extra time to plan their travel and accommodations.
Consider that they may need to book flights and take time off work. Early invitations help ensure everyone can join you on your special day.
8) Order extra invitations for last-minute changes
Ordering extra invitations is a smart move for your wedding planning. It helps you handle last-minute guest list changes or lost invitations.
A common guideline is to order about 10-20% more than you think you’ll need. This way, you can avoid the stress of rushing for reprints later. It also comes in handy for keepsakes or sharing with your photographer.
9) Use high-quality stationery for a good impression
Choosing high-quality stationery is key to making a great first impression. It shows your guests that you value their presence at your wedding.
Select paper that feels nice to the touch and fits your wedding theme. A well-crafted invitation can set the tone for your entire celebration. Don’t be afraid to invest in quality.
10) Double-check address spelling for accuracy
It’s easy to make mistakes when addressing envelopes. Take the time to double-check each guest’s name and address before you send them out.
Spelling errors can lead to invitations being lost or not delivered at all. A little extra effort ensures that your loved ones will receive their invites without any hiccups.
11) Include a return address on the back flap
Make sure to put your return address on the back flap of the envelope. This helps guests know where to send their RSVPs and gifts.
Having the return address in this spot keeps the front of the envelope looking neat and tidy. It also makes it easy for the postal service to return any undelivered invitations.
12) Use proper titles like ‘Doctor’ or ‘Professor’
When you mail wedding invitations, it’s important to use the correct titles for your guests. For example, if you’re inviting a Doctor or a Professor, make sure to include their titles.
This shows respect and acknowledges their achievements. You might write “Dr. Jane Smith” or “Professor John Doe” on the outer envelope to keep it formal and polite.
13) Include a map if the location is hard to find
If your wedding venue is tricky to locate, adding a map to your invitation can help. You want your guests to arrive stress-free.
You can create a simple map using online tools or apps. Highlight key landmarks and main roads to guide everyone easily. Providing this extra detail will show you care about your guests’ experience.
14) Opt for Forever stamps to handle future rates
Choosing Forever stamps is a smart way to send your wedding invitations. These stamps never expire, so you won’t have to worry about price changes later on.
They cover the cost of mailing a standard 1-ounce letter. If your invitations weigh more, just add extra postage. This way, you keep your mailing simple and seamless.
15) Mail a test invitation to yourself
Sending a test invitation to yourself is a smart move. It helps you see how your “real” invitations will look in the mail.
Fill out the envelope just like you will for your guests. This way, you can check the postage and make sure everything is clear and correct.
Don’t forget to note how long it takes to arrive. This will help you plan the timing for sending out the rest!
