Postage for Invitations – Simple Guide to Mail Your Wedding Invites

Sending wedding invitations can feel like a big task, but the postage part isn’t that hard once you know the basics. In this guide you’ll get clear steps to choose the right stamp, keep costs low, and make sure every invite arrives when it should.

How to calculate the right postage

The first thing to do is weigh a fully dressed invite. Use a kitchen scale or a postage scale – most post offices let you weigh it for free. A standard 5 × 7 card with a paper insert usually stays under 1 ounce, which means a single First‑Class stamp is enough. If you add extra layers, ribbons, or a small box, you’ll need to add more ounces. Each extra ounce costs a set amount (check your local postal rates), so add that to the total cost.

Don’t forget the envelope weight. A thick vellum envelope can add half an ounce, so weigh the whole package, not just the card. If you’re sending a lot of invites, consider using a flat‑rate envelope. It lets you mail up to a certain weight for one price, which can be cheaper than adding stamps for each extra ounce.

Saving money on mailing

Bulk mailing discounts are a real win. If you have 100 invites, many postal services offer a reduced rate for batch shipments. You usually need to pre‑print a manifest and use a special label, but the savings can add up fast. Check with your local post office about “large volume mailing” options.

Online postage services are another easy way to cut costs. Websites let you print exact‑price stamps at home, often with a small discount compared to buying them at the counter. You can also purchase a postage meter rental if you’re mailing hundreds of cards over several months.

If you’re on a tight budget, think about using a standard envelope and a simple stamp design. Fancy foil stamps look nice but cost more. The invitation’s design is the star, not the stamp.

Timing matters too. Mail your invites 6‑8 weeks before the wedding for local guests and 8‑12 weeks for destination guests. This buffer gives you room to resend any that get lost and still keep the RSVP deadline on track.

Addressing the envelopes clearly helps the postal workers and reduces the chance of a delay. Use a legible font, print the address if you can, and include a return address on the back. A clear address also avoids extra handling fees.

Finally, keep a list of who you’ve mailed and when. A simple spreadsheet with the invite date, postal tracking number (if you used it), and RSVP status helps you stay organized and prevents missing any late replies.

With these steps you’ll feel confident about the postage side of your invitation plan. It’s just a few easy checks, and you’ll save money while making sure every guest gets their invite on time.