Wedding invitation postage is a lot more complicated than sending a basic letter. So how much postage do wedding invitations actually need? Short answer: it depends on weight, size, and shape, and here’s how to get it right the first time.
While choosing the perfect style and wording is crucial for wedding invitations, determining the correct postage is equally important. After all, you wouldn’t want all of that hard work (and money!) to get lost in the snail-mail void!
In the United States, the cost of mailing wedding invitations can vary based on several factors. We’ve pulled together tips to help you navigate this process (recommended reading before you purchase your wedding invites!):
New to invitation planning? Start with our complete Wedding Stationery Guide for everything from save-the-dates to day-of signage.
Weigh It Before You Buy
The first step is to assemble a complete invitation package, including all inserts such as RSVP cards, maps, and any additional information you plan to send. Take this sample to your local post office and have it weighed. This step is VITAL because the weight of the invitation determines the postage cost. Remember, even a few extra grams can push your invitation into a higher postage bracket.
Size and Shape Matter
The United States Postal Service (USPS) charges more for non-standard envelope sizes and shapes. Standard rectangular envelopes usually incur the least expense. If your invitation is square, oversized, or irregularly shaped, it will likely require additional postage. This is due to the sorting process, as non-standard sizes cannot be processed through USPS’s automated machines and thus require hand-canceling.
Embellishments Add Up
Embellishments such as wax seals, ribbons, or bulky decorations add to the charm of your invitation but can also add to the weight and thickness. These features might require hand-sorting, leading to extra charges. To avoid surprises, it’s a good idea to check with the post office if your decorated invitation needs additional postage.
Don’t Forget the RSVP
Including return postage on your RSVP envelopes is a courtesy that ensures a smooth response process for your guests. Typically, a standard stamp is sufficient for these return envelopes, provided they adhere to the standard size and weight.
Check Current USPS Rates
Postage rates can fluctuate, so it’s crucial to check the most current rates. You can find this information on the USPS website or by visiting a local post office.
Custom Stamps, Custom You
For couples looking to add a personalized touch, custom stamps are available. You can order these from the USPS or various third-party vendors. Custom stamps can feature your engagement photo, wedding date, or any other personalized design that complements your invitation.
Always Mail a Test
Before sending out all your invitations, mail a test invitation to yourself. This step ensures that your invitation arrives in good condition and that you’ve affixed the correct postage.
TIP: To keep RSVPs organized (because trust me, someone will forget to write their name on it!) create a spreadsheet of your guest list (Google Sheets works great).
Bulk Mailing Options
If you’re sending a large number of invitations, ask your post office about bulk mailing options. Bulk mailing can be cost-effective and efficient for large quantities.
Cost-Saving Tips for Wedding Invitation Postage
Saving on postage for wedding invitations in the U.S. can be crucial for couples looking to manage their wedding budget effectively. Here are some cost-saving tips:
- Choose Standard Sizes and Shapes: When selecting the size and shape of your wedding invitation, keep it to the standard envelope sizing.
- Limit the Weight and Bulk: Keep your invitation light and avoid bulky embellishments like ribbons, large bows, or heavy paper. Each additional ounce can increase the postage cost.
- Avoid Extra Layers and Inserts: Minimize the number of layers and inserts in your invitation. Each additional piece of paper adds to the weight.
- Print Postage-Saving Response Cards: Use postcards for your RSVPs. Postcard stamps are cheaper than standard letter stamps.
- Double-Check Postage Rates: Always verify the current postage rates on the USPS website. Rates can change, and being up-to-date will prevent overspending.
- Purchase Forever Stamps: If you buy Forever Stamps before a rate increase, you can save money as they are valid indefinitely, regardless of future rate hikes.
- Consider Digital RSVPs: To save on the cost of return postage for RSVP cards, consider using digital methods such as email or a wedding website.
- Order Custom Stamps in Bulk: If you’re purchasing custom stamps, buying in bulk can sometimes reduce the cost per stamp.
- Ask About Bulk Mailing Discounts: If you have a large number of invitations, inquire at your local post office about any available bulk mailing discounts.
- Shop Around for Deals: Compare prices from various online and local stationery stores. Sometimes online stores offer deals or lower prices than brick-and-mortar shops.
For more on invitation wording, timelines, and etiquette, bookmark our Wedding Stationery Guide.
How much postage do I need for a wedding invitation?
Most standard wedding invitations need one to two First-Class stamps, depending on weight and size. Invitations under one ounce in a standard rectangular envelope ship at the base First-Class rate, but add-ons like RSVP cards, maps, or vellum wraps often push you into the next bracket. Always weigh a fully assembled invitation at the post office before buying stamps in bulk.
Do wedding invitations need extra postage?
Often, yes. Square envelopes, oversized invitations, and anything with embellishments like wax seals or ribbon almost always require extra postage because they can’t be processed by USPS’s automated machines and must be hand-canceled instead.
How many stamps do I need for a wedding invitation?
Usually one stamp if your invitation is standard size and weighs under one ounce. Two stamps if it’s heavier, square, or thicker than a quarter inch. The only way to know for sure is to bring a complete sample to your local post office for weighing.
Should RSVP cards include postage?
Yes, including a pre-stamped RSVP envelope (or pre-stamped postcard) is standard wedding etiquette. It makes it easy for guests to respond and significantly improves your response rate.
Can I use Forever Stamps for wedding invitations?
Absolutely. Forever Stamps are valid for First-Class one-ounce letters no matter when you use them, so they’re a smart buy if you’re worried about rate increases between ordering and mailing. Just confirm your invitation’s weight first — if it needs two stamps, you’ll need two Forever Stamps.
Why do square wedding invitations cost more to mail?
USPS charges a non-machinable surcharge on square envelopes because they can’t run through automated sorting equipment and require hand-canceling. Expect to pay roughly $0.40 extra per invitation on top of standard First-Class postage.
Cover photo by Ron Lach
