THe Ultimate Guide to Wedding invitation Postage
As a wedding stationer in California, one of the most common questions I get from couples is about postage: How much does it cost? How do I ensure my invitations arrive safely? Do I need extra postage for certain types of invitations? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the mailing logistics, don’t worry! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your wedding invitations reach your guests beautifully and on time.
Understanding the Cost of a Forever Stamp
Currently, a Forever Stamp costs $0.73 (as of 2025). A single Forever Stamp covers a standard letter that weighs less than 1 ounce and is flat. This means if your invitation suite consists of a simple flat card and envelope with no additional inserts, embellishments, or wax seals, you can likely mail it using just one Forever Stamp.
However, most wedding invitation suites include multiple pieces—such as RSVP cards, details cards, and sometimes even wax seals or ribbon—which can add weight or thickness. This is where additional postage may be required.
When Do You Need a Non-Machinable Stamp?
A non-machinable stamp is required when an envelope cannot be processed by the USPS sorting machines due to its shape, thickness, or added elements. Non-machinable postage is currently $0.46 per piece.
Here are a few common reasons your invitation may need non-machinable postage:
The envelope is square (USPS machines cannot process square envelopes efficiently).
Your invitation is thicker than 1/4 inch (due to wax seals, ribbon, or layered elements).
The envelope contains embellishments that could get caught in the sorting machines, such as wax seals or ribbon.
The envelope is rigid and cannot bend easily.
If your invitations fall into any of these categories, you will need a non-machinable stamp to ensure safe delivery.
Why You Should Hand-Cancel Your Invitations
Hand-canceling is the process of having your invitations manually processed rather than run through a machine. This helps prevent smudging, tearing, and bending—especially important for beautifully crafted wedding invitations!
Most post offices will hand-cancel your invitations upon request. Some locations may charge a small fee, while others may do it for free. It’s best to call ahead to check with your local post office.
Visit Your Post Office for a Postage Check
Before you buy all your stamps, take a fully assembled invitation suite to your local post office to verify the exact postage required. Every post office has a postal scale, and the staff can advise you on the correct amount of postage to use. This is especially important if your invitation suite includes:
Heavy card stock or multiple enclosures
Wax seals or embellishments
Square or oversized envelopes
Vellum wraps or belly bands
Skipping this step could result in invitations being returned due to insufficient postage, which can cause delays and extra costs.
Invitation Postage Examples
To give you a better idea of how much postage you might need, here are two real-life examples of invitation suites:
Example 1: Classic & Lightweight Invitation Suite
5” x 7” envelope (standard size)
Single invitation card on 120lb cardstock
RSVP postcard (no separate envelope)
No wax seals, ribbon, or embellishments
Total weight: 0.7 ounces
Postage Needed: One Forever Stamp ($0.73)
This suite stays under the 1-ounce limit and is flat, meaning a single Forever Stamp covers it.
Example 2: Luxe, Embellished Invitation Suite
6.5” x 6.5” square envelope
Layered invitation card with ribbon and wax seal
Separate RSVP card with its own envelope
Details card included
Total weight: 1.8 ounces
Postage Needed:
Base postage for 1.8 oz: $0.73 (Forever Stamp) + $0.28 (extra ounce charge) = $1.01
Non-machinable surcharge (due to square shape and wax seal): $0.46
Total: $1.47 per invitation
Final Tips for Mailing Wedding Invitations
Buy Extra Stamps – It’s always good to have a few extra in case of last-minute changes.
Mail Early – Send invitations 10-12 weeks before the wedding (or 4-6 months for destination weddings).
Double Check Addresses – Ensure all addresses are correct and legible.
Confirm with Your Post Office – Even if you’ve calculated postage at home, take a sample invitation to the post office for verification.
By taking these extra steps, you can rest assured that your wedding invitations will arrive safely and beautifully. Happy mailing!
xoxo -
Adrienne
