I’m not too sure how this could have been avoided other then having a different style of invitation. So make sure the style of invite is deliverable!

Another tip about the custom stamps is that you can do a cross between using existing designs and uploading your own pictures. You can start with wedding stamps (such as those created by our postage designer) and then customize them by adding names, dates, locations, etc.

You could also even add your own picture into an existing design template so there is a nice background already there which can produce a very nice overall effect.

Hi Everyone, it’s Lisa from Ceci. I’m so glad my top 10 tips were useful. It’s amazing how many details there are to think about! Below I’ve answered your questions regarding stamps and postage requirements.

#8. CUSTOM STAMPS – To answer your comments on the custom stamps, there are two companies out there that are, in this point in time, allowed to create custom stamps by the post office. They are http://www.zazzle.com and http://www.stamps.com. They each offer their own plus and minuses but I find Zazzle to be the most reliable and better quality. They also offer options in stamp size and orientation which is nice if you don’t want them so large. I know the bar codes and their company names are not the prettiest nor most desired but unfortunately they are required and are printed on each one. You are not alone Eddye when you say that you dislike them – believe me, it’s a common complaint across the board. In my perfect world, we would be able to eliminate that part. But at the moment it is required and unavoidable. To me, I find the exchange of having a custom design match your invitation suite is worth it than to be forced to get a stamp that doesn’t go at all because of the limited design options and rates. That’s another plus is that you can select your rates, therefore eliminating having to put on multiple stamps to get enough postage. Of course, it’s all a personal preference and not required. Everyone is different and that’s perfectly OK to do what you think works best for you!

Also, I want to clarify even further the way custom stamps work. There are two ways you can do it. You can either order from their pre-existing design options, or you can upload your own (which is what I do) so that way the stamp design matches perfectly. Make sure when you’re uploading your image is the correct dpi and size so you avoid warping or poor quality.

#4 POSTAGE REQUIREMENTS – MsTeacherLady is absolutely right! That’s why I recommend going to three different postal sources to advise you properly. That betters your chances of getting it right. And I must say that you should completely prepare yourself to expect three different answers! Yes, the post office is that unreliable. I always check their website as well (www.usps.com) to cover all bases. Take the highest rate from all and you will be covered. And lastly, I send a test to myself to make absolutely sure.

While I recognize it may seem like a complete waste of time, making sure you have the correct postage on your invitations is priority #1. You only have one chance to do this right so don’t blow it. Think of how much more time and money you would have to spend re-ordering new envelopes and calligraphy and new stamps to have to resend them out the second time. Nightmare!

Let me know if you have any more questions or need any more tips. I’m happy to share my experiences with you all anytime.

Always,
Lisa “Ceci” Hoffman