Top Tips for the Design of your Envelopes

I’ve previously written about the need to make your Envelopes a ‘Shop Window.’

But I make no apology for revisiting this subject as envelopes can make such a difference to your business and of course your brand reputation!

  

Envelopes are the wrapping paper of the stationery world.

They package your invoices, letters, statements and estimates

They represent your brand through the mail

And, that’s why it’s vital to spend time when designing them; in particular there are 4 key components to remember before you hit the drawing board.    

1. Use standard sizes – Before you even start to design your envelopes, you should decide what size or sizes you plan to create. You can technically use any size you want, but it is smart to create one or two standard sizes that will be eligible for standard postage rates. This is the best way to make sure your envelopes will be functional and stylish.

2. Incorporate color – White is the standard for envelopes everywhere, so a little color can go a long way in making you stand out against the mass of mail out there. If you want to give your business an edge with stationery and branding efforts, print your designs on a colored envelope or incorporate color into the design.

A splash of logo or graphics, or just a little color accents to accompany the text will really help your envelopes get noticed, and assure they will be opened.

3. Keep your branding consistent – If you already have vibrant letterhead and effective business cards, try to make sure your branding flows smoothly and is consistent with each element of your printed marketing campaign. You don’t have to make the designs identical, but make sure everything aligns with your envelopes.

Whether it is color scheme, design theme or style or just the font and fixtures, consistency will create the impression that you are stable and reliable, so make sure your envelopes are in sync with the rest of your collateral.

4. Add return envelopes – If you didn’t notice, nearly all professional businesses and direct mail inquiries that are sent to you require return envelopes when necessary.

If you want your customers to connect with you and it is relevant for them to do so via mail, then get return envelopes printed and include them in the mail you send. You don’t want these to look like the primary envelopes you are designing, but you do need them if you expect your target audience to mail something back to you. If not, then don’t forget to include a website along the back of your envelopes or some instant form of communication.