Advice from the Printer

When planning a marketing campaign, the decision between print and digital doesn’t have to be an either-or situation. In fact, some of the most effective strategies today blend the two. Print adds credibility and grabs attention, while digital offers trackability and quick interaction. Used together, they create a multichannel experience that increases engagement and response rates.  Let’s look at how to combine both for your next mail campaign.

At Inkwell Printing Company, we’ve seen firsthand how businesses and nonprofits benefit when they combine direct mail marketing with digital tools. Whether you’re promoting a sale, raising funds, or building brand awareness, this hybrid approach helps deliver better results.

Why Combining Print and Digital Works

People respond to physical mail. Studies show that direct mail has a higher response rate than email, especially when it comes to consumer engagement. Tangible pieces are easier to remember and often feel more personal. However, digital marketing offers speed, analytics, and convenience that can’t be matched by print alone.

When these two channels work together, they reinforce your message. A printed postcard followed by a digital ad, or vice versa, creates multiple touchpoints that keep your brand top of mind. And when the messaging is consistent, it builds trust with your audience.

Ways to Blend Print with Digital Tools

Here are a few smart, effective ways to combine print and digital for your next mailing campaign:

1. Use QR Codes for Easy Action

Adding a QR code to your postcard or brochure is one of the simplest ways to bridge the gap between print and online content. You can direct customers to a website, landing page, donation form, or event registration with a single scan. It’s fast and trackable. Plus, QR codes now feel familiar to most audiences.

2. Create Personalized URLs (PURLs)

PURLs are unique web addresses that bring users to a custom landing page. They make your message feel personal and give you useful data about how recipients interact with your campaign. For nonprofits or service businesses, PURLs help build a one-to-one connection.

3. Retarget Your Direct Mail Audience Online

If you can collect email addresses with your mailing list you can upload them to platforms like Facebook or Google to serve ads to the same people who received your postcard. This kind of repetition across channels boosts response rates and reinforces your call to action. It’s especially helpful when your offer has a time limit.

4. Track Responses with Unique Promo Codes

Another simple tactic is to add unique codes to your printed pieces. Whether it’s a discount code, donation tracking number, or a referral offer, these codes help you see exactly which part of your audience responded.

Examples of Smart Integration

Let’s say you’re a nonprofit launching a summer fundraising campaign. You send a postcard with a QR code linking to a mobile-friendly donation page. The mailer includes a heartfelt message, a suggested giving amount, and a unique donor code. Then, a few days later, the same recipient sees a follow-up reminder on Instagram with the same branding and message. You’ve now connected on multiple levels, visually, emotionally, and digitally.

Or maybe you run a local fitness center offering a free trial. You mail EDDM postcards to nearby zip codes. The piece includes a PURL that tracks interest, and those who visit the site get retargeted with online ads. This extends the life of the campaign and drives more conversions.

Final Thoughts

Combining print and digital marketing isn’t just a trend, it’s a proven method to increase engagement and improve your return on investment. It allows you to reach people in multiple ways, each one reinforcing your message. And with tools like QR codes, PURLs, and retargeting, it’s easier than ever to bring these two worlds together.

If you’re ready to take your direct mail marketing to the next level, Inkwell Printing Company can help. We’ll guide you through design, print, mailing services, and digital integration strategies that fit your goals. Let’s make your next campaign smarter and more successful.

Contact us with any of your printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is one of the most accessible options for businesses that want to reach local audiences without needing a detailed mailing list. Offered by the U.S. Postal Service, EDDM allows you to blanket specific neighborhoods with printed marketing pieces. It’s a popular choice for small and medium-sized businesses, but like any tool, it works best in the right context.

If you’re wondering whether EDDM is the right fit for your next campaign, this article breaks down the benefits, potential limitations, and best use cases to help you decide.

What Is EDDM?

EDDM is a mailing service that allows businesses to send promotional materials to every household on a specific mail route. You don’t need to purchase or maintain a mailing list. Instead, you choose the ZIP codes and carrier routes that match your target area, and your materials are delivered to every address along that route.

It’s designed to make direct mail marketing more affordable and less complex, especially for businesses trying to reach customers in a defined geographic area.

The Pros of Using EDDM

1. No Mailing List Required
   One of the biggest benefits of EDDM is that you don’t need to buy, rent, or manage a mailing list. This is especially helpful for new businesses that don’t yet have a large customer database.
2. Cost-Effective Delivery
   Because you’re mailing to entire carrier routes, USPS offers a lower postage rate for EDDM compared to traditional first-class or standard bulk mail. This makes EDDM a budget-friendly option for businesses with limited marketing funds.
3. Simple Targeting by Location
   If your business depends on local foot traffic like restaurants, salons, or retail stores; EDDM lets you target by ZIP code or even by individual carrier route. You can focus your message right where your potential customers live.
4. Larger Formats Allowed
   EDDM supports oversized postcards and flyers, which tend to grab more attention in a stack of regular mail. With more space to work with, you can feature bold visuals, coupons, menus, or event announcements.

The Cons to Consider

1. Lack of Specific Targeting
   Since EDDM delivers to every address in a route, you can’t segment your audience by age, income, or interests. That makes it less effective for campaigns that require precision targeting.
2. Residential and Business Limits
   Depending on the area, some routes may include a mix of residential and business addresses. If you’re only trying to reach homeowners, or only commercial spaces, you’ll need to review each route carefully.
3. Manual Preparation
   EDDM campaigns require bundling, labeling, and specific paperwork that must be submitted with your mail pieces. Working with a printing company that also offers mailing services can help streamline this process.

When EDDM Makes Sense

EDDM is ideal for:

• Grand openings or store launches
• Local promotions, discounts, or sales events
• Restaurants sharing menus or coupons
• Home service providers (roofers, landscapers, plumbers)
• Seasonal promotions targeted to neighborhoods

If your goal is brand visibility or attracting a general audience in a specific area, EDDM is a smart choice. It’s also a great way to test direct mail marketing without investing heavily in mailing lists or advanced targeting.

When to Consider Other Mailing Services

If your campaign relies on personalization or reaching a niche group, EDDM may fall short. For example, a nonprofit organization targeting past donors, or a B2B company focused on decision-makers, would be better served by traditional mailing services that allow for tailored messaging and audience segmentation.

How Inkwell Printing Can Help

At Inkwell Printing Company, we help businesses navigate the world of direct mail marketing, including full support for EDDM campaigns. From postcard design and print production to bundling and USPS drop-off, we make it simple to get your message into the right hands.

If you’re not sure whether EDDM or another mailing option is right for you, our team can walk you through the details and recommend the most effective route.

 

Contact us with any of your nonprofit printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

If you’re investing in direct mail marketing, your mailing list isn’t just important, it’s everything. The most compelling design and message won’t produce results if they land in the wrong hands. Whether you’re a nonprofit trying to reach donors or a small business looking to grow your customer base, building a strong mailing list can dramatically increase your return on investment.

Here’s how to build a mailing list that turns mailboxes into opportunities.

1. Start with Your Goals

Before you start gathering names and addresses, clarify your campaign’s purpose. Are you promoting a sale, launching a new location, or seeking donations? Your goal will shape the kind of people you want to reach.

For example:

• A neighborhood restaurant might want to target households within a 5-mile radius.
• A nonprofit organization might focus on past donors or people with shared values.
• A service-based business might look for high-income homeowners.

Understanding your goals helps define the right audience for your mailing list.

2. Use Your Existing Data

If you’ve been in business for a while, you may already have a valuable database of customers, donors, or contacts. Start there. Segment your list based on behavior, like who has responded to past mailings or who hasn’t donated in a year.

Consider organizing contacts by:

• Geographic location
• Purchase or donation history
• Age or household income
• Engagement level (new, lapsed, loyal)

Segmented lists allow for more personalized and effective mailings.

3. Supplement with Purchased Lists

Don’t have a list or need to grow it? Purchasing a targeted list can be a smart move. A reputable printing company that offers mailing services can help you acquire a list based on demographics, buying habits, or location.

When you purchase a list, be sure to:

• Verify the list is up to date (preferably updated within the last six months)
• Choose a source that complies with privacy and data regulations
• Avoid lists that have been sold repeatedly or widely distributed

4. Explore Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM)

If you don’t need to target individuals by name, EDDM is a cost-effective way to reach every household in a specific area. It’s ideal for businesses that serve local neighborhoods like salons, auto shops, or restaurants.

With EDDM, you can choose carrier routes by ZIP code and send to entire blocks or communities. There’s no need to buy or manage a traditional mailing list, and postage rates are lower than standard direct mail.

This option works best when your message is relevant to most people in a given area and doesn’t require personalization.

5. Clean and Update Your Mailing List Regularly

A mailing list isn’t a one-time setup. It’s a living asset that should be maintained. Sending to old or incorrect addresses leads to wasted money, higher postage, and returned mail.

Make sure to:

• Remove duplicates
• Correct formatting issues
• Eliminate undeliverable addresses
• Update contact info as needed

Using mailing services from a commercial printer can help automate this process. At Inkwell Printing Company, for example, we run address verification and presort mailing to save time and lower postage costs.

6. Track Results and Refine Your List

Once your campaign is sent, track what happens next. Which segments responded? Which didn’t? This feedback can guide how you update or improve your mailing list for future campaigns.

Consider using tools like:

• Personalized QR codes or URLs to track response
• Coupon codes unique to each segment
• Phone numbers assigned to specific offers

By reviewing results, you’ll gradually build a smarter, more profitable mailing list.

Final Thoughts

A well-crafted mailing list can be the difference between wasted postage and measurable results. Whether you’re managing your own data or working with a printing company that offers mailing services, taking the time to build and maintain your list will pay off.

If you’re unsure where to start or need help selecting between EDDM and targeted direct mail, the team at Inkwell Printing Company can guide you. From design to delivery, our mailing services are built to make campaigns easier, faster, and more effective.

 

Contact us with any of your nonprofit printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

In the world of fundraising, digital tools often take the spotlight. But for nonprofits looking to make a real, lasting impression, postcard campaigns remain one of the most effective, budget-friendly, ways to boost donations. Whether you’re running a seasonal drive, announcing an event, or thanking supporters, postcards offer a direct, tangible connection to your audience that email simply can’t match.

At Inkwell Printing Company, we’ve worked with dozens of nonprofits to create print and postcard campaigns that get noticed, get read, and most importantly; get results. Here’s how your organization can maximize donations through strategic direct mail postcard efforts.

1. Make It Personal

Personalization is the key to any successful direct mail campaign. Using names, past donation history, or cause-specific appeals makes recipients feel valued. Variable data printing allows you to customize each card with personal touches while still printing in bulk. It’s a powerful way to turn a generic appeal into a heartfelt ask.

Even something as simple as “Thanks for supporting our 2023 food drive, Sarah” can make a donor feel like more than just a number.

2. Focus on Design That Connects

A cluttered or confusing postcard won’t inspire generosity. Keep your design clean, with a strong visual focal point (like a powerful photo) and a clear call to action. Use bold headlines, readable fonts, and eye-catching colors that match your branding.

Professional nonprofit printing services can help you balance impact with budget, ensuring your message is not only heard but remembered.

Pro tip: Include your organization’s logo, website, and a scannable QR code for quick access to online donations.

3. Tell a Story

Donors don’t give to organizations, they give to causes, people, and stories. Postcard campaigns need to share a real, emotional snapshot of the impact your nonprofit is making.

For example:

• “Because of your support, Maria now has clean water for her village.”
• “Thanks to you, 150 local kids received school supplies last semester.”

Stories bring abstract causes to life. They also help supporters visualize the result of their gift, encouraging repeat giving.

4. Use the Right Mailing Strategy

Choosing the right type of mailing method can increase reach while reducing cost. Many nonprofits use Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) to blanket specific ZIP codes with their postcards. This is great for event promotions or awareness campaigns.

But when it comes to fundraising, a targeted donor list with personalized postcards often performs better. Inkwell Printing can help you compare options based on your audience, goals, and budget.

5. Don’t Forget the Follow-Up

Your postcard is the first step—but not the last. Following up with an email, phone call, or thank-you note reinforces your message and builds donor loyalty.

Some nonprofits run multi-touch campaigns, where a donor receives a postcard, then an email, then a thank-you letter. This consistent communication creates familiarity and increases trust—both crucial for driving donations.

6. Measure and Refine

As with any marketing effort, tracking your results is essential. If you use a custom donation URL or QR code on your postcard, you can easily monitor how many donations came directly from the campaign. This insight helps you improve future mailings and identify what types of messages resonate most with your audience.

Final Thoughts

In a world of overflowing inboxes and fleeting digital ads, postcard campaigns offer a refreshing, effective way for nonprofits to connect with donors. With the right design, printing partner, and message, a postcard can do more than just inform, it can inspire.

If your organization is ready to explore nonprofit printing services for your next campaign, Inkwell Printing Company is here to help. We specialize in high-quality, affordable direct mail solutions that support your mission and grow your impact.

 

Contact us with any of your nonprofit printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

In 2025, postcard marketing continues to prove its value as a powerful tool for businesses and nonprofits alike. Even in an increasingly digital world, postcards stand out by offering a tangible, personal way to reach audiences. When combined with modern strategies and the right mailing services, postcard marketing can deliver impressive results. This post will explore current trends, effective strategies, and design tips to help you make the most of your next campaign.

Trends in Postcard Marketing

One of the most noticeable trends in postcard marketing is the growing use of personalization. Thanks to advances in data collection and printing technology, businesses can now create highly targeted direct mail campaigns. Personalized postcards that address the recipient by name and reference their past behaviors or interests are seeing higher engagement rates than generic messages.

Another key trend is the integration of digital to print marketing. Many businesses are adding QR codes to their postcards, directing recipients to landing pages, special promotions, or videos. This seamless bridge between physical and digital communication enhances customer engagement and provides valuable tracking data.

Lastly, Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is growing in popularity among small businesses. EDDM allows businesses to target specific neighborhoods without needing a mailing list, making it an affordable and effective way to increase local awareness.

Strategies for Successful Postcard Campaigns

Effective postcard marketing starts with a clear understanding of your audience. Spend time researching who your ideal customers are and what messages will resonate with them. For nonprofits, this might mean highlighting a recent success story or upcoming fundraising event. For small businesses, it could focus on a special promotion or new product launch.

Next, select the right mailing services. Partnering with a professional printing company ensures that your postcards are produced at high quality and mailed efficiently. Many businesses are now opting for full-service solutions where design, printing, and mailing are handled under one roof. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency across the entire campaign.

Using EDDM can also be a strategic move. It is perfect for businesses aiming to saturate a specific geographic area with minimal cost. Whether you are promoting a new store opening or a seasonal sale, EDDM helps you reach every household in your chosen neighborhood without needing to purchase a mailing list.

Finally, always measure your results. Include a unique code, URL, or phone number on each batch of postcards to track response rates. Analyzing what works and what does not will allow you to refine future direct mail campaigns for even better performance.

Design Tips for Effective Postcards

Design is critical in postcard marketing. Your postcard needs to grab attention quickly and deliver your message clearly. Here are a few design tips to help your postcards stand out in 2025:

• Use Bold Headlines: A strong, clear headline at the top of the postcard captures attention immediately.
• Include a Strong Call-to-Action (CTA): Tell the reader exactly what you want them to do next, whether it is visiting your website, calling for a quote, or attending an event.
• Incorporate Eye-Catching Images: High-quality, relevant images make your postcard more visually appealing and help convey your message faster than text alone.
• Keep It Simple: Avoid clutter. Focus on one primary message and make sure it is easy to understand at a glance.
• Highlight Key Benefits: Instead of just listing features, explain how your product or service solves a problem or improves the customer’s life.
• Add Personalization: Whenever possible, personalize the postcard with the recipient’s name or other relevant details.

Incorporating QR codes and short URLs can also drive online engagement and provide useful tracking metrics.

Conclusion

Postcard marketing remains a vibrant and effective tool in 2025, offering businesses and nonprofits a way to connect directly with their audiences. By staying on top of trends like personalization, digital integration, sustainability, and EDDM, and by using smart design and strategic mailing services, you can maximize your postcard campaign’s impact. Whether you are boosting local awareness, promoting a special offer, or fundraising for a cause, postcards continue to deliver real results in the ever-evolving marketing landscape.

Contact us with any of your printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

Finding cost effective printing doesn’t have to be a challenge. Startups and nonprofits often work with tight budgets. Yet, high‑quality collateral can make a big difference. With the right approach, you can keep costs low and impact high.

Why Cost‑Effective Printing Matters

• Budget constraints
  Small teams and nonprofit boards need to stretch every dollar.
• Professional image
  Well‑designed brochures, flyers, and mailers build trust.
• Measurable results
  Printed materials can drive donations, sales, and awareness.

5 Tips for Affordable Printing Services

1. Order in bulk
   • Printing larger quantities lowers the unit cost.
   • Store extra stock for future events or campaigns.
2. Choose standard sizes
   • Standard paper sizes (e.g., 5” x 7”) cost less than custom cuts.
   • Templates are easier to design and proof.
3. Pick the right paper stock
   • Mid‑weight paper (80–100 lb) balances quality and cost.
   • Avoid premium finishes unless needed.
4. Use digital printing for small runs
   • Digital presses have no plate‑setup fees.
   • Ideal for quick turnarounds.
5. Plan ahead
   • Rush orders incur extra fees.
   • A clear schedule helps control print budgets.

Nonprofit Printing Strategies

Nonprofit organizations have unique needs. Here’s how to get the most from your nonprofit printing budget:

• Leverage nonprofit discounts
  Many printers offer special rates for registered charities.
• Combine print & mail
  Bundling printing and mailing services can lower postage costs.
• Design for impact
  Use compelling images and concise text to boost response rates.
• Track performance
  Add unique codes or QR codes to measure results.

“A well‑targeted postcard can deliver a 5–9% response rate for nonprofits.”
— Industry benchmark

Budget Print Marketing Ideas

Launching a campaign on a shoestring? Try these budget print marketing tactics:

• Postcard mailers
  • Small size keeps postage low.
  • Highly visual; easy to read.
• Door‑hanger flyers
  • Great for local outreach.
  • Low design and printing cost.
• Table tents
  • Perfect for events and community centers.
  • Minimal paper use.
• Stickers & labels
  • Hand out at fairs and meetings.
  • Budget‑friendly giveaways.

Workflow for Print & Mail

1. Design phase
   • Use simple layouts to avoid complex color work.
   • Incorporate your logo, brand colors, and a clear call‑to‑action.
2. Proofing
   • Check spelling, margins, and bleeds.
   • Approve one final proof before production.
3. Print setup
   • Choose digital or offset based on run size.
   • Confirm paper stock and finish.
4. Mailing services
   • Provide mailing list in approved format.
   • Ask about bulk‑mail permits to cut postage.
5. Delivery & tracking
   • Monitor delivery dates.
   • Analyze response rates to refine your next campaign.

How to Compare Quotes

When evaluating quotes for affordable printing services, keep these factors in mind:

Factor	Why It Matters
Unit cost	Lower cost per piece with higher volumes
Setup fees	Digital presses often have no plate charges
Paper options	Select mid‐weight stock to balance quality/cost
Turnaround time	Faster jobs may incur rush fees
Mailing integration	Bundling saves time and lowers postage rates

Final Thoughts

Investing wisely in cost-effective printing pays off. Startups can establish credibility. Nonprofits can stretch donor dollars further. By choosing the right partner, ordering smart, and designing for impact, you unlock powerful budget print marketing tools.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free quote on affordable printing services and learn how our nonprofit printing solutions can help you achieve your goals without breaking the bank.

Contact us with any of your printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

Print marketing is still one of the most powerful tools for reaching customers and building brand recognition. Despite the rise of digital channels, direct mail and printed materials continue to drive results when used effectively. However, many businesses make critical mistakes that can reduce the impact of their efforts. In this post, we’ll look at five common print marketing mistakes and offer tips to help you avoid them.

1. Not Defining a Clear Goal
   One of the most common mistakes is jumping into a print marketing campaign without a clear goal. Are you trying to promote a sale? Drive traffic to your website? Raise awareness about a new product?

Without a clear objective, your messaging can feel scattered, and your return on investment will suffer. Every printed piece should serve a specific purpose. Whether you’re sending a direct mail postcard or printing brochures for a trade show, make sure your materials align with your overall marketing goals.

Tip: Before placing a print order, ask yourself: “What action do I want the reader to take?” Let that answer guide your design and messaging choices.

2. Overloading the Design with Text and Graphics
   It’s tempting to include every detail about your business in one flyer, but less is often more. Crowded layouts and small text can overwhelm your audience and bury your core message.

A clean, simple design helps your key points stand out. Make good use of white space and keep text short and easy to scan. Clear headlines, bullet points, and strong visuals go a long way in making your materials more effective.

Tip: Focus on one main message per piece and support it with a few strong details. If you need to share more information, consider directing readers to your website.

3. Ignoring Print Specifications
   Sending a low-resolution file or the wrong color format to your printing services provider can lead to poor-quality results. Many print marketing projects get delayed or ruined because the original files weren’t set up correctly.

Make sure your design files use CMYK color mode, include bleed and trim lines, and are set to at least 300 DPI (dots per inch). These technical details are essential for producing crisp, professional-looking materials.

Tip: If you’re unsure about file prep, ask your printer for a file setup guide or have your design team work directly with them.

4. Skipping a Call-to-Action (CTA)
   Every piece of marketing, print included, needs a call-to-action. A CTA tells your audience what to do next, whether it’s visiting your website, calling a phone number, scanning a QR code, or visiting your store.

Without a clear CTA, your beautifully printed piece may be appreciated but forgotten. Don’t assume the reader will figure out the next step on their own.

Tip: Use a direct and simple CTA. Phrases like “Call now,” “Visit us online,” or “Schedule a free consultation” work well. Make it easy for people to take action.

5. Not Taking Advantage of Mailing Services
   Many businesses print great materials but fail to get them into the hands of their audience. Mailing services, especially direct mail, can help bridge that gap. Targeted direct mail campaigns allow you to reach specific neighborhoods, demographics, or customer types.

By using a professional mailing service, you ensure your materials are delivered efficiently, affordably, and in compliance with postal regulations.

Tip: Talk to your printer about bundling mailing services with your printing project. It can save you time and money, and ensure a smoother campaign from start to finish.

Conclusion
Print marketing remains a powerful way to reach customers, especially when it’s done right. Avoiding these common mistakes can help you create materials that stand out, communicate clearly, and drive results. Whether you’re designing a direct mail piece, a business brochure, or event flyers, a little extra planning can go a long way.

Need help with your next print marketing project? At Inkwell Printing Company, we specialize in high-quality printing services and full-service direct mail campaigns. Contact us today to get started.

Contact us with any of your printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

Planning an event?  Whether it’s a trade show, corporate gathering, fundraiser, or community celebration, every detail matters. One of the most important and often overlooked elements is your event materials. Professionally printed materials not only help your event run smoothly, but they also reflect the quality and credibility of your organization. In this post, we’ll break down the essential printed items you should consider and why working with a trusted printing partner is key.

Why Event Materials Matter

Printed event materials serve many purposes. They provide information, enhance the visual experience, help guide attendees, and promote your brand. From the moment a guest walks through the door, your printed materials set the tone. When done right, they show professionalism, reinforce your messaging, and leave a lasting impression.

Must-Have Printed Event Materials

Here are the most common and impactful event materials you’ll want to include in your planning:

1. Event Signage

Large-format signs are essential for visibility and navigation. Common signage types include:

• Welcome signs
• Directional signage
• Schedules or agendas
• Booth banners

These materials help attendees know where to go and ensure your event runs smoothly.

2. Name Badges and Lanyards

Name badges may seem simple, but they make networking easier and more personal. Customized name tags with your logo and brand colors also increase brand recognition during the event.

3. Flyers and Handouts

Flyers are quick, effective tools for sharing event details, speaker bios, sponsor info, and more. High-quality flyer printing gives attendees something they can take home, which extends your reach beyond the event.

4. Brochures and Booklets

For events with multiple sessions or sponsors, a printed brochure or program booklet can organize all the key information in one place. These are perfect for fundraisers, conferences, and multi-day events.

5. Table Tents and Menu Cards

For seated events, table tents are great for identifying table numbers, promoting key messages, or highlighting sponsors. Menu cards are essential for galas and catered events.

6. Branded Folders and Packets

Welcome folders or packets make a strong first impression. Include your schedule, handouts, and promotional materials. It’s a simple touch that adds polish and value to your event experience.

7. Postcards and Invitations (Direct Mail)

Don’t forget about your pre-event strategy. Using direct mail to send printed postcards or formal invitations is a powerful way to boost attendance. Unlike digital invites, printed invitations stand out and feel more personal.

Promote Your Brand with High-Quality Printing Services

The quality of your printed event materials says a lot about your brand. Smudged ink or thin paper can reflect poorly on your organization. That’s why it’s important to work with a printing company that offers professional-grade printing services, including high-resolution prints, premium paper stocks, and accurate color matching.

Plan Ahead for the Best Results

Timing is everything when it comes to effective marketing. To ensure everything is ready for your event, work with your printer early. You’ll want to allow time for design, proofing, printing, and shipping (or delivery). A reliable printing partner can also help you identify any materials you may have missed.

Ready to Print for Your Next Event?

At Inkwell Printing Company, we specialize in event materials for businesses, nonprofits, and organizations of all sizes. From banners and brochures to direct mail campaigns and branded folders, our team offers fast, reliable printing services to help you make your next event a success.

Need help getting started? Contact us today to talk about your event needs or request a custom quote.

Contact us with any of your printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com

When it comes to marketing your business or nonprofit, brochure printing remains one of the most effective tools for making a lasting impression. A well-designed brochure isn’t just a handout, it’s a mini sales pitch, a brand ambassador, and a trusted reference all rolled into one.

Whether you’re promoting a new service, an upcoming fundraiser, or your organization as a whole, your brochure should do more than look good. It should inform, persuade, and inspire action.

At Inkwell Printing, we’ve helped hundreds of businesses and nonprofits across St. Louis bring their print materials to life. Here are some practical tips to help you design a brochure that converts.

1. Define Your Goal First

Before diving into colors, fonts, or layout, ask yourself: What do I want this brochure to achieve? Are you trying to generate leads? Raise awareness? Drive event registrations? Knowing your goal will shape every design decision.

For example:

• A nonprofit might use brochures to tell a compelling story that inspires donations.
• A small business might want to showcase new services or introduce its brand to a new neighborhood.

Your goal should guide the layout, headline, imagery, and call-to-action (CTA).

2. Keep It Focused and Easy to Read

Many brochures fail because they try to do too much. Avoid cramming in every detail about your company. Instead, focus on the most important message you want the reader to remember.

Use short paragraphs, bullet points, and bold headings to guide the reader. Keep the language clear and direct. Your brochure should be easy to skim, while still delivering key information.

And don’t forget white space. A clean layout helps people absorb your message without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Make the Call-to-Action Clear

Every brochure should have a strong CTA that tells the reader what to do next. Whether it’s “Call us for a free estimate,” “Visit our website,” or “Join our next event,” the CTA should be easy to find and aligned with your overall goal.

Bonus tip: Repeat your CTA in more than one spot—on the back panel, near your contact info, and within the body if possible.

4. Use High-Quality Images and Graphics

Poor-quality visuals can cheapen your brand. Invest in professional photos or use high-resolution images that reflect your message. If you’re a nonprofit, use emotional imagery that connects with your audience. If you’re a business, show your product or service in action.

Pair these visuals with a consistent color scheme and font selection that aligns with your branding. A professional graphic designer can help pull it all together.

5. Choose the Right Brochure Type

Not all brochures are created equal. Depending on your content and how you plan to distribute it, you might choose from:

• Tri-fold: Great for service overviews and compact messaging.
• Gate fold: Ideal for high-impact visuals and storytelling.
• Z-fold or accordion fold: Perfect for step-by-step instructions or timelines.
• Half-fold: A classic choice for menus, programs, or detailed product info.

Choosing the right fold can elevate how your message is received.

6. Pair Your Brochure with Mailing Services

One of the best ways to get your brochure in front of the right audience is through direct mail. Whether you’re targeting local neighborhoods or specific donor lists, direct mail allows you to deliver your brochure straight into someone’s hands, without fighting for attention online.

At Inkwell Printing, we offer full mailing services to help you streamline this process. From list management to addressing and postage, we handle the details so you can focus on results.

7. Don’t Forget Print Quality

A beautiful design deserves high-quality printing. Glossy finishes, premium paper stocks, and vibrant colors can make your brochure stand out. More importantly, they signal to your audience that your organization is professional and trustworthy.

With our full-service printing services, we ensure your brochures are produced with precision and care, from first proof to final delivery.

Final Thoughts

Brochure printing isn’t just about putting ink on paper, it’s about creating a tangible tool that represents your mission, your services, and your story. Whether you’re a small business looking to attract new customers or a nonprofit hoping to inspire community support, a well-designed brochure can make all the difference.

Need help getting started? Reach out to Inkwell Printing for expert guidance, custom design, and reliable printing and mailing services that get your message in the right hands.

 

Contact us with any of your brochure printing needs!

For more helpful information check out our blog at: /advice-from-the-printer/

And for more information on Inkwell Printing Company check out our website at: www.inkwellstl.com