Marketing

Trade shows and local events move fast. People walk by, glance for two seconds, and decide whether to stop or keep going.

That means your print materials have one job.
Grab attention quickly and make it easy to remember you later.

Small businesses and nonprofits often show up with great people and a nice table, but weak print pieces. A few blurry flyers or a last minute banner can make a solid brand look unprepared.

The good news is simple. With the right mix of printed materials, your booth can look polished, trustworthy, and worth stopping at.

Here is a practical breakdown of the print pieces that actually work at trade shows and events, plus when to use each one.

Start with signage that stops traffic

Before anyone reads a brochure, they have to notice you.

That is where large format pieces come in.

Banners and retractable banner stands

These are your first impressions at trade shows. Think of them as billboards for your booth.

Use them to show:
• your logo
• one clear headline
• what you do
• a simple call to action

Do not overload them with text. People should understand your business in three seconds or less.

Retractable banner stands are especially popular because they are easy to transport and set up. They also give smaller booths a more professional look without much effort.

Give people something they can take home

If someone stops to talk, you need a leave behind piece. Something that goes into their bag and reminds them to follow up later.

Brochures

Brochures are perfect when you have a service that needs explanation.

Use them for:
• service lists
• pricing tiers
• case studies
• nonprofit programs
• before and after examples

Tri fold brochures are easy to carry and give you room to tell a short story without overwhelming the reader.

If you work with nonprofits or service based businesses, brochures often perform better than a single sheet because they feel more substantial and trustworthy.

Flyers or one sheets

Flyers are simple and affordable. They are great when you want volume.

Use flyers when:
• you are promoting one offer
• you have a limited time event
• you want to hand out hundreds quickly
• you are driving traffic to a website or QR code

They are also ideal for smaller budgets or community events where you expect a lot of casual foot traffic.

Keep the design bold and focused. One headline, one offer, one action.

Do not forget the small details

The little things often make the biggest difference.

Business cards

Yes, they still matter.

Even in a digital world, business cards are fast, personal, and easy. A quick exchange feels more natural than typing contact info into a phone while standing in a busy aisle.

Use thicker stock or a soft touch finish if you want to stand out. A quality card signals a quality business.

Table covers and branded displays

A printed table cover with your logo instantly upgrades your booth. It hides boxes and clutter while reinforcing your brand.

Pair that with small signs or tabletop displays and your space looks cohesive and professional.

Make it easy to follow up

The real goal of an event is not just conversations. It is follow up.

Your print should help people take the next step.

Include:
• QR codes
• short URLs
• special event offers
• coupon codes
• clear contact info

The easier you make it, the more responses you will get later.

A great direct mail or postcard follow up campaign after the trade shows can also reinforce the connection. This is where mailing services and targeted print marketing can really multiply your results.

A simple starter kit for most booths

If you want a safe, effective setup, start here:

• 1 or 2 retractable banners
  • 250 to 500 brochures or flyers
  • business cards for every team member
  • branded table cover
  • small sign or tabletop display

This combination covers visibility, information, and follow up without overcomplicating things.

Final thoughts

Trade shows are an investment. Booth fees, travel, time away from work. It adds up quickly.

Strong print materials make sure that investment pays off.

Clear signage gets people to stop.
Professional brochures and flyers build trust.
Branded details make you look established.
Take home pieces help you close business later.

When everything works together, your booth does not just look good. It works harder for you.

If you are planning an upcoming event or attending trade shows, partnering with an experienced commercial printing company can save you time, stress, and last minute mistakes while making sure everything matches your brand.

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

Outdated marketing collateral quietly cost small businesses more than almost anything else.

Not in obvious ways like a broken website or a bad ad. It happens slowly. A flyer with last year’s pricing. A brochure that lists services you no longer offer. Business cards with an old phone number. A postcard that feels tired compared to your competitors.

It chips away at trust.

Your print pieces are often the first physical impression someone has of your brand. If they look dated, inconsistent, or worn out, people assume your business might be too.

The good news is that you do not need to redesign everything every few months. You just need a smart refresh schedule.

Here is a simple way to think about when and how often to update your marketing collateral so it always feels current, professional, and effective.

Why updates matter more than most businesses think

Printed materials stick around longer than digital ads. A postcard might sit on a kitchen counter for a week. A brochure might live in someone’s desk for months.

That means old information hangs around too.

Common issues we see all the time:

• Old logos or colors
• Outdated photos
• Services that changed
• Expired offers
• Old team members listed
• Paper that feels thin or cheap compared to competitors

Even small details signal quality. Fresh, well designed print tells customers you pay attention. Sloppy or outdated print tells them you do not.

For nonprofits and small businesses especially, credibility is everything.

A simple update schedule that works

Instead of guessing, use this cadence.

Every 3 to 6 months: light refresh

These are quick, low effort updates that keep things sharp.

Check:

• Contact info
• Pricing
• Dates or seasonal messaging
• Promotions or calls to action
• Inventory of low stock items

This is also a great time to reorder high use pieces like business cards, flyers, and postcards before you run out. Small tweaks during reprints cost almost nothing but keep everything current.

Once a year: design review

At least once a year, step back and look at everything together.

Lay it out on a table:

• Brochures
• Flyers
• Direct mail pieces
• Event signage
• Sales sheets
• Envelopes
• Business cards

Ask yourself:

• Does everything look like the same brand?
• Are colors consistent?
• Does it feel modern or dated?
• Does the messaging still match what we actually sell or offer?

If something feels even a little old, your customers probably notice it too.

A yearly design refresh is often enough to keep things looking current without a full rebrand.

Every 2 to 3 years: major update

This is when you consider bigger changes.

Things like:

• New photography
• Updated layouts
• Heavier or higher quality paper stocks
• New messaging strategy
• Reworked brochures or mailers
• Brand polish or repositioning

Print trends change just like web design trends. What looked modern three years ago can feel stale today.

A larger refresh every few years keeps your business from feeling stuck in the past.

Signs it is time to update sooner

Sometimes you should not wait for the schedule.

Update immediately if you:

• Change your logo or colors
• Add or remove key services
• Rebrand or reposition
• Target a new audience
• Notice declining response rates
• Feel embarrassed handing something out

That last one is important. If you hesitate to give someone your brochure, it is time.

Don’t forget paper and finish

Updates are not just about design.

Paper stock, coatings, and finishes make a big difference in how professional you look.

For example:

• Thicker business cards feel more premium
• Matte finishes feel modern and clean
• Gloss can make photos pop for postcards
• Softer stocks work well for nonprofit appeals

A small material upgrade often makes a bigger impression than a full redesign.

Keep it simple with a print partner

Trying to track all this yourself gets messy fast.

Working with a commercial printer who already understands your brand makes updates easier. Files stay organized. Colors stay consistent. Reorders are faster. Small changes are painless.

At Inkwell Printing Company, we see a lot of small businesses and nonprofits wait too long, then end up rushing a full redesign before a big campaign or event. A steady refresh plan is cheaper, less stressful, and produces better results.

Final takeaway

You do not need constant redesigns. You just need consistency.

Think:

• quick checks every few months
• small refresh once a year
• bigger updates every few years

Your marketing collateral should always feel like it belongs to a business that is active, current, and paying attention.

Because when your marketing looks sharp, people assume your service is too.

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

 

The start of a new year is often filled with fresh ideas, new budgets, and big marketing goals. But before launching new campaigns, one of the smartest moves a business or nonprofit can make is looking backward. Your direct mail results from last year hold valuable insights that can shape stronger, more effective strategies in the year ahead.

Too often, organizations treat each year as a clean slate and repeat the same mistakes or miss opportunities that were clearly visible in past data. Taking time to review what worked and what did not allows you to plan smarter, spend more efficiently, and improve response rates moving forward.

Start With Response Rates, Not Just Volume

A common mistake is focusing only on how much mail was sent rather than how it performed. Sending more postcards or letters does not automatically mean better results.

Review each major mailing from last year and look at response rates. This includes phone calls, form submissions, donations, coupon redemptions, or any other action you tracked. Compare campaigns side by side. You may find that a smaller, well targeted mailing outperformed a larger, more expensive one.

These insights help guide decisions about list size, frequency, and targeting for the new year.

Evaluate Your Mailing Lists Carefully

Your mailing list quality often matters more than design or print format. Last year’s results can reveal which lists were worth the investment and which ones fell short.

Look for patterns such as:

• Higher response rates from repeat customers or donors
• Strong performance from geographically targeted lists
• Lower engagement from purchased or outdated lists

January is an ideal time to clean up mailing lists, remove duplicates, update addresses, and refocus on audiences that actually responded. Better lists lead to lower postage waste and higher returns throughout the year.

Identify Which Formats Performed Best

Not all print pieces are created equal. Last year’s data can tell you which formats resonated most with your audience.

Compare postcards, letters, brochures, and self mailers. Did short, simple postcards outperform longer letters? Did personalized letters generate more donations for your nonprofit? Did certain sizes or formats consistently perform better?

Use these findings to guide format decisions for upcoming campaigns rather than guessing or defaulting to what you have always done.

Review Messaging and Offers

The words and offers you used last year matter just as much as the format. Review the messaging from your best performing campaigns.

Pay attention to:

• Clear calls to action
• Time sensitive offers
• Emotional messaging versus informational messaging
• Personalization such as names or local references

If certain messages consistently drove action, build on them instead of reinventing the wheel. On the other hand, messaging that underperformed may need to be revised or retired altogether.

Look at Timing and Frequency

Timing can have a significant impact on mail performance. Review when campaigns were sent and how they aligned with results.

You may discover that certain months consistently outperformed others or that mailing too frequently caused engagement to drop. This insight can help you build a more realistic and effective mailing schedule for the year ahead.

For nonprofits, year end mail often performs well, but that does not mean January and spring campaigns should be ignored. For small businesses, seasonal promotions may be more effective than year round messaging.

Turn Insights Into a Clear Plan

The most important step is turning last year’s mail results into action. Use what you learned to build a print and mailing strategy that includes:

• Targeted mailing lists
• Proven formats
• Refined messaging
• Smarter timing
• A realistic budget based on performance, not assumptions

This approach leads to better results and fewer wasted dollars, especially for organizations working with tight budgets.

Start the New Year With Confidence

Direct mail works best when it is intentional. Reviewing last year’s performance gives you clarity and confidence as you plan ahead. Instead of guessing what might work, you are building on real data from your own audience.

A strong new year strategy does not start with a brand new idea. It starts with understanding what already worked and improving it.

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

January is a reset for many businesses and nonprofits. New budgets. New goals. New campaigns. It is also the best time of year to clean up your mailing list before wasted postage, printing errors, and poor targeting quietly drain your marketing budget.

Mailing list cleanup is not exciting, but it is one of the most cost effective steps you can take to improve direct mail performance for the entire year. Whether you send postcards, donor appeals, newsletters, or event invitations, the quality of your list directly affects your results.

Here is why January is the ideal time to do it and how it pays off long term.

The Holidays Create Mailing List Problems

Between November and December, mailing lists take a beating. People move, addresses change, and businesses close. Many organizations add new contacts quickly during year end campaigns without proper verification.

By January, most mailing lists contain:

• Undeliverable addresses
• Duplicate records
• Outdated donor or customer information
• Contacts who no longer engage

Cleaning your list now prevents these issues from carrying into every campaign you run this year.

You Catch Errors Before They Cost You Money

Every bad address costs you twice. You pay to print it and you pay to mail it. Multiply that by hundreds or thousands of records and the waste adds up fast.

January is typically a slower mailing month, which makes it the best time to:

• Remove duplicates
• Fix formatting issues
• Standardize address fields
• Identify missing apartment or suite numbers

When your first major campaign hits in late winter or early spring, your list is already working for you instead of against you.

Better Lists Mean Better Targeting

Cleaning your mailing list is not just about removing bad addresses. It is also about improving segmentation.

January is the perfect time to:

• Separate donors by giving history
• Group customers by service type or location
• Flag lapsed contacts
• Create priority segments for upcoming campaigns

This allows you to send more relevant mail pieces, which improves response rates and makes your printing budget work harder.

USPS Accuracy Matters More Than Ever

Postal regulations and address validation standards continue to tighten. Running your list through proper address verification helps:

• Reduce returned mail
• Improve delivery speed
• Qualify for bulk mailing discounts
• Avoid preventable USPS issues

Taking care of this in January sets you up for smoother mailing all year long.

It Sets the Tone for the Year

Starting the year with a clean mailing list sends a clear message internally. You are taking your marketing seriously. You are planning ahead. You are not reacting at the last minute.

This mindset leads to:

• Fewer rush print jobs
• More consistent campaigns
• Better tracking and reporting
• Stronger results over time

How to Get Started

If you are not sure where to begin, start simple:

1. Export your current list
2. Remove obvious duplicates
3. Update known address changes
4. Run the list through address verification
5. Identify segments for upcoming campaigns

If you work with a professional printing and mailing partner, they can often help identify issues you may not catch on your own.

Final Thought

January is not just a fresh start on the calendar. It is a strategic opportunity to eliminate waste, improve results, and build a stronger foundation for every mail campaign that follows.

A clean mailing list is not busy work. It is one of the smartest marketing decisions you can make at the start of the year.

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 reaching local customers, nothing leaves an impression quite like a well-designed printed piece. While digital ads can vanish with a swipe, printed materials stay in hands, offices, and homes long after they’re delivered. For small and medium-sized businesses, investing in high-quality print collateral can create a deeper connection that digital marketing simply can’t match.

 

1. Tangibility Builds Trust

There’s something powerful about holding a brochure, postcard, or business card. Physical materials feel real, and that physical connection builds credibility. When a potential customer receives a printed piece from a local business, it signals permanence and professionalism. It tells them, “We’re here, and we care enough to invest in our image.”

A sturdy paper stock, vibrant color, and professional finish go a long way toward influencing first impressions. Customers often keep these materials on their desks or refrigerators, creating multiple touchpoints without another ad spend.

2. Local Targeting That Works

Digital platforms can reach massive audiences, but they often miss the mark locally. Print marketing, especially direct mail, lets you reach people right in your neighborhood. With services like Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM), you can target specific ZIP codes, income ranges, or neighborhoods.

That means your message isn’t just showing up randomly online; it’s landing directly in the homes of the people most likely to walk through your doors. When executed with professional design and printing, local mailers consistently outperform online ads for generating real-world engagement.

3. Fewer Distractions, More Attention

Think about how people scroll online: dozens of ads compete for attention, notifications pop up, and focus fades fast. Printed materials have no competition for attention in that moment. When a customer picks up your postcard or reads your brochure, your message is the only one in front of them.

High-quality print collateral encourages people to pause, look, and engage without the noise of the internet. That level of focus is rare and valuable.

4. Print Collateral Strengthens Brand Recognition

Consistency across all marketing channels matters, but print gives your brand a tactile anchor. The same logo, colors, and typography used in your flyers, business cards, and banners reinforce brand recognition. Each printed piece becomes a physical reminder of your business, extending the reach of your online efforts.

Customers who see your brand in print are more likely to remember it later when they’re browsing online or ready to buy. The two channels can work together, but print often makes the first and most lasting impression.

5. Longer Shelf Life and Higher Credibility

Digital ads disappear in seconds. Printed materials can last for weeks or even months. A brochure can sit on a counter until a customer is ready to take action. A well-made postcard might get passed to a friend.

In a world full of fleeting impressions, print feels trustworthy. It’s harder to fake quality when it’s on paper, and that authenticity helps small businesses stand apart from competitors that rely only on low-cost digital ads.

6. The Value of Professional Printing

Quality matters. Professional printing ensures crisp images, true-to-brand colors, and durable finishes that represent your business the right way. At Inkwell Printing Company, we help local businesses choose materials, paper weights, and finishes that enhance their message while staying within budget.

From glossy postcards that catch the eye to matte brochures that feel refined, the right print choices elevate your brand and increase response rates. When paired with targeted mailing services, print campaigns become one of the most efficient and trustworthy ways to reach your community.

Final Thoughts

Digital marketing is fast, measurable, and necessary but it can’t replace the personal, lasting impression of print. High-quality print collateral makes your brand tangible, trustworthy, and memorable. For small and medium-sized businesses looking to make an impact locally, professional printing isn’t a thing of the past. It’s your most effective advantage.

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

Choosing the right mailing list is one of the most important steps in building a successful direct mail campaign. Even the best-designed postcards or brochures won’t bring results if they aren’t reaching the right audience. Whether you’re a nonprofit looking to increase donations or a small business trying to attract new customers, the list you choose determines how effective your mailing will be.

Why the Mailing List Matters

Your mailing list is the foundation of your campaign. It defines who will see your message, how many people will receive it, and what kind of results you can expect. A carefully targeted list ensures your materials are landing in the hands of people who are most likely to respond. On the other hand, a poorly chosen list leads to wasted printing and postage costs.

Types of Mailing Lists

There are several types of mailing lists to consider, and each one has its own strengths:

1. House Lists
   These are lists you build internally, often made up of past donors, customers, or people who have expressed interest in your organization. House lists usually perform the best since they reach people who already have a connection with you.
2. Response Lists
   These lists are made up of people who have responded to similar offers in the past. For nonprofits, that could mean people who have donated to similar causes. For small businesses, it could include buyers of products in your industry.
3. Compiled Lists
   These lists are created from public records, surveys, and other data sources. They can be segmented by demographics, geography, or lifestyle factors. While not as strong as house or response lists, compiled lists are often the most affordable and can help you reach new audiences.

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting a mailing list, think about these important factors:

• Audience Fit: Does the list match the demographics, interests, and needs of your ideal customer or donor?
• Geography: For local businesses and nonprofits, targeting by zip code or neighborhood helps you focus on people nearby.
• List Quality: Ask how often the list is updated. An outdated list with bad addresses can drive up your costs.
• Quantity vs. Quality: A smaller, well-targeted list will usually perform better than sending thousands of pieces to an unfocused group.

Using EDDM as an Option

Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) is another way to target households without needing a purchased list. With EDDM, your mailers go to every address in a chosen postal route. This option is great for local restaurants, retail shops, and community-based nonprofits that want to saturate a specific area.

Partnering with a Printing Company

Working with a printing company that also offers mailing services makes the process smoother. At Inkwell Printing Company, we help nonprofits and small businesses not only design and print their materials, but also choose the right mailing list for them. This ensures your campaign is both cost-effective and results-driven.

Final Thoughts

Your message is only as strong as the list you send it to. By taking the time to choose the right mailing list, you can stretch your marketing dollars further and see better results. Whether you rely on a house list, purchase a targeted list, or use EDDM, the key is making sure your mail reaches the people who matter most.

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 planning an event, one of the biggest challenges is making sure people actually show up. Whether you are organizing a nonprofit fundraiser, a community gathering, or a product launch, getting attendees through the door is essential to success. While digital marketing plays a role, printed materials remain one of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to increase turnout.

Why Print Works for Events

Printed materials stand out because they are tangible and personal. A flyer handed to someone, a postcard arriving in the mail, or a brochure available at a local business keeps your event top-of-mind in ways that digital reminders cannot always match. Print also reaches audiences who may not be active online, ensuring no potential guest is overlooked.

Flyers: Quick Impact and Wide Reach

Flyers are one of the most versatile tools for promoting events. They can be posted in community centers, distributed in local businesses, or handed out at busy intersections. Effective flyer printing combines bold headlines, eye-catching graphics, and clear event details. Nonprofits often see strong results by including a compelling image or short testimonial, while small businesses can benefit from highlighting exclusive offers tied to the event.

Postcards: Personal and Memorable

Postcard marketing is another powerful way to boost attendance. Delivered directly into mailboxes, postcards create a personal connection and are often saved on refrigerators or bulletin boards as reminders. They are cost-effective to print and mail, especially when using Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) to target local neighborhoods. Including a QR code or special RSVP link gives recipients an easy way to respond immediately.

Brochures: Inform and Engage

For events that require more details, brochure printing provides space to share schedules, speaker bios, or sponsorship opportunities. A well-designed brochure not only informs but also builds excitement. Nonprofits can use brochures to show the impact of past fundraisers, while businesses can highlight the value attendees will gain from coming to the event.

The Power of Direct Mail

Direct mail campaigns remain a cornerstone of event promotion. A coordinated mailing schedule leading up to the event builds anticipation and keeps your message in front of your audience. Start with a save-the-date postcard, follow up with a flyer or brochure, and close with a final reminder mailer a week before the event. This layered approach ensures your event does not get forgotten in a busy schedule.

Tips for Successful Print Campaigns

1. Plan early – Printing and mailing take time, so build in a buffer to ensure everything arrives on schedule.
2. Keep design simple – Use bold fonts, clear layouts, and avoid overcrowding the page.
3. Use a call to action – Encourage readers to RSVP, buy tickets, or scan a QR code.
4. Leverage partnerships – Place flyers in local shops, gyms, or cafes to expand your reach.
5. Match your print to your audience – Use high-quality paper for gala invitations, or simple postcards for community events.

Bringing It All Together

When done right, printed materials create a powerful connection with your audience and give your event the visibility it needs. Nonprofits can raise more awareness for fundraisers, and small businesses can ensure higher attendance at product launches or community events. By combining flyer printing, postcard marketing, brochure printing, and direct mail, you can maximize turnout and make your event a success.

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 that gets noticed, business postcards are one of the most reliable print tools available. Unlike emails that often end up in spam folders or digital ads that disappear with a scroll, postcards put your message directly into a customer’s hands. They are affordable, versatile, and effective for businesses of every size. If you want to maximize results with postcard marketing, it is important to understand postcard sizes, design styles, and strategies that work.

Choosing the Right Size

The first step in a successful postcard campaign is selecting the right size. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a variety of options, and the size you choose can impact both cost and visibility.

• Standard Postcards (4″ x 6″)
  These are the most cost-effective and are eligible for the lowest postage rates. They are great for simple announcements or special offers.
• Large Postcards (5″ x 7″ or 6″ x 9″)
  Larger sizes give you more design space and are more noticeable in a stack of mail. They are a popular choice for promoting new products or seasonal sales.
• Oversized Postcards (6″ x 11″)
  Oversized postcards stand out the most and are highly effective for major campaigns. While they cost more to mail, their visibility often leads to stronger response rates.

Pairing your message with the right size can make the difference between being overlooked or being read.

Designing a Postcard That Works

The design of your postcard is just as important as the message itself. Clear visuals and concise text will keep recipients engaged. Here are some best practices:

• Prioritize the Headline
  Your headline should be bold, short, and benefit-driven. Think of it as the hook that makes the recipient want to read further.
• Use High-Quality Images
  A professional image or well-designed graphic instantly communicates credibility. Blurry or low-resolution images can weaken your message.
• Keep It Simple
  Too much text can overwhelm readers. Focus on one key message or call to action rather than trying to cover everything at once.
• Include a Call to Action
  Every postcard should guide the reader on what to do next. Whether it’s visiting your website, calling for a quote, or stopping by your store, make it clear and easy to follow.

Strategies for Success

A postcard is only effective if it reaches the right audience at the right time. That is why strategy matters.

• Target the Right Audience
  Use your mailing list wisely. Segment your customers based on demographics, buying history, or location to ensure your postcards reach people most likely to respond.
• Take Advantage of EDDM
  Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) from USPS allows you to target entire neighborhoods without needing a mailing list. This is especially effective for local businesses looking to increase community visibility.  It also is likely the most cost-effective strategy of any of the lists.
• Track Your Results
  Include a special code, landing page, or phone number on your postcard so you can measure response rates. Tracking helps you improve future campaigns by showing what works best.
• Stay Consistent
  One mailing may bring some results, but consistent campaigns create lasting brand recognition. Repetition builds trust and keeps your business top of mind.

Why Postcards Work

Business postcards remain one of the most cost-effective print marketing tools available. They require no envelope, are easy to read quickly, and can be designed to fit nearly any budget. When combined with professional design and targeted mailing services, postcards have the power to bring in new customers, strengthen loyalty, and drive revenue.

Whether you are promoting a grand opening, sending out seasonal offers, or introducing a new product, postcards can deliver your message clearly and effectively. With the right size, design, and strategy, postcard marketing will continue to be a valuable part of your business growth.

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 local businesses want to get the word out quickly and effectively, few marketing tools work as well as direct mail. One of the most cost-effective and user-friendly options available today is Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM), a program offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). EDDM helps businesses reach every home or business within a specific geographic area, without the need to purchase a mailing list or print individual names and addresses.

If your business is looking to increase visibility in your neighborhood or drive foot traffic to your storefront, EDDM might be one of the simplest ways to do it.

What Is EDDM?

Every Door Direct Mail allows you to target mailing routes rather than individuals. You can select routes by ZIP code and deliver postcards, flyers, or brochures to every mailbox along that route. There’s no need to buy a mailing list or apply individual addresses. Your printed piece is delivered to every address within the area you choose.

It’s ideal for local restaurants, service providers, real estate agents, auto shops, and retail businesses that want to stay top of mind within their communities.

Why Choose EDDM Over Traditional Mailings?

There are several key advantages to choosing EDDM as part of your direct mail marketing strategy:

1. Cost Savings

One of the most appealing aspects of EDDM is the pricing. EDDM offers lower postage rates compared to standard marketing mail, making it an excellent fit for small businesses on a budget. Since there’s no need to rent or buy a list of addresses, you also save on data and list management expenses.

2. Simplicity and Speed

Setting up an EDDM campaign is easy. With the help of a commercial printing partner, you can design your mailer, select your delivery area using the USPS online tool, and have your piece printed, bundled, and prepared for delivery. This means your message gets into mailboxes faster, without complicated logistics or time-consuming data entry.

3. Broad Local Reach

Because EDDM targets every household or business in a selected area, it ensures broad visibility. If you’re opening a new location, running a seasonal promotion, or announcing a limited-time offer, this method makes sure your message reaches your entire community.

4. Flexibility in Design

EDDM supports a variety of formats, especially larger postcards and flyers. That gives you more space to highlight special offers, use bold visuals, and clearly explain your products or services. These larger pieces often stand out in the mailbox and are more likely to be noticed and kept.

5. Better ROI for Local Marketing

Local businesses benefit most when marketing dollars stay focused on the immediate customer base. With EDDM, you’re not spending money to reach people outside your service area. This focus can improve your return on investment, especially when paired with a strong call-to-action and a time-sensitive promotion.

How to Get Started

To begin an EDDM campaign, you’ll need to do three things:

1. Design a Mailer – Work with your commercial printer to create a piece that meets USPS size requirements and stands out visually. Postcards are the most common format, but flyers and folded self-mailers are also popular.
2. Choose a Mailing Area – Use the USPS EDDM Online Tool to select routes based on ZIP code, average income, or household size. You can refine your targeting to match your ideal customer profile.
3. Print and Bundle – Your printer can help prepare the required paperwork, bundle the pieces correctly, and deliver them to the appropriate USPS location for distribution.

Let a Printing Partner Help

While EDDM is relatively simple, there are still USPS requirements to follow, including size guidelines, bundling rules, and documentation. That’s where a professional printing company can make the process seamless. From designing your mailer to preparing your EDDM bundle, working with a printing partner ensures you get it right the first time.

 

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