Should You Add Color to Your Envelopes?

If there are two envelopes on the counter, one in color and one in plain white, which one will you look at first? The one in color, of course. There are many statistics on the value of color in marketing, including mailing envelopes. But our own experience is often the most powerful evidence of all. We know what a powerful motivator color can be.

Let’s look at five ways you can use color in your mailing envelopes to increase the chances that your envelope will get opened and your marketing communications read.

1. Use Bold and Bright Colored Envelopes

Bright, bold colors like red, orange, and yellow are naturally eye-catching and can make your envelope stand out in a stack of mail. For example, a bank sending a promotional offer might use a bright yellow envelope to attract immediate attention and convey a sense of urgency. According to the Direct Marketing Association, colorful envelopes can increase response rates by up to 20%.

2. Add Custom Designs and Patterns

Unique designs or patterns, such as stripes, polka dots, or seasonal themes, make the envelope visually appealing and intriguing. For example, consider adding a seasonal-themed pattern for your next seasonal sale to evoke curiosity and a festive spirit.

3. Incorporate Branding Elements

Using your brand’s colors, logo, and tagline can make the envelope recognizable and reinforce brand identity. It can also build brand consistency and trust.

4. Utilize Full-Bleed Printing

Full-bleed printing, where the color or design extends to the edges of the envelope, adds color, and creates a polished and professional look. For example, a travel agency could use full-bleed printing to feature a white sandy beach with sapphire blue water and white-crested waves and a beach chair with the recipients’ name printed on it. Imagine the impact of that in the recipient’s mailbox!

5. Add a QR code

Consider adding a QR code to your envelope. QR codes are generally added to the interior letter, but why not put it on the outside of the envelope instead? Print it in color or add a full-color logo in the center. (This is quickly done in most QR code generation programs.)

Adding color to the outside of your envelopes doesn’t have to break the bank. It adds only incrementally to the cost, which can significantly increase the open rate and ultimately lead to higher engagement and response rates. Why not give it a try?