Invitation vs Flat paper sheet

[SBS]

Hi,

What's the difference between the invitation card and the flat paper sheet? Both have a version of: Semi-Gloss, 12.5 pt thickness / 110 lb weight, Bright white, semi-gloss finish. The only difference I see is 0.5 inches in size (the cheaper is larger). Why would a customer choose the $2.35 version instead of the $0.55?

[Fiorenzo · Accepted solution]

Because customers don't know about this little secret, and designers use the cards for their invitations. That being said, the invitation cards have way more paper, size, and shape options, which is very important for invitations, IMO. Plus the cards are way more often available at high discounts of 40 or 50%. The paper sheets are primarily intended to be used for flyers and stationery paper (that's also how I use them), and for that use, the pricing is appropriate. Perhaps the 110lb semi-gloss paper sounds heavy to some, but be aware, that it is not that sturdy at US letter size, just a bit heavier which can be useful for brochures.

[SBS]

Thanks!

[CreativeLeahG]

About 3yrs ago I did some research into their various paper types and made this observation. I then founded the 'BUDGET' invitation range on Zazzle to meet the needs of my budget brides . At that time envelopes were not available, but due to the demand, they have since been added which is wonderful. There are downsides re size and the sheets do not quite' fit' the envelopes. But as a budget alternative it is good. I wrote this article in 2020 to help my budget brides source envelopes and learn about the different paper weights/types. You may find it helpful.

How To Find The Envelope Size For My ZAZZLE Invitations - Budget Range by LeahG 

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[Cat]

The other issue is that anything designed on that 5.5x8.5 inch size comes with an A10 sized envelope, which will cost a lot more to mail than a standard sized invite. Here's what Zazzle's description says about it:

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Please note that the optional envelopes for this size of paper are larger than standard sized envelopes (they are A10 envelopes, which are 6" x 9.5"). The US Postal Service classifies them as Large Envelopes which will require significantly more postage to mail than standard envelopes.

[CreativeLeahG]

I wonder why they do that when A9 is the envelope size for this? 

• For 5.5" x 8.5" invitations A9 size envelopes are ideal at 5.75" x 8.75".
•  How To Find The Envelope Size For My ZAZZLE Invitations - Budget Range by LeahG 

[Cat]

@CreativeLeahG I don't know. I assumed that they were using an A9 too until I read the description.

[CreativeLeahG]

I will flag as possible error

@Scott 

Please note for some reason A10 sized envelopes are accompanying the A9 sized 'sheets' as opposed to A9 envelopes. Is this a mistake?