How Much Does Paperless Post Really Cost? Decoding the Digital Invitation Landscape

So, you’re eyeing Paperless Post for your next event, drawn in by their elegant designs and eco-friendly approach. But the big question lingers: how much does Paperless Post cost? The short answer: it varies significantly. You can use Paperless Post for free, spend a modest amount on a few premium designs, or invest hundreds depending on your needs. The pricing hinges on several factors: the specific design you choose, the number of recipients on your guest list, and whether you opt for any premium add-ons. Let’s break down the costs so you can make an informed decision.

Understanding Paperless Post’s Pricing Structure

Paperless Post doesn’t operate with fixed monthly or annual subscriptions in the traditional sense. Instead, they use a credit-based system. You purchase “Coins,” their virtual currency, and then use these coins to “pay” for your invitations, cards, or flyers. Think of it like buying tokens at an arcade; the more tokens you have, the more games (or in this case, invitations) you can play.

The Coin System Explained

The cost of each invitation is determined by several factors, including:

• Design: Basic designs are often cheaper, while premium designs created by exclusive designers like Kate Spade or Oscar de la Renta command a higher coin value.
• Embellishments: Adding premium features like custom backgrounds, envelope liners, or elaborate animations will increase the coin cost per invitation.
• Recipient Quantity: The more recipients you send your invitation to, the more coins you’ll need.
• Card Type: Save the Dates, invitations, thank you cards, and announcements all differ in complexity and features, which can affect the cost.

Free Options and Trial Periods

Paperless Post offers a selection of free designs that allow you to experiment with the platform without spending any money. These free designs often feature basic templates and limited customization options. This is a great way to get a feel for the platform and its user interface. Additionally, they sometimes offer trial periods or promotional credits to new users, providing an opportunity to explore premium features before committing to a purchase. Keep an eye out for these deals!

Purchasing Coins: Packages and Pricing Tiers

You can buy coins in various packages, typically ranging from smaller bundles for smaller events to larger packages designed for weddings or corporate gatherings. The price per coin generally decreases as you purchase larger packages, incentivizing users to buy in bulk.

Here’s a general idea of coin package pricing (note: these prices are subject to change, so always check the Paperless Post website for the most current information):

• Small Package: Might cost around $20 and yield a certain number of coins.
• Medium Package: Could be priced around $50 and offer a better value per coin than the small package.
• Large Package: Intended for significant events, this package might cost around $100 or more, with the most favorable coin-to-dollar ratio.

Real-World Cost Examples

Let’s illustrate with a few scenarios:

• Birthday Party (50 Guests, Basic Design): Using a simple, free design, you might only need to purchase a small coin package to cover the recipient fees. The total cost could be in the $20-$30 range.
• Wedding Invitation (150 Guests, Premium Design): Opting for a designer template with custom embellishments could easily require a larger coin package. The total cost could range from $100 to $300 or even higher, depending on your selections.
• Corporate Announcement (500 Recipients, Simple Flyer): Depending on the flyer design and any added branding elements, the cost could fall somewhere between $50 and $150.

Beyond Invitations: Other Potential Costs

While invitations are the core offering, Paperless Post also provides other features that can add to your overall expense:

• Flyers: While often cheaper than traditional invitations, flyers still require coins to send. The cost will depend on the design, number of recipients, and any added features.
• Premium Design Elements: Custom fonts, envelope liners, background patterns, and interactive elements like photo galleries all add to the coin cost per invitation.
• Tracking and Analytics: While basic tracking features are often included, advanced analytics that provide detailed insights into recipient engagement might require additional coins or a higher-tier package.
• Physical Cards (Paper Source): Paperless Post partners with Paper Source to offer physical versions of some of their designs. Ordering physical cards involves separate printing and shipping costs.
• RSVP Tracking and Management: While basic RSVP tracking is often included, more sophisticated features, such as managing dietary requirements or assigning seating charts, may be premium add-ons.

Is Paperless Post Worth The Cost?

Ultimately, whether Paperless Post is “worth it” depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the following:

• Budget: Carefully assess your event budget and determine how much you’re willing to spend on invitations.
• Design Preferences: If you prioritize high-end, customizable designs, Paperless Post might be a worthwhile investment.
• Environmental Impact: If you’re committed to reducing your carbon footprint, Paperless Post offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper invitations.
• Time Savings: Paperless Post can save you significant time compared to designing, printing, and mailing physical invitations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Paperless Post Costs

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further clarify Paperless Post’s pricing and features:

1. Are there hidden fees associated with Paperless Post?

Generally, no. The coin system is transparent, and you’ll see the coin cost before sending out your invitations. However, be mindful of premium add-ons that can increase the price per invitation. Always double-check the final coin cost before confirming your send.

2. Can I send Paperless Post invitations to international recipients?

Yes, you can send invitations worldwide. The cost is the same regardless of the recipient’s location.

3. Do coins expire?

Yes, coins do expire! Be sure to check the expiration date when purchasing a coin package to avoid losing your investment. Typically, expiration dates are far enough out to use for upcoming events but be mindful!

4. Can I get a refund for unused coins?

Refund policies vary, so it’s best to consult Paperless Post’s terms of service or contact their customer support for specific information regarding refunds for unused coins. Generally, refunds are not typically offered for unused coins.

5. Is it cheaper to use Paperless Post than traditional paper invitations?

In many cases, yes. When you factor in the cost of paper, printing, envelopes, postage, and the time spent assembling and mailing invitations, Paperless Post can be a more cost-effective option, especially for larger events. However, for very small, simple events, DIY paper invitations might be cheaper.

6. Can I customize the RSVP options on Paperless Post?

Yes, you can customize RSVP options to include various questions, meal choices, and other relevant information for your event. Some advanced RSVP features might require coins.

7. What payment methods does Paperless Post accept?

Paperless Post typically accepts major credit cards and debit cards. They may also offer payment options through platforms like PayPal.

8. Are there any discounts or promotions available for Paperless Post?

Paperless Post frequently offers discounts and promotions, especially around holidays or special occasions. Sign up for their email newsletter to stay informed about these deals.

9. Can I upload my own designs to Paperless Post?

While you can’t directly upload fully designed files, you can customize existing templates with your own photos and text.

10. How does Paperless Post handle privacy and data security?

Paperless Post takes privacy and data security seriously. They use industry-standard encryption to protect your data and comply with relevant privacy regulations. Review their privacy policy for detailed information.

11. What if I need help with my Paperless Post order?

Paperless Post offers customer support through email and a comprehensive help center.

12. Is there a Paperless Post app?

Yes, Paperless Post has a mobile app for both iOS and Android devices, allowing you to manage your events and invitations on the go.