Every business needs a graphics department.

Always check with the post office when designing a custom postcard, envelope, parcel box, or other mailer!

While designing a brochure for a local non-profit here in Ashland, I found myself in a swamp of postal regulations. One panel of the brochure will be perforated so that potential supporters can detatch it and mail it in. Had I not checked the postal regulations, my client would have ended up with 500 unusable brochures.

The US Postal Service has size requirements for all mail, including postcards, detailing not only the minimum width and height, but even the minimum paper thickness. Not only that, but postcard rates only apply between the minimum and maximum size, and to cards that are within specific ratios of width to height.
It can be extremely difficult to find and wade through the information, so here is the link to the USPS size regulations. Even so, if there is any question in your mind, take a sample to the post office and ask them to take a look at it. You don’t want to pay for design and printing only to find out that your cards are unusable for your purpose.

Business cards are more than just a Rolodex entry. They are a foot in the door with potential customers. They are your most affordable piece of printed marketing. They are a reflection of your business in the eyes of the customers.

Your business card should be attention grabbing, easy to read, and something that people will want to show off … something that people will pick up several of so they can give some to their friends. A good card gets calls. A great card gets passed around.
These four business card designs were each created for maximum impact within the client’s budget. Although all the cards are art related and the layouts are relatively similar, the differences are astounding. The choices of typeface, color, and graphic elements create a unique personality for each.

Your business card shouldn’t just be a piece of paper with your contact information. It should be a design that makes people stop, look, and remember.