Custom Postage Stamps Are a Thing of the Past: But Why?

For years, to-be-weds enjoyed making and using custom postage stamps as a sweet little added touch to make their wedding stationery their very own before popping it in the mail to friends and loved ones. Some couples chose monograms or sweet phrases, while others used their favorite snap together—every couple has one—to affix to the corner of their envelopes.

But seemingly overnight, the United States Postal Service put the kibosh on the fun practice of personalized postage stamps. That left many couples wondering why and feeling pretty frustrated. Despite this unfortunate change, that doesn't mean there aren't any fun options when it comes to mailing wedding invitations. Find out how to add a touch of personalization to the outside of your invites. (Pro tip: Use embellishments that complement your stationery from The Knot Invitations.)

In this article:

• Does USPS Still Do Custom Stamps?
• Why Did USPS Discontinue Custom Stamps?
• Can You Still Make Your Own Custom Postage Stamps?
• What to Do Instead of Making Personalized Stamps

Does USPS Still Do Custom Stamps?

In 2004, the USPS decided to allow certain companies to facilitate the making of custom US postage stamps that could be used as actual postage (rather than a decorative addition). Similar to the way you can edit and customize any stationery, these companies allowed couples to create their very own postage stamps. It was a great way to add a personalized touch to wedding envelopes.

But the practice didn't last long. Only 16 years later, on June 16, 2020, the ability to make your own postage stamps was discontinued.

Why Did USPS Discontinue Custom Stamps?

While we weren't able to find any official communication directly from the USPS about their decision, an article from Linn's Stamp News states that the decision was essentially for legal and business reasons.

Jaime Coast, the founder of stationery company Cotton & Bow, says, "The decision was largely made because there were legal issues with people uploading images that they didn't own the trademark rights or copyrights to." But there were likely a number of other reasons as well, including the following:

• Counterfeit postage: Stamps are essentially a type of currency, Coast says. "And when stamps could be created by anyone with a sticker machine and feature any design, how can they spot a fake?"
• Competition: Competing companies were undercutting USPS revenue by making stamps of their own.
• Difficulty regulating images: The USPS had concerns over the use of graphic or inappropriate images on stamps, which was difficult or impossible to keep tabs on.

Can You Still Make Your Own Custom Postage Stamps?

You can no longer create your own custom design postage stamps that count as official currency for mailing envelopes. The practice has been discontinued through all avenues. If you're really married to the idea of cute, custom mailing stamps, Coast advises that you can add a sticker to your envelopes next to the official postage as a cute "faux stamp" look. "This is a fun way to add a photo of the two of you or even a pet portrait to personalize the envelope. But the sticker does not act as official postage, so it must be used in addition to a stamp," she says.

What to Do Instead of Making Personalized Stamps

It's totally understandable to be frustrated by the inability to create post office custom stamps. But luckily, there are still lots of ways to dress up your wedding invitations, like custom colors and artwork, wax seals and calligraphy. Coast offers tons of really cool alternatives to consider. Wondering where to buy pretty wedding stamps? Keep reading!

• Use the Post Office's "Love" stamp: This year's "Love" stamp will feature the artistry of Keith Haring, whose simple and adorable designs have become iconic.
• Use the Post Office's wedding stamp: The Post Office still issues several new design options each year with couples in mind. They issue a new wedding stamp every few years, Coast says.
• Check the Post Office's regular designs: In 2025, USPS is releasing a new collection of postage with dahlias on them that will be quite beautiful, says Coast. "I think these will be popular with couples for their invitations and thank you cards." Use them alongside your personalized mailing stamps.
• Add custom art: Couples can design custom mailers and artwork on envelopes to surround official postage. A lot can be done with beautiful watercolor or calligraphy for example, Coast says. "This acts as a personalized touch to brand the space around the postage aesthetically and make it prettier."
• Use a custom envelope: The USPS has a custom envelope option where you can have your return address and stamp design printed on envelopes for you. But it doesn't include the option to customize the stamp design, only to choose from pre-designed stamp options, Coast says.