Graduation announcements are intended to inform family and friends of your graduation from a university or college. The graduation announcement should not be thought of as a request for gifts. Announcements should be sent to those who have a personal interest in important events in your life.

When should announcements be sent?
How should the announcements be addressed?
How should the invitations be assembled?
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When should announcements be sent?

Announcements should be sent via first class mail two weeks before to two weeks after the event. Remember announcements are intended to tell the news of graduation. Many schools limit the number of guests the student can invite to the commencement.

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How should the announcements be addressed?

Outer Envelope (Mailing envelope)

• Legibly write the address by hand in black ink.
• Use full names and formal titles. Do not abbreviate except for Mr., Mrs., Dr., Ms.
• Do not use symbols (for example, do not use the "&" symbol)
• Use figures only for house numbers and zip codes (for example, 273 West Sixth Street).
• Write out the words "Street, Boulevard, Avenue, Trail, Circle, Drive", etc.

Inner Envelope (contains the announcement)

• The inner envelope can be addressed informally. Use the same tone you would in conversation (for example, Grandfather, Jennifer Lawson, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, Jean and Ed).
• Children's names are included only on the inner envelope. (for example, Mr. and Mrs. Johnson, Nicole and Matthew).

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How should the invitations be assembled?

Place the announcement inside the smaller inner envelope with the fold inserted first and the announcement cover facing the envelope flap. Do not seal or tuck the flap inside the envelope.

Insert the smaller inner envelope into the larger outer envelope with the wording of the smaller envelope facing you.

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More Helpful Advice

Send handwritten thank you notes as soon as possible for any gifts received.

Check your announcements carefully for the spelling of your name, degree and any other discrepancies.

If an error is found, please contact our Customer Service Department (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST at 1-877-Balfour (1-877-225-3687).

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