Direct-Mail Primer: How to Get Your Envelope Opened

Use color
The “brown kraft” envelope is still a good choice to use. Because of its deep yellowish color, it conveys importance and officialdom, as it’s akin to a government delivery.

Remember who your audience is
The average donor responding to direct mail is older than 55. If your audience is a conservative mature consumer, you’re probably not going to want to use a hot-pink or strong-color carrier envelope. On the other hand, this might work great if you’re mailing the 20-something crowd.