Direct Mail Formats: What Gets Opened vs. What Gets Tossed

Design decisions play a critical role in whether a direct mail piece is opened, or ignored entirely. What Gets Opened Handwritten or handwritten-style envelopes These signal importance and create curiosity. Clean, minimal layouts Simple designs feel intentional and credible. Thoughtful format choices Postcards, folded notes, and unique but restrained formats stand out without overwhelming. What […]
What Works in Donor Outreach vs. What Doesn’t

Donor outreach is most effective when it prioritizes relationship-building over transactions. How you communicate matters just as much as how often. What Works Gratitude-forward communication Personalized thank-you notes and acknowledgments strengthen donor loyalty and retention. Storytelling with impact Donors respond to stories that show real outcomes, not just statistics. Integrated outreach strategies Combining direct mail […]
Handwritten Marketing: What Feels Authentic vs. What Feels Automated

Handwritten marketing remains one of the most effective ways to create emotional connection, but not all handwriting is created equal. What Feels Authentic Natural handwriting variation Subtle inconsistencies in letter shapes, spacing, and ink flow reflect real human writing and build trust. Real ink and physical texture Tactile elements matter. When mail feels physically different, […]
How Nonprofits Can Boost Donor Engagement with Handwritten Mail

Why Personalization Matters in Nonprofit Fundraising In a world flooded with emails, social media ads, and printed mail, donors often feel like just another name in a database. Handwritten mail, on the other hand, creates a genuine, personal connection that fosters loyalty, encourages repeat donations, and improves donor retention rates. Unlike automated emails or generic […]