What Makes Print Stand Out in 2026?

Why embellishments are the new Secret Weapon.

The way you hand someone a business card says more than you think. It’s more than contact information—it’s a silent ambassador for your brand. Before a word is spoken, the look and feel of that card communicate quality, confidence, and credibility.

In 2025, print isn’t competing with digital by trying to be louder. It’s winning by being different. Not flat. Not forgettable. But tactile, dimensional, and designed to be remembered.

The Challenge in 2025: Endless Digital Noise

We live in a screen-saturated world. Emails, pop-ups, banner ads, push notifications—attention is pulled in every direction, all the time. As a result, most digital marketing gets ignored in seconds.

That’s precisely why print is resurging. Print feels real. It slows people down. It stays in their hands longer than a swipe or click ever could. But here’s the key truth for 2025:

Basic print isn’t enough anymore.

If you want your materials to stand out and stick, you need to go beyond ink on paper. You need embellishments.

The Psychology of Touch and Shine

People remember what they feel.

A raised logo creates a stronger memory than a flat one. A glossy highlight catches the eye and guides attention. A soft-touch coating instantly signals premium quality—before a single word is read. This isn’t opinion. It’s psychology.

Texture and shine trigger sensory engagement, which increases recall and emotional connection. That’s why embellished print doesn’t just look better—it performs better.

Embellishments: The New Secret Weapon

So what exactly are embellishments? They’re finishing techniques that transform print from ordinary to unforgettable, including:

• Spot UV gloss to highlight specific elements

• Foil stamping that shimmers under light

• Embossing or debossing that adds dimension

• Soft-touch laminate that feels smooth and luxurious

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These aren’t “extras.” They’re strategic tools.

Industry data consistently shows that embellished print commands 2–4x higher margins than standard print. That’s not just a design upgrade—it’s a business advantage.

Where Businesses Are Using Embellishments Right Now

Embellishments are already working across industries for brands that want to stand out:

• Business cards that spark conversation instead of being forgotten

• Postcards that don’t end up in the recycle bin

• Packaging that feels premium before it’s opened

• Holiday cards and event invitations people actually keep

Every printed piece is a touchpoint. Embellishments ensure that the touchpoint makes an impression.

Why 2026 Is the Perfect Time to Invest

This year is all about tangible connection. While digital ads disappear in a scroll, textured and dimensional print demands attention.

Short runs with premium finishes feel:

• Exclusive

• Personal

• Valuable

And compared to the rising cost of digital impressions that never convert, embellished print delivers a stronger ROI with a longer lifespan.

Plain Print Isn’t Enough Anymore

In 2025, plain print blends in. Embellished print stands out.

It gives your brand:

• Stopping power – people notice

• Staying power – people remember

• Selling power – people respond

If you want to experience the difference firsthand, request samples.

📞 Call (303) 688-5692📧 Email castlerock@minutemanpress.com

Once you feel embellished print in your hands, you’ll never look at plain paper the same way again.

5 Steps to a Successful EDDM Postcard Campaign

USPS’s Every Door Direct Mail (EDDM) service makes it easy for small business owners to reach thousands of potential customers without expensive mailing lists or complicated address labels. Your postcards go straight into every mailbox along the routes you select; simple, cost-effective, and powerful.

But here’s the key: success depends on how well you plan and design your campaign. Below, we’ll walk through five essential steps to make sure your postcards don’t just get delivered, but actually get results.

Step 1: Define Your Objectives

Always start by defining your objectives.

Before you design anything, get clear on your goal. Ask yourself:

• Do you want to drive traffic to a new business location?

• Are you promoting a special offer?

• Do you want to boost long-term brand awareness?
  

For example, a restaurant may use postcards to invite neighbors to a grand opening. A real estate agent might highlight recent sales to attract new listings. A salon might send seasonal promotions.

The clearer your goal, the sharper your message will be.

Step 2: Choose the Right Postcard Size & Paper

Postcard size and paper choice play a significant role in how quickly your message gets noticed in the mailbox.

Not all postcard sizes qualify for EDDM. USPS requires them to be at least 10.5” long or 6.125” high.

At Minuteman Press Castle Rock, we offer multiple EDDM-ready options:

• Small formats (4” x 11”) – Great for single-product promos or quick offers.

• Large formats (9” x 12”) – Stand out with multiple images, coupons, or a service menu.

Paper choice also matters:

• Gloss-coated stock: bold colors, vibrant look.

• Matte/recycled stock: soft, eco-friendly, vintage feel.

• Ultra-thick stock: premium feel for high-end brands.

Step 3: Finalize Your Design & Content

Clear design, strong headlines, and a simple call to action help EDDM postcards turn attention into action.

Your postcard needs to catch attention, but also make action easy.

• Keep it simple: Avoid clutter. Use headlines, borders, and bullet points for readability.

• Always include: Business name, address, website, and contact info.

• Track results: Add a coupon code, unique URL, or QR code to measure engagement.
  

Examples of how businesses use EDDM postcards:

• Realtors: Showcase recent sales + listings

• Car dealerships: Highlight seasonal promotions

• Dentists: Remind patients of check-ups

• Gyms: Offer free sessions with postcard exchange

Step 4: Select Routes & Drop Dates

Strategic route selection and well-timed mail drops help your postcards reach the right neighborhoods at the right time.

EDDM lets you target entire neighborhoods without buying lists. With USPS mapping tools, you can filter routes by household count and average income.

• Minimum: 200 postcards per mailing

• DIY Limit: 5,000 mailers per post office per day

• With us: No upper limits — we handle larger campaigns start to finish.
  

Timing matters. Launch when your audience is most receptive:

• Back-to-school → tutoring centers

• Tax season → accountants

• Holiday season → retailers & restaurants

Step 5: Print, Bundle & Deliver

Proper bundling, paperwork, and USPS drop-off ensure your EDDM postcards are delivered without delays.

Once designed, postcards must follow USPS requirements to ensure delivery:

• Bundle stacks of 50–100 postcards (max 6” high per bundle).

• Fill out USPS paperwork.

• Drop off at the right post office.

  
  

At Minuteman Press Castle Rock, we streamline this entire process: printing, bundling, paperwork, and drop-off. You focus on your business, we handle the logistics.

Bonus: Analyze Results & Repeat

Tracking results and refining your approach over time turns EDDM postcards into a repeatable growth strategy.”

The real magic of EDDM comes with repetition. Track what works and refine over time.

• Use limited-time offers to quickly measure response.

• Add QR codes to see how many recipients visit your site.

• Test different designs, offers, or neighborhoods to compare results.

Consistency is key. Your first campaign builds awareness, and repeat mailings reinforce your brand.

Final Word

EDDM postcards are one of the most cost-effective ways to reach local customers. With the right goals, design, and timing, they can deliver a serious boost to your business.

Want results without the hassle? At Minuteman Press Castle Rock, we design, print, and deliver EDDM postcards from start to finish, ensuring your campaign gets noticed and delivers results.

Ready to Mail with a Local Pro?

At Minuteman Press Castle Rock, we combine high-end equipment with community-first service. Let’s bring your ideas to life — with quality you can see and people you can trust.

Get a Quote:👉 Request a Quote   Call Us:📞 303-688-5692

Email Us:✉️ castlerock@minutemanpress.com

How to Choose the Right Print Partner for Specialty Finishes

Put Life in Your Print • Embellish Effect • #03

Because not all printers can pull off premium print.

Ever held a business card with raised gold foil and thought, “Wow”?

That reaction isn’t accidental — it’s crafted.

To achieve that level of impact, specialty finishes like spot UV (a glossy varnish applied to specific areas), soft-touch laminate (a tactile, smooth coating), raised foil (metallic foil elevated above the surface), or embossing (pressing a design into the material for dimension) require more than standard print equipment. These techniques demand precision, timing, and expertise from a printer who truly understands how design, materials, and technique come together to create something exceptional. Choosing the right partner is the first step to stand-out results.

Specialty finishes aren’t decoration — they’re strategy.

These aren’t just decorative choices—they bring texture, shine, and depth that help your brand stand out in a world of flat, digital prints. Whether it’s a raised logo that catches the light or a soft-touch surface that people can’t stop touching, the right finish transforms perception — and makes your brand unforgettable. But how do you find the right partner?

5 Things to Look For in the Right Print Partner

1. Proven Experience with Specialty Finishes

Ask for real samples, not mockups.

A great print partner will proudly showcase projects featuring gloss UV, raised coatings, foil stamping, and textured stocks. If all they can show are flat, digital prints… It’s time to keep looking.

2. Design Support That Understands Production

Even the most beautiful finish can fall flat if the design isn’t prepared correctly.

Your printer should know how to handle spot layers (separate design files for each print effect), bleeds (extra image area beyond the trim line to prevent white edges), and material compatibility — and should guide your designer through the setup.

Bonus points if they have a creative team (like MP Creative+) that can help you plan finishes that enhance your brand, not overpower it.

3. Access to a Network of Specialty Experts

When your project calls for advanced techniques or rare materials, your printer’s network becomes your biggest asset.

At Minuteman Press Castle Rock, we collaborate with trusted trade partners across Minuteman Press International’s network, ensuring you get:

• Professional recommendations

• Consistent quality

• Competitive pricing

  
  

You can count on these advantages every time you print—setting the stage for results that stand above the rest.

4. A Portfolio That Reflects Your Goals

Your print should express your brand — whether that’s luxury, texture, or subtle shine.

Look for a print partner who can demonstrate a variety of finishes, including:

• Raised Spot UV – for bold, high-impact logos

• Soft-Touch Laminate – for a velvety, tactile feel

• Metallic Foil – for elegance and refinement

Each finish creates a unique emotional response.

A skilled printer will help you select the one that aligns perfectly with your audience, tone, and brand personality. Choosing someone with the right experience is critical—but the relationship should go beyond technical skill.

5. Local Partnership and Personalized Service

You can’t get true craftsmanship from an upload button.

Choose a local print partner who takes the time to understand your brand, timeline, and goals. Someone you can talk to, not just email. Print isn’t just a product — it’s a collaboration that benefits from personal, local insight.

The Takeaway

Specialty finishes have the power to turn good print into something unforgettable — but only when they’re executed with skill and care.

Work with a print partner who understands the craft, not just the clicks.

Because in specialty print, details aren’t extra — they’re everything.

The Inside Edge

Specialty printing isn’t just about having the right equipment — it’s about having the right expertise behind it.

Every stock, finish, and coating behaves differently. That’s why having an experienced team makes all the difference. When you partner with Minuteman Press Castle Rock, you get the best of both worlds:

• Local craftsmanship and personalized service

• Global resources and consistency through Minuteman Press International

Whether you need a handful of premium business cards or a complete branded suite, we’ll help you choose finishes that are both beautiful and practical—ensuring your brand stands out at every touchpoint.

Ready to Elevate Your Next Project?

Bring your vision to life—let us help you create standout print with spot UV, raised foil, soft-touch laminate, embossing, and more.

Connect with Minuteman Press Castle Rock to see how our local expertise makes your print unforgettable.

Get a Quote:👉 Request a Quote   Call Us:📞 303-688-5692

Email Us:✉️ castlerock@minutemanpress.com