It looks basic and simple, takes many forms, and has stood the test of time. What is it?
It’s the envelope!
With most communication now being technology and digitally driven, who would think this basic paper product could still be the least bit interesting? Let’s slow down a minute and dive into its history; it is deep and rich with many surprises.
The first envelope dates back to 2,000 B.C. and was made of clay! Messages were written on clay tablets, baked, covered with more clay to secure the message, and then baked again. Messages secured in this clay envelope included letters, financial information, many of the needs we have for them today! Over time, the envelope evolved from being made of clay and needing to be broken to read the embedded message to now coming in a variety of different forms serving a multitude of needs from damage protection to security protection. At one point, envelopes were even made of other materials like animal skin, until paper was invented a little over 200 years ago!
Before the paper folding machine was invented, letter writers would simply fold another piece of paper around their message, then seal it with a wax stamp that indicated the sender’s wealth. Or, they’d even “seal it with kiss.”
Yes, that’s where that phrase originates. Sealing an envelope with a kiss was once a sign of a document’s legality!
Once the envelope folding machine was developed in 1840 the demand for envelopes grew, which led to postage being more affordable and paved the way for envelopes being in more demand. As this new “trend” picked up, a paper shortage ensued, so people got creative and made their own envelopes. They would turn used ones inside out, reuse torn pieces of wallpaper, or tear pages from books. Envelopes have certainly stood the test of time!
Digitally communicating with your customers seems to be THE way to go these days. Yet, with all the other options we currently have there still isn’t quite the need for paper products like that of envelopes. The U.S.P.S. processes over 150 million pieces of first-class mail each day.
Even with all our faster and more convenient options, it doesn’t appear that envelopes are going anywhere anytime soon. It is still a nice way to tangibly inform and educate your customers about your products and services. Digital transmission is certainly convenient, but receiving a piece of mail cuts through all that “on-screen” clutter, and still adds that personal touch for your business!
At Caracal we offer a large variety of envelopes that including customized options. Caracal will continue to “push the envelope” efficiently and resourcefully providing you with what you need! Connect with us at saless@caracalcorp.com to find out how we can help you.