Frequently Asked Questions
9650 Strickland Rd 103.385 • Raleigh NC 27615 USA
Basic ordering and proofing instructions follow, but it's as simple as this: Find your item, determine a quantity (you can always change this later), and go to the card customizer. Here you will select typestyle and ink color(s) and proceed to check out. We'll be sending a complimentary proof, even though you've set your card up on the customizer. Our talented typesetters have to do this anyway and we want to make sure you have all the details and placement as best as possible.
We have fabulously generous promotions throughout the year, so do check back and make sure you receive the Cid Pear email newsletter, because there are rewards....
Any questions? Check below or call us at 919.848.4255 Monday through Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm EST, or email us anytime.
When am I able to reach someone with questions concerning my order?
Our Stationery Consultants are happy to help you with all of your stationery needs, between the hours of 8:30a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EST), Monday through Friday. Call our toll free number, 919.848.4255, to speak with someone between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EST), Monday through Friday, or email us anytime, use our contact page for easy access. We will respond to your e-mail the same business day!
May I contact you by e-mail?
Yes, we would love to hear from you. Contact us through the contact page. We will respond to your e-mail the same business day! email address: paper AT cidpear . COM
How are your products organized on the site?
In the sidebar to the left, products are grouped by type. Stationery is grouped by event type; i.e. bridal, kids, and holiday. Each of these categories is in turn divided into subcategories by a specific event and/or card type; for example, bridal is divided into wedding invitations, save the dates, note cards, and so on.
How do I use the search function to find the card I want?
There are two ways to use the search function, as you see when you click to type in the search box at top left. The first is to search by 'tag' (which is the default search method.) Using this method searches by certain keywords that our products have been tagged with, such as 'Sweet 16,' 'Birth Announcement,' 'Pink' or 'Bunny,' and will bring up many results. This is the best search method if you only have a general idea of what you want. The second search method is 'keyword' which searches by the name of the product. Obviously, this is the best search method if you think you know the name of the motif and will generally bring up the motif if the name you provide is close enough to the actual name. Neither of these search methods are 100% precise or accurate, so if you have problems please don't hesitate to contact us and we will be glad to walk you through a search or help you select a product.
Can I get a sample of something I like before I order?
You may order a sample of anything shown on the site. We do however believe the site provides a clear visual of each item available, but, if you prefer a closer look, samples may be purchased and delivered to you. All products are typeset and printed at our facilities. Our job is to make sure that your order is created exactly the way you specified. In order to maintain this high standard, our Stationery Consultants quality review every order.
Are Gift Cards Available?
Gift Cards are available, just let us know if we need to include one from you and tell us what to write!
Our Stationery Consultants are available to help answer any questions on product, printing, wording and more. Contact us by calling 919.848.4255 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., (EST), Monday through Friday or via e-mail here!
Ordering instructions for PERSONALIZED STATIONERY AND INVITES:
Once you have selected your stationery to personalize, please select quantity of cards, this will take you directly to the CARD CUSTOMIZER. Here you will select your font or type style and ink color. Type your text into the card customizer lines. Don't worry if your type looks odd or scrunched, we will perfect it for you and send you a proof regardless. Add your optional return address information, and proceed to the shopping cart. There is a lot of correspondence back and forth before we proceed to printing so don't worry, we're here for you and will take you through each step of the way.
What if I can't see all of my text in the CARD CUSTOMIZER resource?
There is a set number of lines allowed per card, anything over that, there is a nominal charge. Basically this is to cover additional design work to accommodate the extra lines. Therefore, there are times when not all of your text will appear in the customize section. When your order is placed, all your desired text will indeed be forwarded to the professional typesetter. The typesetter will arrange your text, making any necessary adjustments for size and spacing. Just add your additional text to the box below the card on the customizer.
How do I order a Proof?
You don't have to. We automatically send you a proof once we receive your order. You are allowed one change to this proof. After that we have to charge an additional $10 a change and proof on your order. After selecting a card, please click onto the Customize button. Follow the prompts to enter your text, choose type style and ink color. You will then be prompted to choose a quantity and envelope features (envelope liner if available for your product and printed return address). The proof will be emailed to you, using your desired text and type style. The lay out will be arranged by a professional typesetter. Proofs are usually available one to two business days after your order is processed.
How will I know you received my order?
Upon placing your order, you will receive an automatic order confirmation via email. You will then receive a proof or confirmation of your order within 24 business hours of placing your order. Once approved, we print and ship within 5 business days (10 at the holidays), and you will receive an email confirmation when your order ships with a UPS tracking number. If you need additional information or have a quick change or revision regarding your order, please feel free to contact us at 919.848.4255 or email HERE!
How long will it take to receive my order?
All personalized orders are typeset and printed at our facilities. We ensure your order is created exactly the way you specified. In order to maintain high standards our stationery consultants review and follow the progress of each order. From the time of approval, your order is usually printed and shipped within 5 business days. You specify shipping method.
Do you offer a discount for large quantity orders?
In most cases, the price per card will decrease as the quantity increases.
Will I see a proof of my order before printing?
One of the novelties of our site is the ability to view your stationery selection and text directly on line. However, keep in mind that this is simply a preview of the type-style and ink color that you selected on your card. We do send a complimentary proof to you for verification and in order to prevent any error. You are able to make a change at this point. Next proof and consequent proofs are $10 each.
All products are typeset and printed at tour facilities. Our job is to make sure that your order is created exactly the way you specified. In order to maintain this high standard, our Stationery Consultants quality review every order. A professional typesetter will do the final and exact layout of your order. While your preview will be followed as closely as possible sometimes adjustments are necessary. As soon as the proof is available, we will e-mail the color image directly to you. Proofs are usually available one to two business days after your order is processed.
Can I see a sample of the stationery prior to ordering?
Yes, a sample of the card/invitation can be purchased for $2.00 (and ribboned sample is $4.00 (Due to the expense of pulling and shipping, we must charge for this.)
How do I purchase a sample?
Samples are available for many cards on our website. If you are interested in ordering a sample, click on the small picture of the card you are interested in seeing. This will take you to a larger picture of the same card. Details of the card are located on this page. Simply click on the button marked: "Order a sample" and the card will be added to your Shopping Cart. You can then either continue shopping, or simply click on the small Shopping Cart link in the upper right corner of the screen. Samples are not available for all cards. If there is no sample button visible on the card you are interested in, contact Customer Service toll free at 919.848.4255, to see if a sample can be ordered.
Can I put a RUSH on my order?
Rush Processing is of course available for a charge of $40. Once we receive a personalized 'rush' order, we will confirm with you. A Rush Order is processed immediately upon receipt. If received no later than 10am EST on a business day, a proof will be emailed same day, and if approval is received same day, printing and packaging will be processed for shipment next business day. In rare cases, we can ship same day for overnight. Remember, there is, of course, a Rush Processing fee of $40~.
Can you pre-ship my envelopes?
If you'd like your envelopes pre-shipped so you can busy yourself with addressing, just let us know.
How do I check the status of my order?
Upon placing your order, you will receive an automatic order confirmation via e-mail. You will also receive an e-mail confirmation when your order ships. If you need additional information about your order, you may contact us at paper@cidpear.com.
Are there cut off dates to order Holiday Ordering?
The cut-off dates for Holiday Ordering are posted on the website. We recommend ordering as early as possible since during the Holiday season, there can be delays, cut-offs and so on. Personalized stationery ordering is a little slower than normal during the holidays, so usually between November 1 and December 20th, we inform you it's going to take about 10 business days before your order ships. It's normally about 5 business days once approved.
What does shipping cost, and how long does it take to ship?
Shipping cost is based on what you have purchased, the ship method and the destination.
We typically use UPS to ship from our North Carolina facility. Shipping prices range and depend on your order, Size and weight and destination.
A typical order containing up to 100 cards/envelopes shipping within the United States would be as follows:
Ground $9~
3-day select $18~
2nd day air $32~
Next Business Day Air $60~
Next day Saturday delivery $90~
When shipping Ground, delivery is expected within 3 to 7 business days. We are also able to ship overseas.
Do you ship overseas?
If you are interested in placing an order and having it shipped outside the continental United States please contact our Customer Service department for shipping rates. The department is open between 8:30am and 5:30pm EST Monday through Friday. Or send us an email us and detail your request for shipping information. Please be sure to include a complete shipping address.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. Retailers see retailer pages!
When will I be billed for my order?
Personalized stationery is charged to your credit card as soon as the order is received. If additions or credits are necessary, we will adjust your order appropriately.
Will sales tax, use tax or duty be added to my purchase?
Because of our location, all orders placed within the United States and its territories are exempt from sales tax and duties except for the State of North Carolina. If you live in NC we are compelled to charge 4% sales tax on your order.
Do you have a PRIVACY POLICY?
Cid Pear does not allow your information to be passed on to other mailing lists. We will not be sending promotional material or information to you unless you request it. We don't believe in burdening your mailbox any more than i already is. We don't exchange, share, nor offer any information about you to any other company.
Do you have a security policy?
Shopping with Cid Pear is easy and it is safe! Our server is protected by an encryption process which converts your info into bits of code, ensuring a secure transmission over the Internet.
Can I make a return?
We at Cid Pear quality control check each and every order as you have ordered it. A perfect color proof is supposed to prevent error, so ensure you have reviewed your proofs carefully. There is opportunity to change or revise or otherwise add to your order along the way. Once we receive the go-ahead to print and ship, this actually happens.
So, we are positive you will not have to return your beautiful personalized stationery order! Now u
if a designer, our personalization department, customer service or quality control check dept., or even our shipping department made an absolute blunder.. we will either simply redo the order for you. If you made a mistake and need to redo something, we will grant a discount, but can't redo for free...
You may place an order at any time day or night through our site. From the Home Page, there are two easy ways to shop on the Cid Pear site:
* Shop by using Search. This is where you can search by entering search words, such as frogs, brides or chicks, or product number, or theme, such as Tropical?
* Shop by Category - click on the category that you wish to browse, such as "Bridal" and view product selections that way.
* However you have opted to browse, you will then be shown a product "thumbnail" page showcasing a range of products for you to peruse. Click on any thumbnail will lead you to a product page where you can more closely view the product, review the product description, price, see if the product requires extra postage. This is also where you will be shown any related products, if offered, such as matching thank you notes with a wedding invitation. This is basically where you learn all the details of the product, additional features that are available and where you select and customize your order.
* After selecting product that you wish to purchase - you will now have the opportunity to customize the item by creating and viewing a proof online -- enter text, edit text, and choose your desired font and font color. If you wish to continue shopping, click the Back to Shopping button. (Or, if you want to save this item to your account, click Add to My Shopping Cart. ) If you are finished selecting items, click the Customize Envelopes button to continue.
* After you have chosen and customized your selection, you will next be led to the envelopes screen where you can request printed return address. Next, if available, you will be prompted to choose any items related to the one you have customized. If there are related items, such as matching thank you notes, you may select any desired items and customize as needed before continuing.
* Next, you will be directed to your Shopping Cart, where you can see everything in your cart, edit the text if needed, and make any final changes. You can review your total order for accuracy and make any final changes. This is also your last opportunity to add or remove items, or alter quantities before Check Out. (You may also view your Shopping Cart at any time by simply clicking on the Shopping Cart link at the top right hand of the screen.)
* You will then proceed to the Checkout area. This is where you enter your billing and contact information as well as any promotion codes. (If you're a registered cidpear.com customer, some of this information will appear automatically.)
* First, you will be asked to enter billing address. If this is not the same address the shipment will be sent to, you will have an opportunity to add another address to ship to. (Our multiple ship-to capability offers a way to send stationery to several different addresses, whether you're sending the same to everybody or something different to each address.) Next, specify your preferred shipping method.
* Continuing in the Checkout process, review your order and enter your credit card information. (We do not store credit card numbers - see our Privacy & Security policy.) Complete the order by clicking the Place Order button.
* If you need assistance with the order, please call our toll-free number 919.848.4255 between 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EST), Monday thru Friday and one of our stationery consultants will be delighted to assist you with your online order.
Do you ship overseas?
If you are interested in placing an order and having it shipped outside of the continental United States please call our Customer Service department for shipping rates. The department is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EST), Monday through Friday. Or send an e-mail to paper@cidpear.com with your request for shipping information. Please be sure to include a complete shipping address, the product number and quantity of the item(s) you are interested in purchasing.
How long does it take to receive my order?
All products are typeset and printed at our facilities. Our job is to make sure that your order is created exactly the way you specified. In order to maintain this high standard, our Stationery Consultants quality review every order. Most customers receive their orders 7-10 business days from the date the order is placed. Please refer to the Delivery time information posted with each order.
Is it safe to use my credit card?
Yes. Shopping with cidpear.com is safe! Our server is protected.
What is your privacy policy?
You will not be added to anyone else's mailing list. (See our Privacy Policy) (We will not be sending promotional material unless you have opted for that service.) Since our site is equipped to provide you with the most current stationery products being offered, we do not feel it is necessary to put a burden on your mailbox. We do not exchange, share, nor offer any information about you to any other companies.
Can I print on the back of my stationery?
We guess you could but why? Since printing on the back of stationery requires double printing, a fee may be associated with these special requests. Contact a Stationery Consultant at 866.676.2247 for information on availability and pricing, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (EST), Monday through Friday.
How much will it cost to mail my wedding invitation?
The price of mailing your invitation will depend on both the height and the weight. If the height of the card is over 6 and 1/8 inches, the length is over 11 and 1/2 inches or the thickness is over 1/4 inch, additional postage will be necessary. The dimensions of your invitation can be found on the "Main" picture page. We suggest that you bring an assembled invitation to your Post Office to have the exact postage determined. Although we will note if additional postage is necessary, usually it is not.
Am I able to choose which color bow I want on my card?
Yes, many of the cards with enhancements can be ordered in a variety of colors. Check with a Stationery Consultant at 919.848.4255 for more information.
I'm not sure whether I am using the correct punctuation and grammar when I write the wording for my invitation. Does someone review my order for proper grammar?
We proof every order for grammatical correctness. If we observe any grammar or punctuation that we feel is questionable, we will always call or email you first before making any changes. Please make sure you then re-review your order.
Are there cut-off dates for ordering Holiday cards?
The cut-off dates for Holiday ordering are posted on our Web site. We recommend ordering as early as possible since during the holiday season, there can be inevitable delays, cut-offs, and out-of-stock products as we manage holiday orders.
When can I expect my pre-shipped envelopes?
If your order is due to arrive within 5 days of your preshipped envelopes, we will ship your entire order together. If you will be sending us birth announcement text at a future date, you can expect your pre-shipped envelopes to arrive according to the published delivery dates for the vendor you selected.
Can I have my order gift-wrapped and sent to a different mailing address?
All of our orders are attractively packaged in a beautiful gift-style format, which can be given to anyone with confidence. We can ship your order directly to the gift recipient and include a gift card addressed with a message of your choice.
NEWSLETTER SIGN UP
Question: How do I sign-up for your newsletter?
Answer: Simple. On our HOME page of the site is a sign up box. Just type in your email address and click the go button. This will link you to a sign-up form. Just fill in the boxes and send/submit. This will simply add you to our newsletter database. At the bottom of your confirmation email letter you will receive a promotional thank you discount coupon. Just for signing up!
Question: How do I redeem my discount coupon?
Answer: Easy. Simply go through the ordering steps and at checkout you will see a coupon code field. Simply enter this code and your discount will be applied to the order (related to that specific coupon and its rules.
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BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT ETIQUETTE
- What is the proper information to be included on a birth announcement?
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The name of your baby naturally, and some folks have a nickname for baby - if so include it in quote marks underneath the full name... Include the date, weight, names of the parents (if not married list them), and if just want to have mom or dad's name only, that's ok too. Some people add the time of the birth but this is not important unless it is to you! Twins for instance come a few minutes apart ( not in my case I may add ).. but they include the times because it's, well just fun! Very rare, but a handful of parents want the place of birth or even the hospital name... but this is also not an important thing unless it has special meaning! No need for the parents' address because you probably have a return address printed on the birth announcement envelope... I wouldn't say 'no gifts' or 'see gift registry'... it's cheasy piceasy... Leave it to your birth announcement recipients... they'll either do something or not!
- It is traditional to include birth weight on an announcement?
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It's not a necessity... you could omit the child's weight... maybe the baby is enormous or maybe it's as tiny as can be (my daughter was just 2 1/2 lbs)... there's no reason to tell everyone. The average baby weighs in between 6 and 9 pounds, and for some reason people are curious about the weight of the baby! That is strange isn't it? Maybe we want to know how much or little pain you went through!
- When should the announcements be sent out and when is the latest that it can be sent out?
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Popular question... If you're organized send them out immediately. Pick the announcement, pre-order the envelopes so you can address them, (get stamps ready to go) and order the announcement but let us know to hold until the birth! Then get a friend, mom or the new daddy if he's ok to do so, to contact us with the final details - name, date, weight, et cetera! I changed the name of my daughter when she was born, she was Sarah Pearl in the wome and Amelia Melpomene outside!
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OK, so if you're like me, unorganized or simply just way too much stuff going on.... and by the way, this is most people! Say you find yourself baby on the boob, and you realize 'OOps.... baby is 6 weeks or older and those birth announcements still have not gone out!" Yikes... no problem... but do announce baby to the world... The latest is 9 months I think.... Way before 1 and still not walking!
- Is it appropriate to send out announcements for an adopted child?
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Absolutely.... a new member of the family... you'd better announce that! Here's some wording for you:
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Kelsey and Michael Mclear are happy to announce
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that a wonderful young man has joined their family,
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George Louis Campbell,
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born on February 6, 2007, even if it is two or three years previously
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That's all you have to say. If you want to you can say who came to us from China, Russia or where ever he or she came from!
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We adopted our Alex when he was 7. His anouncement read: Kevin and Tina Givens are delighted to inform you, Alexander has joined our family. He is 7 and a galant young lad we'd love you to meet. We added a photograph of the 3 of us!
- Is there a special way of writing announcements for multiple births?
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Just the same as for one baby, but place the names either on both sides of the announcement for twins, or simply separated so there is no question there are two, three or more babies. We had a boy and a girl so you can even differentiate in color... we don't charge for additional ink colors... so use it! Well done by the way... multiples are great fun unless you have 8 at one time!
- Is it necessary to write a personalized note on each announcement?
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Ahhh, no! Absolutely not unless you'd like to say something special to someone close like grandma or an aunt or uncle!
- Is it necessary to include a photograph with my birth announcement?
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Some love a photo birth announcement but they are not popular because quite frankly, the newborn babies are usually not photogenic! And hospital photos are not great! Wait till baby is beautiful and happy in front of a camera... Now, if adopted child is older, definitely do, it's fun for everyone to see the new addition!
- Are people who receive birth announcements expected to send gifts?
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It's an accepted idea that folks don't have to send a gift, a call or note is a great gift in itself, yes? But some do... Most will react to the announcement. And of course if it's you wondering whether or not to send a gift, send stationery with baby's name on it! What a great gift! Ahh, no brainer here!
- I kept my maiden name, how can I best word my child's birth announcement?
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Jackson Hadden and Jacqueline Kline announce with great joy the birth ...
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And if you're worried about people's reactions, well then they shouldn't even be getting an announcement right? Although there are those must-includes in the list, right! And by the way many woman keep their maiden name in marriage... people don't think that way anymore unless you're from... I'd better not say!
- Does my baby need stationery, thank you notes or calling cards?
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Well yes! For gift thank yous what a special thing to send it in his or her name! Ahhhh, and have it match the announcement too! How cute! And what about if your friend has a baby too, send that baby a gift and a note from your baby! Oh can I be any more sickenly cute?
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What about calling cards too, or gift enclosures.... oh I can go on and on!
We continually review Most Frequently Asked Questions and post them onto the site. So please, if you don't find an answer here, please email us at paper@cidpear.com and we will gladly get an answer for you.
Raleigh NC 27615
919.848.4255
fax 919.573.9540
www.cidpear.com
Due to the many differences in computer monitors and individual printers, the final product may differ slightly from the way you see it. Don't worry, we will make sure everything matches and we are sure you will be pleased.
