Ashley Gordy, Senior Project Coordinator

Have you heard? Some 3,700 United States Postal Service offices could close their doors in 2012.

I understand the reasoning, of course. The USPS faces a record $9 billion deficit. Shutting down these “low traffic” offices will save about $200 million annually.

Still, perhaps because our business relies so heavily on traditional mail services – particularly in the rural areas most affected by the closings — or perhaps for sentimental reasons — I’m getting married soon and envisioning how my invitations will be received by our guests — the closings make me wonder what other changes are in store.

According to The Wall Street Journal, not every state will be affected. In fact, my home state, Delaware, isn’t even on the list. Of course, the entire state only has 70 post offices to begin with!

I’ll be curious to see how our business will be affected going forward. Direct mail will still be a factor, to be sure, but does this signal the end of an era or a bright beginning?  Indeed, going forward, I believe we’ll see much greater emphasis on phone and email campaigns.

In my mind, though, neither of those will ever replicate the impact – or bring quite the same smile to the face – as a personally delivered direct mail package. Or, for that matter, a hand-addressed wedding invitation.

What do you think?

The Wall Street Journal has put together a terrific interactive tool, which will let you see whether any offices near you might be closing. Click here for the link.