Photo Paper Invites: Good Or Bad For Weddings?

Wedding invitations are an important part of wedding planning, as they set the tone for the event and provide guests with key information. While there are many options for invitation styles and printing techniques, one question that couples may ask is whether using photo paper for invitations is a suitable choice. Some may wonder if this option is more cost-effective, while others may question if it is appropriate for a formal wedding. In this discussion, we will explore the considerations and opinions surrounding the use of photo paper for wedding invitations.

Cost implications of photo paper vs. cardstock

The cost implications of photo paper versus cardstock for wedding invitations vary depending on several factors, including printing methods, paper quality, and desired aesthetics. Here is a detailed analysis of the cost implications:

Cost of Materials:

Photo Paper:

• Photo paper is generally more expensive than cardstock. For example, a 4x6" photo paper print can cost $0.19 or more per print, which is approximately three to four times the cost of cardstock.
• The higher cost of photo paper is due to its ability to produce vibrant and true-to-color prints that are designed to last longer than cardstock prints.

Cardstock:

Cardstock is a more cost-effective option for wedding invitations. For instance, a pack of 50 sheets of 8.5" x 11" cardstock costs approximately $6 at Walmart or craft stores, yielding 100 invitations at a cost of $0.06 each.

Printing Costs:

Photo Paper:

• Printing on photo paper may require the use of a photo kiosk or a professional printing service, which can add to the overall cost.
• Photo paper prints tend to use more ink, especially when aiming for vibrant colours, further increasing expenses.

Cardstock:

• Cardstock can often be printed at home, saving costs associated with external printing services.
• Cardstock prints use slightly less ink than photo paper, contributing to potential savings.

Time and Labour:

Photo Paper:

Printing on photo paper is generally faster and easier, as there is no need to cut individual invitations.

Cardstock:

Cardstock usually requires manual labour to cut out invitations, adding time and effort to the process.

Postage:

Photo Paper and Cardstock:

The weight of the paper will impact postage costs. Heavier papers will require additional postage, so it is essential to consider the weight of the chosen paper to keep postage costs down.

Printing Method:

Photo Paper:

Photo paper is well-suited for inkjet or laser printing, commonly used in home printers.

Cardstock:

Cardstock can be printed on home printers, but it is important to consider the weight capabilities of the printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock.

Aesthetic and Feel:

Photo Paper:

• Photo paper provides vibrant and true-to-colour prints, making it ideal for invitations with photographs or intricate designs.
• Photo paper has a smooth and polished finish, adding a touch of shine to the invitations.

Cardstock:

• Cardstock offers a more luxurious and elegant feel, especially with thicker options.
• Cardstock comes in various finishes, such as smooth matte, linen, eggshell, and metallic, allowing for customisation to match the desired wedding aesthetic.

In summary, photo paper can be more expensive due to the cost of materials and printing services, but it offers vibrant prints and a polished finish. Cardstock, on the other hand, is more cost-effective, especially for DIY invitations, but may require more time and effort for cutting and manual labour. Ultimately, the decision depends on the desired aesthetic, printing method, and budget for the wedding invitations.

Guests' perception of formality

The invitation is the first glimpse into the wedding for guests, and it sets the tone for the event. The invitation's formality will give guests an idea of what to expect at the wedding, from the dress code to the venue and decor.

The formality of the invitation is conveyed through the design, wording, and printing style. Here's how guests may perceive different aspects:

Design and Paper Type

The type of paper and its finish are significant factors in determining the formality of a wedding invitation. Here's how guests may perceive different paper types:

• Cardstock or cover stock: Using thick, heavy paper conveys luxury and elegance. It gives the impression of expense and couture.
• Linen cardstock: Adding a linen texture to the paper provides a subtle woven pattern that can enhance the overall presentation.
• Cotton fiber: Cotton paper is the most expensive option and is incredibly soft and smooth, giving invitations a luxurious feel.
• Kraft and wood-grain paper: These options offer a rustic, DIY touch, creating an intimate and personalized feel.
• Glassine and clear vellum paper: These translucent papers are often used for layered invitations, adding depth and interest without being too flashy.
• Acrylic invitations: Clear acrylic invitations are dramatic and unique but may be perceived as less formal due to their non-traditional material.

Wording and Etiquette

The wording and etiquette of wedding invitations also play a crucial role in conveying formality. Here's how guests may perceive different aspects:

• Host line: Traditionally, the bride's parents' names are listed first, followed by the groom's parents. Including both sets of parents' names adds a gracious touch.
• Request line: Phrases like "the honor of your presence" indicate a formal, religious ceremony, while "the pleasure of your company" suggests a non-religious ceremony.
• Names of the couple: Traditionally, the bride's name precedes the groom's. For same-sex couples, alphabetical order or aesthetic preference can be followed.
• Date and time: Formal invitations spell out the date and time in full ("Saturday, the fifteenth of September, two thousand twenty-one, at half after four in the afternoon"). Informal invitations may use numerals and abbreviated forms.
• Venue address: Including the street address is usually unnecessary unless it's a private residence or needed for clarity. The city and state are typically written out in full.
• Reception information: Very formal invitations provide this on a separate card. Otherwise, it can be included on the invitation or a reception card if the location differs.

Printing Style

The printing style and technique also impact the perceived formality:

• Engraving and embossing: These high-end techniques create raised lettering and images, adding a luxurious touch to the invitation.
• Foil stamping: This method creates sharp, crisp edges and clean colors, resulting in a glamorous and elegant appearance.
• Letterpress: Letterpress invitations have a soft, romantic feel due to the absorption of ink into the paper, resulting in a bit of bleed and blur.
• UV and thermographic printing: These methods create a slight shine on raised lettering, adding a subtle touch of elegance.
• Flat digital printing: While not adding tactile dimension, this affordable option offers freedom and flexibility in design, allowing for embellishments to enhance the overall presentation.

In conclusion, guests perceive the formality of a wedding invitation through a combination of design elements, wording choices, and printing styles. By carefully considering these aspects, couples can effectively convey the desired level of formality for their wedding.

Pros and cons of DIY printing

Printing your own wedding invitations can be a fun and budget-friendly option, but it's important to consider the pros and cons before diving into this complex task. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of DIY printing your wedding invitations:

Pro: Cost Savings

The most significant advantage of DIY printing is the potential cost savings. Professionally printed wedding invitations can be expensive, sometimes accounting for up to 4-6% of a couple's wedding budget. By printing your own invitations, you can significantly reduce this expense.

Con: DIY Tools and Materials Expense

Even though you skip professional printing, there are still costs associated with DIY invitations. Printer ink, envelopes, paper, and any custom inserts or accents will need to be purchased. It's essential to sample and test print on your selected materials before buying in bulk to avoid wasting money on incompatible supplies.

Pro: Creative Control and Personalization

DIY printing allows you to have complete creative control over the design and personalization of your invitations. If you have a specific vision that you want to execute precisely, DIY printing gives you the freedom to make it a reality without relying on a designer or stationer.

Con: Design and Execution Challenges

Executing your creative vision can be challenging, especially if you don't have design experience or access to the right tools. Designing, printing, assembling, and mailing invitations is time-consuming and may require specialized software and equipment. If you're not careful, the costs of materials and tools can add up quickly.

Pro: Fun Couple Activity

Creating your own wedding invitations can be a fun and collaborative activity for couples. It provides an opportunity to work together creatively and invest time and energy into something special.

Con: Time Consumption

DIY printing can be extremely time-consuming, especially if you're prone to perfectionism or easily frustrated. It's important to manage your time strategically and start the process early to avoid last-minute stress.

Pro: Error Prevention

When you print your own invitations, you have greater control over the final product and can catch any errors before they become costly mistakes. This can be advantageous if you have complex invitation wording or multiple invitation designs.

Con: Mistakes and Technical Difficulties

DIY printing comes with its fair share of mistakes, technical difficulties, and unforeseen obstacles. From printer jams to design errors, it's essential to buy extra materials and have a proofreader to catch any mistakes before printing.

Pros and cons of professional printing

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to print your wedding invitations yourself or go with a professional printer. Here are the pros and cons of professional printing to help you make an informed decision:

Pro: High-Quality Results

One of the biggest advantages of professional printing is the impeccable craftsmanship and look of the final product. Professional printers have the expertise and equipment to produce invitations with a polished and elegant finish. This is especially true for techniques like letterpress, engraving, and foil stamping, which are difficult to achieve at home.

Con: Higher Costs

Professional printing can be more expensive than DIY, with costs varying depending on the type of paper, printing method, number of invitations, and any additional inserts or embellishments. Engraving, for example, is considered the most formal and pricey option, with costs starting around $2,200 for 100 cards.

Pro: Time Savings

Printing your own invitations can be time-consuming, especially if you're working with complex designs or large volumes. By outsourcing the printing, you can save time and focus on other wedding planning tasks.

Con: Less Creative Control

When you work with a professional printer, you may have to make compromises on your vision. They may have specific requirements for file formats, colour palettes, or paper choices that limit your creativity. However, they can also provide valuable feedback and guidance to ensure the best possible print quality.

Pro: Access to a Variety of Papers and Printing Methods

Professional printers offer a wide range of paper types, weights, and finishes that may not be accessible to individuals. They also have the capability to handle thicker papers and specialised printing methods like thermography, letterpress, and engraving.

Con: Potential for Errors and Delays

Even with professional printers, mistakes can happen, and reconciling these errors can be frustrating and costly. Additionally, you may have to work around their production and delivery timelines, which can take longer than digital or in-house printing.

Ultimately, the decision to use professional printing services depends on your specific needs, budget, and the level of customisation desired. Professional printing can provide a sophisticated and memorable invitation suite, but it comes with a higher price tag and less flexibility compared to DIY options.

Paper weight and thickness considerations

When it comes to paper weight and thickness, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the printing process is important. If you're printing at home, you need to check your printer's capabilities as most home printers are designed for lightweight copy paper. Most consumer-grade printers can handle 80-100lb cardstock, but it's important to check your specific printer's manual before purchasing paper.

If you're using a professional print shop, it's a good idea to bring samples and discuss their equipment and capabilities. Some printing methods, like letterpress, work with a variety of weights, finishes, and textures, whereas digital printing may struggle with heavily textured papers.

The style of your invitation is another factor. Flat invitation cards are usually made from heavier cardstock, typically starting at 80lb cover and up. Folding invitation cards are generally made from lighter stock, often between 65-100lb cover, as they are twice as thick after folding. If you're creating a layered card, it's recommended to keep the top layer light (80lb cover or under) and attach it to a heavier card.

Finally, consider the postage. Invites weighing over 1 ounce will require additional postage, so keeping the weight of your cardstock down can help reduce costs.

Frequently asked questions