Printing Wedding Invitations: Fedex, A Reliable Option?

Printing wedding invitations at FedEx is possible, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to finalise the invitation design before taking it to FedEx, either on a disc or flash drive. If you want to use specific paper, you will need to bring it with you. FedEx offers different printing options, such as double-sided printing and tissue paper. It is recommended to print a couple of sample invitations to ensure they meet your expectations. Additionally, it is important to plan ahead and allow enough time for reprints in case of any issues. While FedEx can be a cheap option if you bring your own paper and cut the invitations yourself, it can also get pricey, so make sure to discuss pricing beforehand.

Printing costs

• Printing at FedEx can be a cost-effective option, especially if you buy your own paper and cut the invitations yourself. By providing your own paper, you can save money on their in-house paper options.
• To print at FedEx, you can either visit one of their locations or use their website. If you opt for the website, you will need to download and install the File, Print FedEx Kinko's application, which allows you to customize the settings for professional-quality printing.
• When printing at a FedEx location, bring your invitation design on a compact disc, floppy disc, or flash drive. It is recommended to finalize your design before arriving to ensure a smooth process.
• If you choose to use their paper, you can select the type of paper and any additional options, such as two-sided printing or tissue paper. The cost will depend on the specific choices you make.
• It is advisable to request a couple of sample prints to inspect the quality and ensure they meet your expectations. This also allows you to make any necessary adjustments before printing the entire batch.
• The cost of printing at FedEx is typically calculated based on the number of invitations and the complexity of the design. Black ink is generally the most cost-effective option, with color printing potentially incurring additional charges.
• FedEx may charge a setup fee if they need to manipulate your file. For example, if you need to paste an image or make significant changes, there could be a per-file fee, so it is best to have your design ready beforehand.
• While FedEx can print a wide range of designs, they may not be able to accommodate all requests. For example, they cannot print white ink on dark papers, as this requires special printing methods and ink.
• It is always a good idea to discuss pricing with the customer service representatives at FedEx before proceeding with the printing. Ask about various paper stocks and print size options to find the most cost-effective solution for your needs.
• The total cost of printing your wedding invitations at FedEx will depend on the specific choices you make, the number of invitations, and any additional services or adjustments required.

In summary, printing wedding invitations at FedEx can be a convenient option, but it is important to consider the various factors that can influence the printing costs. By providing your own paper, finalizing your design beforehand, and discussing options with customer service representatives, you can help keep costs under control while still achieving the desired result for your wedding invitations.

Design requirements

To print wedding invitations at FedEx, you need to meet certain design requirements. Firstly, FedEx Office, formerly known as FedEx Kinko's, offers two methods to print your invitations: visiting one of their locations or using their website. If you choose to visit a FedEx Office location, you must create and finalise your invitation design before bringing it in. Save your design on a compact disc, floppy disc, or flash drive, and ensure you have the paper you want the invitation printed on. Provide the number of invitations, your chosen paper type, and any additional options such as double-sided printing or tissue paper.

It is recommended to request a couple of sample prints to ensure the desired outcome. Provide your contact and payment information, and set a date for printing that allows enough time for reprints if needed. When picking up your order, check each invitation for consistency and errors, as different printers may produce slightly different results.

If you opt to use the FedEx Office website, you can download and install the File, Print FedEx Kinko's application. This application simplifies customising print settings and adds FedEx Kinko's as one of your print drivers. After opening your invitation design on your computer, click "Print" and select "File Print FedEx Kinko's" as the printer. Choose your printing options, including the number of copies and paper choices, and decide whether to pick up your invitations or have them shipped to you. Provide the necessary shipping and payment information, or select a nearby location for pickup.

File formats

When printing wedding invitations at FedEx, it is important to consider the file formats that are compatible with their printing systems. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare your wedding invitation files for printing at FedEx:

• PDF: To ensure that your wedding invitation design and fonts are preserved exactly as you want them, it is recommended to provide your files in PDF format. This way, you can be sure that the fonts you have chosen will be maintained, even if FedEx doesn't have the same fonts installed on their systems. Converting your files to PDF before submitting them for printing can give you more control over the final output.
• Word or Text Documents: If you are creating your wedding invitations using Microsoft Word or another text editing software, you can save your files in formats such as .DOC, .DOCX, or .TXT. Make sure that your document is set up with the exact measurements of your invitation cards, including any bleed or trim marks that may be required. Saving your files in a compatible text format will allow FedEx to easily open and print your invitations without any issues.
• Image Files: For wedding invitation designs that are primarily image-based, you can submit files in common image formats such as JPEG, PNG, or TIFF. These formats support high-quality images, ensuring that your invitation designs look crisp and clear when printed. When using image files, make sure to set the resolution to at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) for the best printing results.
• Design Software Files: If you have access to design software, you can create your wedding invitations using programs like Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, or Photoshop. FedEx may accept files in native formats such as .INDD (InDesign), .AI (Illustrator), or .PSD (Photoshop). However, it is always a good idea to check with your local FedEx center beforehand to ensure that they can open and print from these file types.
• USB or CD: Once you have finalized your files, you can bring them to FedEx on a USB flash drive or a CD. This way, you can provide your files in multiple formats if needed and ensure that FedEx has access to your designs and all the necessary fonts and linked assets.

Remember to contact your local FedEx center or visit their website to get the most up-to-date information on supported file formats and any specific requirements they may have for printing wedding invitations.

Paper options

When it comes to paper options for wedding invitations, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to choose a paper that is thick and durable, as invitations are often mailed and need to withstand handling during transit. A cardstock or matte finish paper is a good option for this. If you are looking for a more luxurious feel, specialty papers such as cotton or linen can be used, but these may be more expensive.

Another important consideration is the colour of the paper. If you have a specific design or colour scheme in mind, you will need to find a paper that complements this. Plain white or cream paper is always a classic option, but if you want something more unique, there are a variety of coloured papers available. However, keep in mind that FedEx may have limited options when it comes to paper colour, and speciality papers may need to be sourced from a different supplier.

In terms of paper size, it is important to choose a standard size that will fit within the dimensions of an envelope. Common sizes for wedding invitations include 5" x 7" or 8.5" x 11"," which can be cut down to size if needed. If you are printing multiple invitations per page, make sure to allow for bleed and trim marks to ensure a clean finish.

Finally, consider the finish of the paper. A glossy finish can add a touch of elegance to your invitations, while a matte finish may be more suitable for a rustic or minimalist design. Again, keep in mind that FedEx may have limited options when it comes to paper finish, so it is always best to check with your local store to see what is available.

Overall, when choosing a paper for your wedding invitations, it is important to consider the thickness, colour, size, and finish of the paper to ensure it aligns with your design and budget. By exploring the options available at FedEx or other printing services, you can find the perfect paper to bring your vision to life.

Pick-up or delivery

Pick-up:

• Create and finalise your invitation design. Save it on a compact disc, floppy disc, or flash drive. If you have specific paper requirements, bring that along too.
• Head to your nearest FedEx Office location and speak to a customer service representative. Provide them with your design, paper (if applicable), desired quantity, paper type, and any other options such as double-sided printing or tissue paper.
• Request a couple of sample prints to ensure the invitations meet your expectations.
• Confirm the printing timeline with the representative and provide your contact and payment information.
• Pick up your invitations on the due date and carefully inspect each one for consistency and errors, as different printers may produce slightly different results.

Delivery:

• Install the File, Print FedEx Kinko's application on your computer. This application allows you to customise settings for professional-quality printing and adds FedEx Kinko's as one of your print drivers.
• Open your invitation design on your computer and click "Print," selecting "File Print FedEx Kinko's" as the designated printer.
• Choose your printing options, including the number of copies and paper choices.
• Select the delivery option and provide your shipping address and payment information.

Both options are convenient and flexible, allowing you to customise your wedding invitations according to your specific needs. The pick-up option may be preferable if you want to inspect the invitations in person before taking them home, while the delivery option offers the convenience of having your invitations shipped directly to your chosen address.

Remember to plan ahead and allow sufficient time for any necessary reprints or corrections to ensure you receive your dream wedding invitations!

Frequently asked questions