Wedding Invitations: Are They Still Relevant?

Wedding invitations are still a common practice, with many couples opting for traditional paper invitations. While digital invitations are becoming more popular, particularly for sustainability and cost reasons, there is something exciting about receiving a physical invite in the mail. Paper invitations are often seen as more formal and personal, and they can be a fun way to get guests excited about the upcoming wedding. They also allow guests to have a physical reminder of the wedding, which can be especially useful for those who are less tech-savvy. Ultimately, the decision to send paper or digital invitations comes down to personal preference and what the couple feels is most appropriate for their wedding.

Paper vs. digital invites

Wedding invites have become a hot topic for modern couples. The choice between paper and digital invites is a difficult one, with pros and cons to each.

Paper Invitations

Paper invitations are more expensive, but they are a beautiful, tangible souvenir of your big day. They can be kept as a memento, and there is something special about receiving an invite in the mail. Paper invites are also more formal and traditional, and they allow you to support small creative businesses. They can be highly personalised, from a watercolour depiction of your wedding venue to a modern, minimalist design with luxe features such as embossing or gold foil.

However, paper invites are more time-consuming, and there are additional costs for paper, printing, and postage. There is also the environmental impact to consider, as well as the possibility of the invite getting lost or damaged in the mail.

Digital Invites

Digital invites are more affordable, eco-friendly, and convenient. They can be designed and sent for free or at a low cost, and there is no risk of them getting lost in the mail. You can also track RSVPs more easily and save time chasing down late responses.

However, digital invites may not be suitable for all guests, particularly older relatives who are less tech-savvy. There is also no physical keepsake, and they may be seen as less formal or traditional.

So, Which Is Better?

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to paper vs. digital invites. It depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the needs of your guest list. Many couples choose to do a mix of both, sending digital save-the-dates and following up with traditional paper invitations. This way, you get the benefits of streamlining the RSVP process while still having a physical keepsake. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and there are plenty of options to suit every wedding style and budget.

Timing of sending invites

The timing of sending out wedding invitations is a crucial aspect of wedding planning. Here are some guidelines and suggestions to help you with the timing:

Save-the-Dates:

• Sending out Save-the-Date cards is a polite way to give your guests a heads-up about your wedding date, especially if it falls on a busy time of year or a holiday weekend.
• These are typically sent out six to twelve months before the wedding day. The earlier date is preferable as it allows guests to prepare and change plans if needed.
• If you're planning a destination wedding, sending these out as early as possible is advisable, even up to a year in advance.

Wedding Invitations:

• The general rule of thumb is to send out wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to plan and respond while also reducing the chances of unexpected changes.
• For weddings with a large number of international guests or a destination wedding, it is recommended to send invitations twelve weeks in advance.
• Some sources suggest that three months is not too early, especially if guests need to make travel arrangements or if the wedding is around a major holiday.
• Under no circumstances should invites be sent with less than six weeks until the wedding.

RSVPs:

• It is important to set an RSVP deadline to ensure you have enough time to finalise details with your vendors.
• The ideal deadline for RSVPs is one month before the wedding, giving you ample time for preparations while also reducing the chances of last-minute changes.
• If you send out Save-the-Dates, you can expect to receive some RSVPs soon after sending out the official invitations.

Other Considerations:

• If you choose to skip Save-the-Dates, the recommended time frame for sending invitations is four to six months before the wedding.
• For shorter engagements, aim for two to three months before the wedding.
• If you have a wedding website, ensure that all the information, including accommodation and travel details, is available as soon as Save-the-Dates are sent out.
• For international guests, consider giving them a heads-up via email or phone call, so they can start making travel arrangements.

RSVP methods

Wedding invitations are still very much in use, with many people opting for traditional paper invites. However, digital invites are also becoming increasingly common, especially for sustainability and cost-saving reasons.

Printed Cards

The traditional method of responding to a wedding invitation is by filling out and returning a printed RSVP card. This card is typically included with the wedding invitation and provides spaces for guests to write their names, the number of people attending, their meal choices, and any additional notes. It is considered good etiquette to respond as soon as possible and to follow any instructions provided by the couple.

Online Websites

With the rise of digital invitations, many couples now opt for online RSVPs through their wedding website. This method allows guests to respond quickly and easily, often with just a few clicks. Couples can also track responses and keep all the information in one place.

Emails

Some couples may request that guests RSVP via email, providing a dedicated email address for responses. This approach allows for more personalized responses, including gracious notes and well-wishes for the couple. It is important to respond by the deadline, use proper titles and names, and include all the requested information.

Phone Calls

For older relatives or guests who are less tech-savvy, a phone call can be a suitable way to RSVP. This method ensures that the guest can respond promptly and directly communicate any necessary information to the couple or designated organiser.

Text Messages

While less formal, some couples may be open to receiving RSVPs via text message, especially if they have a close relationship with the guest. This method is convenient and allows guests to respond quickly using their mobile phones.

Combination of Methods

Couples can also choose to offer multiple RSVP options to accommodate different preferences and comfort levels with technology. For instance, they may send paper invitations with an option to RSVP online or via mail, providing flexibility for their guests.

Regardless of the method chosen, it is essential to respond to wedding invitations promptly and to follow any specific instructions provided by the couple. This helps ensure that the couple can finalise their arrangements, including catering and seating plans, without undue stress.

Invitation design

Wedding invitations are still very much in use, with many people opting for paper invites. These can be simple and inexpensive, or luxurious and elegant. Some couples choose to send digital invites, which are more sustainable, cost-effective, and easier to manage.

Timing

It is customary to send out wedding invitations six to eight weeks before the wedding. This gives guests enough time to clear their schedules and make travel arrangements if needed. It is also common to send out "save-the-date" cards in advance, usually four to six months before the wedding, or even earlier for destination weddings.

Information to Include

The wedding invitation should include the date, time, and location of the ceremony. It is also common to include dress code information, either explicitly stated or hinted at through the invitation design. Additional details such as travel and accommodation information, wedding website, or a QR code can be included on separate enclosure cards.

Design and Personalization

Your wedding invitations can reflect the theme and style of your wedding. For a rustic wedding, consider simple invites printed on recycled brown paper. For a modern or minimalist wedding, there are many editable templates available online. You can also include a photo of the couple or a personalized wedding logo or monogram.

RSVP Management

It is becoming increasingly common to request RSVPs through a wedding website or via email or text, especially for digitally-savvy guests. However, it is still important to offer a paper RSVP option for less tech-savvy guests.

Special Considerations

If you are inviting international guests or a large number of guests from abroad, it is advisable to send out invitations earlier, around 12 weeks in advance. It is also a thoughtful gesture to give them a heads-up via call or email and provide information about booking accommodations.

Cost of invitations

The cost of wedding invitations varies depending on the style, printing method, and number of guests. Couples are increasingly opting for digital invitations, which are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. However, traditional paper invitations are still popular, with many guests displaying them on their refrigerators as a reminder of the upcoming event.

The average cost of wedding stationery in the United States is $530, with save-the-dates costing around $150 and invitations and RSVP cards costing an additional $240. The remaining $140 is spent on day-of stationery, such as menus, programs, and place cards. Prices vary depending on the region, with the Mid-Atlantic region having the highest average cost of $610, and the West having the lowest at $490.

The printing method also affects the price. Digital printing is the most budget-friendly option, with prices starting at $500 for a set of 100 invitations. Offset printing and thermography are more expensive, ranging from $800 to $1,800 for 100 invitations. Letterpress printing is even pricier, starting at $1,500 for 100 invitations, with each additional color adding 25% to the cost. Engraving, the most extravagant form of printing, costs a minimum of $2,000 for 100 invitations.

Other factors that influence the cost of wedding invitations include the weight and thickness of the paper, custom designs, and embellishments such as foil stamping, wax seals, and envelope liners. Couples should expect to spend around four to six percent of their overall budget on wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions