Custom Wedding Invitations: Mass Printing For Your Big Day

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of the planning process, but they can also be expensive. One way to save money is to have custom wedding invitations mass-printed. This involves creating a design or template and then sending it to a printing service to be produced in large quantities. There are many companies that offer this service, such as VistaPrint, Staples, and Gold Image Printing. By mass-printing custom wedding invitations, couples can save money without sacrificing quality or style.

Online vs. local printing services

When it comes to printing custom wedding invitations, you have the option of using online printing services or local printing companies. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here is a detailed comparison of online vs. local printing services to help you make an informed decision:

Online Printing Services:

• Convenience and Accessibility: One of the biggest advantages of online printing services is their convenience and accessibility. You can upload your designs and place orders from the comfort of your home, at any time. This is especially useful if you have a busy schedule or live in a remote area.
• Variety of Options: Online printers often offer a wide range of paper stocks, sizes, and printing techniques to choose from. This makes them a good choice if you are looking for a specific type of paper or a unique printing effect.
• Competitive Pricing: Online printers often have competitive pricing, and you may be able to find discounts or promotions that make them more affordable than local printers.
• Ease of Reordering: If you need to reprint your invitations or order additional ones, online printers usually store your files, making it easy to place a repeat order.
• Shipping Costs: Keep in mind that you will likely have to pay shipping costs when ordering from online printers, which can increase the overall cost.

Local Printing Companies:

• Customer Service: Local printing companies often provide superior customer service. You will have the opportunity to build a relationship with the printers, who will get to know you and your specific needs. They can offer personalized recommendations and expert advice throughout the printing process.
• Proofing and Accuracy: Local printers typically provide more accurate proofs, as they will review your designs with a critical eye for typos and design flaws. They can also provide printed proofs, allowing you to see and feel the final product before approving the order.
• File Submission and Management: Local printers can guide you through the file submission process, ensuring that your designs are uploaded correctly. They will also manage your previous print files and logos, making reprints and future projects more streamlined.
• Turnaround Time: Local printers may be able to offer shorter turnaround times, especially if you need rush service. They don't have to ship your order from a remote location, so you can often get your printed items faster.
• Complex Orders and Customization: Local printers are better equipped to handle complex orders and customization. They offer full-service printing, including design work, direct mail campaigns, and fulfillment. They can also accommodate specific paper stocks, sizes, and types of print orders that may not be available with online printers.
• Supporting Local Economy: By choosing a local printing company, you are supporting the local economy and reducing carbon emissions associated with transporting printed materials from far away.

In summary, if you have simple printing needs and cost is your primary concern, an online printer may be a good option. However, if you value customer service, accuracy, and the ability to customize your order, a local printing company might be the better choice. Additionally, by eliminating shipping costs and potential rush fees, you may find that local printers are more competitive in pricing than you expected.

Paper type and weight

Printing Process

The printing process is a crucial factor in determining the type and weight of paper to use. If you plan to print your invitations at home, you need to consider the paper weight capabilities of your printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80 lb to 100 lb cardstock, but it's essential to check your printer's manual for specific recommendations.

For professional print shops, different printing equipment and capabilities come into play. Popular methods include offset printing, thermography, letterpress printing, and digital printing, each with its own weight and texture recommendations.

Invitation Style

The style of your invitation also influences paper weight choices. Flat invitation cards, being a single sheet, typically use heavier cardstock of 80 lb or more. Folding invitation cards, on the other hand, are usually made with lighter stock, as they double in thickness when folded. A popular weight range for these is between 65 lb and 100 lb.

If you're creating a layered card or using pockets or wraps, you have more flexibility. The top layer should be light (80 lb or less), while the backer or pocket can be as heavy as you like. Just remember to keep bulk in mind if you have three or more layers.

Postage

Postage costs are another consideration. Invites weighing over one ounce will require additional postage. To keep costs down, opt for lighter cardstock.

Preference

Finally, it's essential to consider your personal preferences. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others opt for lighter, thinner stock. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can select the paper that aligns with your design and budget constraints.

Design and printing costs

The cost of designing and printing custom wedding invitations varies depending on several factors, including the quantity, paper type, printing method, and any additional customisation or embellishments. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with the design and printing of custom wedding invitations:

Design Costs:

If you choose to design the invitations yourself, you can find free or low-cost downloadable templates online from sites like Etsy, Canva, or Greetingsisland.com. These templates can be customised with your wedding details, and some designers offer further customisation of their templates for an additional fee. The cost of a template usually ranges from $15 to $20.

Alternatively, you can work with a professional designer or a company that offers graphic design services to create a completely custom design. This option will likely be more expensive, with costs depending on the designer's rates and the complexity of the design.

Printing Costs:

The printing costs will depend on the quantity of invitations you need, the paper type and weight, and any additional finishing options you choose. Here are some estimates based on user experiences and online sources:

• VistaPrint: Offers wedding invitation printing services with prices varying based on quantity, paper type, and additional customisation. Users have reported paying around $40 for 25 prints, $42 for 50 cards, and $52 for 100 double-sided invitations with pearlescent paper. VistaPrint also offers discounts and promotional codes that can reduce the cost.
• Staples: Provides printing services with costs depending on the paper type and quantity. Users have reported prices ranging from $10 for 25 cards to $1 per sheet, with the ability to print 2 invitations per sheet.
• Etsy: Offers a wide range of customisable templates, and some sellers include printing and shipping services. Prices vary depending on the seller, quantity, and paper type.
• Local Print Shops: Opting for a local print shop can provide more personalised services and higher-quality printing. Costs may vary depending on the shop, but it is recommended to get quotes from multiple shops to compare prices.
• Online Printers: Websites like CatPrint, Smartpress, and Prints of Love offer printing services with customisable templates. Prices can vary, but users have reported paying around $65 for 115 postcards and $40 for 50 prints.

Additional Costs:

When budgeting for custom wedding invitation printing, consider the following additional costs:

• Envelopes: You will need envelopes to match your invitation size. These can be purchased separately or included in invitation suites offered by some printing services.
• Postage: The weight and shape of your invitations will affect postage costs, so it is recommended to have a complete invitation weighed at the post office to determine the exact postage required.
• Assembly: Some printing services offer assembly services for an additional fee, or you can assemble the invitations yourself with the help of friends or family.
• Customisation: If you require further customisation beyond the template, such as foil stamping, edge painting, or duplexing, expect to pay additional fees.
• Paper Samples: It is advisable to test print your design on different paper samples before committing to a large order. The cost of paper samples will depend on the paper type and quantity.

Size and shape

When it comes to the size and shape of your wedding invitations, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the standard size for wedding invitations is 5" x 7", but they can range from 4" x 6" to 6" x 9", or you can even customise them to your desired dimensions. If you're looking for something more unique, you can also customise the shape of your invitations by providing die lines and requesting die-cutting services. This allows you to personalise your invitations into a shape that is meaningful to you and your partner.

Another important aspect to consider is the paper stock or cardstock. This refers to the thickness and texture of the paper. A popular option is a 120 lb. uncoated cardstock, which offers a nice balance between thickness and print quality. If you want something with a bit more texture, you could choose a linen or felt finish. For a more luxurious feel, consider a thicker option such as a 17.5 pt. cover with an eggshell ultra-white finish. If sustainability is important to you, there are also environmentally-conscious options made from recycled fibres, such as the 120lb Desert Storm Kraft paper.

In addition to the weight and texture of the paper, you should also think about the colour and finish. A semi-gloss finish can enhance the colour quality of digitally printed invitations, while an uncoated stock allows you to experience the unique feel and texture of the paper. If you want to showcase the texture of the paper, it's best to minimise the use of printed ink. On the other hand, if you want to make a bold statement, consider adding specialties like soft-touch laminate, velvet lamination, white ink on a dark backdrop, letterpressing, embossing, debossing, or foil stamping.

Finally, don't forget to consider the envelope size and shape as well. You'll want to choose envelopes that are slightly larger than your invitations to allow for easy insertion and removal. If you want to add a pop of colour, choose an envelope colour that is light enough so that the address can still be clearly seen. Envelope liners are also a great way to dress up your invitations and add a touch of elegance.

Customisation options

Custom wedding invitations can be designed and printed with a range of customisation options. Couples can choose to create their own design or use a template from sites such as Etsy, Canva, VistaPrint, or Shutterfly.

When customising your wedding invitations, you can choose the size, paper stock, colour printing, and any additional specialties. The most popular size for wedding invitations is 5" x 7", but they can range from 4" x 6" to 6" x 9", or a custom size. Paper stock options include semi-gloss, matte, fine finch, eggshell ultra white, royal Sundance felt ultra white, and more.

For colour printing, you can choose from full-colour printing on both sides or just the front. You can also add white ink to a dark backdrop or use letterpressing for a traditional feel. Additional specialties include soft-touch laminate, velvet lamination, embossing, debossing, foil stamping, duplexing, and edge painting.

Before finalising your design, be sure to proofread your invitation for any errors or mistakes. You can also create a digital proof to share with others and get their feedback. Once you're happy with your design, you can upload it to a printing service and select your desired quantity.

Frequently asked questions