Planning Wedding Invites? Budgeting Tips For Couples

Wedding invitations can be expensive, but they don't have to be. The average couple spends close to $600 on wedding stationery, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing quality or style. This guide will explore how to budget for wedding invitations, from DIY options to finding affordable online retailers, so you can stay within your financial means while still achieving your dream aesthetic.

Shop around for the best deals

Wedding invitations can be expensive, but there are ways to shop around for the best deals. Here are some tips to help you save money:

• Compare prices online: Websites like StylishWedd and Basic Invite offer a wide range of affordable wedding invitations. Compare prices and look for discounts or promotions to get the best deals.
• Choose all-in-one invitations: All-in-one invitations combine the invitation, RSVP card, and other details on a single sheet of paper or cardstock. This can save you money on printing and assembly costs. They are also usually smaller and lighter, which can reduce postage expenses.
• Skip the extras: You can save money by excluding extra inserts like RSVP cards, directions, and maps. Instead, include this information on your wedding website. Basic Invite also offers free premium envelopes with each order, so take advantage of that!
• Standard postage: Ensure your invitations can be mailed with a standard stamp. Taking a full invitation suite to the post office for weighing before sending is always a good idea.
• Order in bulk: Some websites, like Ann's Bridal Bargains, offer invitations at a set price, whether you need 25 or 250. Ordering in bulk can help you save money per invitation.
• Use standard paper: Opting for standard paper stock instead of upgrading to heavier or textured paper can save costs. Unless you're set on fancy paper, the standard option should be more than sufficient.
• Remove foil: If you're looking at invitations with foil, consider removing this feature. Selecting a non-foil colour option can reduce the cost per card by up to 30%.
• Shop early: Start scouting stationers 9 to 11 months before the wedding. This will give you ample time to compare prices and find the best deals without rushing.

Opt for online RSVPs

If you're looking to save money on your wedding invitations, opting for online RSVPs is a great option. Here are some reasons why:

• Cost Savings: One of the most significant advantages of choosing online RSVPs is the cost savings. Traditional RSVP cards can be expensive, especially if you have a large guest list. By opting for online RSVPs, you eliminate the need to pay for extra cards, envelopes, and postage. This can result in significant savings, which can be allocated to other aspects of your wedding budget.
• Convenience and Efficiency: Online RSVPs offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency. With online RSVPs, your guests can easily respond to your invitation with just a few clicks. This saves them time and effort, and you won't have to worry about guests losing or forgetting to send back physical RSVP cards.
• Eco-Friendliness: Choosing online RSVPs is an environmentally friendly option. By reducing the need for paper products, envelopes, and postage, you're decreasing your wedding's carbon footprint. This is not only beneficial for the environment but also aligns with the values of many modern couples who are conscious of their impact on the planet.
• Instant Tracking and Management: Online RSVP platforms often provide instant tracking and guest management features. This means you can easily keep track of who has responded, their meal preferences, and other important details, all in one place. No more manually inputting responses or chasing down missing RSVPs!
• Flexibility and Customization: Online RSVP tools offer a high level of flexibility and customization. You can create custom questions, follow-up queries, and collect important information from your guests. This level of customization ensures you gather all the details you need to plan your wedding effectively.
• Matches Your Wedding Website: Opting for online RSVPs allows you to seamlessly integrate your wedding website and invitation suite. Many couples choose to include their wedding website on their invitations, and guests can then easily navigate to the site and respond online. This creates a cohesive experience for your guests.

When deciding whether to opt for online RSVPs, it's essential to consider your guest list. If you have older guests who may not be comfortable with technology, you can always offer the option of both online and paper responses. However, for tech-savvy guests, online RSVPs can be a convenient and cost-effective choice.

Choose standard paper stock

When budgeting for wedding invitations, choosing standard paper stock can be a great way to save money. Here are some tips and things to consider when making your decision:

Printer Compatibility

First, it's important to consider the type of printer you will be using. Home printers are often limited in the paper thickness, or weight, they can handle. It's recommended to review your printer's instructions and do a test print to determine its maximum capacity. Start with 80# cardstock and gradually increase the weight until you encounter issues like smudging or jamming. Most home printers can handle 80# to 100# cardstock, with some able to accommodate weights up to 120#.

Cost Savings

Opting for standard paper stock can result in significant cost savings. Heavier paper weights, such as those above 150#, typically require professional printers, embossers, or letterpress printing, which can be more expensive. Additionally, thicker cardstock may require additional postage if your invitations exceed one ounce in weight.

Paper Quality

Standard paper stock does not mean sacrificing quality. The quality of standard paper stock is excellent, and it is thick enough to give your invitations a professional look and feel. The right paper stock will depend on your budget, preference, and the overall tone you want to set for your wedding.

Paper Weight

When it comes to paper weight, a good rule of thumb is that the higher the weight in pounds, the thicker the cardstock. Cardstock weight typically ranges from 45# to 300# or higher. For wedding invitations, a weight of 80# to 100# is commonly used, with some invitations going up to 110# or 120#.

Paper Type

Solid white cardstock is a popular choice for wedding invitations. It is medium to heavyweight paper made from tree pulp, with a smooth, matte finish. It is available in various colours and weights, making it perfect for printing at home and suitable for most printers. Linen cardstock is another option that adds a delicate woven texture and can help hide imperfections or quality issues.

Paper Finish

If you're looking for a smooth finish, cotton cardstock is a great option. It is relatively smooth, highly absorbent, and suitable for both laser and inkjet printing. Cotton cardstock gives invitations a clean, modern look and is considered "photo-safe," making it ideal for scrapbooks and wedding albums.

In summary, choosing standard paper stock for your wedding invitations can be a practical and cost-effective option. By considering factors such as printer compatibility, paper weight, and finish, you can create elegant and professional-looking invitations while staying within your budget.

Compare prices with other couples

One of the best ways to budget for wedding invitations is to compare prices with other couples. This can help you understand the average cost of wedding invitations and whether there are any deals or discounts available. Here are some tips to help you compare prices:

Research Online:

Start by searching online for wedding invitation pricing. Check out websites that offer wedding invitation services and take note of their prices. Compare the prices of different websites to get a sense of the average cost. Look for websites that offer discounts, coupons, or promotions. For example, some websites might offer a certain percentage off your total order or provide discounted prices for bulk orders.

Consider Different Styles and Features:

When comparing prices, pay attention to the different styles and features offered by each company. Some companies might offer more affordable options with simpler designs, while others might specialise in luxurious invitations with intricate details. Consider what type of invitations you want and compare prices for similar products.

Read Reviews:

Reading reviews from other couples can give you insights into the quality and value of the invitations. Look for reviews that mention pricing and whether the invitations were worth the cost. This can help you determine if a company offers good value for money.

Ask for Quotes:

If you have specific requirements or want a more personalised service, consider contacting companies directly to request quotes. This way, you can get a clear understanding of their pricing structure and any additional costs that may be involved.

Compare Packages:

Many companies offer wedding invitation packages that include additional items such as RSVP cards, envelopes, or thank-you cards. Compare these packages across different companies to see which one offers the best value for your needs.

Timing and Sales:

Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or promotions. Wedding invitation companies might offer discounts during certain times of the year, such as Black Friday or during the off-season for weddings. You can also sign up for newsletters or follow their social media pages to stay updated on any exclusive deals or promotions they may offer.

By following these steps, you can effectively compare prices with other couples and make informed decisions about your wedding invitation budget. Remember to consider your own unique needs and preferences while also being mindful of cost-saving opportunities.

Use sales and discounts

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's easy to be surprised by the cost. However, there are ways to save money by using sales and discounts. Here are some tips to help you budget for your wedding invitations:

Shop Around for Deals

It's worth shopping around to find the best deals on wedding invitations. Some companies offer sales and discounts, so keep an eye out for those. For example, Basic Invite has an "Affordable Wedding Invitations" section on their website, where you can find invitations starting at $0.72. Ann's Bridal Bargains also offers wedding invitations for just 99 cents, with free response cards included.

Use Discount Codes

Many wedding invitation companies offer discount codes that can help you save money. For instance, Basic Invite offers a 15% discount on your entire order when you use the code "15FF51" at checkout. Similarly, Ann's Bridal Bargains often has promo codes for percentage-based discounts on any purchase. StylishWedd also offers an extra 5% discount with the code "SP05."

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk can often lead to significant savings. Many companies offer discounted rates for larger orders, so if you have a big guest list, this could be a great way to save money.

Choose Standard Options

Another way to save money on wedding invitations is to choose the standard options. For example, you can use the standard paper stock, which is usually included in the price. Basic Invite also offers free premium envelopes with each order, so you can skip the upgrade and stick with the free option.

Skip the Extras

You can also save money by skipping the extras, such as RSVP cards, directions, and maps. Instead, include all the necessary information on your wedding website. This will reduce printing and postage costs.

By following these tips and keeping an eye out for sales and discounts, you can significantly reduce the cost of your wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions