Crafting Cute Wedding Invitations On A Budget

Wedding invitations can be expensive, but they don't have to be. There are plenty of ways to save money on wedding invites without compromising on style. One way to do this is to opt for all-in-one invitations, which combine the invite, envelope, and RSVP cards into a single package. This can save money on printing and assembly costs, as well as postage since they tend to be smaller and lighter. Using plain envelopes is another way to save money, as is taking advantage of sales and discounts. If you're willing to put in some extra effort, you can also design and print your own invitations at home. This gives you the freedom to customize your invites exactly how you want while saving money.

Opt for all-in-one invitations

If you're looking for an elegant yet thrifty option for your wedding invitations, all-in-one invitations are a great choice. This style of invitation combines all the necessary information into a single, sleek package, making it a cost-effective option. Here's why opting for all-in-one invitations can be a smart decision:

• Cost Efficiency: All-in-one invitations offer excellent value for money. By combining the invitation wording, RSVP card, and other details onto a single sheet, you save on printing and assembly costs. This choice can be especially economical if you're working with a tight budget.
• Convenience: With all-in-one invitations, you streamline the invitation process. They usually include a detachable RSVP postcard or panel, eliminating the need for separate RSVP cards and envelopes. This not only simplifies the process for your guests but also makes it easier and quicker to collate responses.
• Postage Savings: Due to their compact and lightweight design, all-in-one invitations can result in significant postage savings. Their smaller size often means lower postage rates, which can make a noticeable difference when sending out a large number of invitations.
• Unique Design: All-in-one invitations stand out from traditional invitation suites. Their innovative format allows for creative layouts and designs, ensuring your invitations are memorable. You can opt for rustic, floral, or vintage themes, or even include photos for a modern, personalised touch.
• Ease of Mailing: The convenience of all-in-one invitations extends to the mailing process. Their folded format makes them easy to seal and send, and you can choose from clear seals or elegant envelope seals to secure them. No more licking envelopes!
• High Quality: Just because all-in-one invitations are budget-friendly doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality. Many vendors offer luxurious paper options, such as Basic Invite's 120lb cardstock, ensuring your invitations feel premium despite their affordable price.

• Minted: Minted offers a unique collection of all-in-one invitations that fold up and can be sealed without envelopes. They include a tear-off RSVP postcard and provide free guest addressing, ensuring a polished look.
• Ann's Bridal Bargains: For an incredibly affordable option, Ann's Bridal Bargains offers seal-and-send all-in-one invitations for just $0.99 each, including an RSVP card. Their designs are high-quality and customisable.
• The Knot: The Knot features a wide range of all-in-one invitations with various themes, including botanical, vintage, and rustic styles. Prices start at $2.29 each for a quantity of 100.
• Zazzle: Zazzle is a great choice for all-in-one invitations due to their diverse range of designers and styles. They often have sales, and you can find options starting at $2.08 each, offering significant savings.

Make strategic design swaps

One of the best ways to save money on your wedding invitations is to make clever swaps that give you the aesthetic you want without the hefty price tag. Here are some strategic design swaps you can make to create cheap but cute wedding invitations:

• Opt for flat printed wedding invitations instead of raised printing methods like thermography or letterpress. This will allow you to achieve a similar look without breaking the bank.
• Choose digital printing over luxe printing techniques like letterpress and foil stamping. Digital printing is a cost-effective alternative that produces high-quality stationery quickly. You can still add a little something extra, such as designs with faux foil or bold typography.
• If you want to include foil in your design, consider using foil stamps only on certain elements of the invitation, such as the couple's names or important details, instead of foil stamping the entire invitation.
• Play around with different fonts and colours to add a personal touch to your invitations without increasing the cost. Many online stationery sites offer customisation options, allowing you to create unique invitations that reflect your style.
• Instead of individual stationery items, such as menu cards, opt for larger signs or one per table. This will reduce the number of items you need to order, saving you money.
• If you're set on including RSVP cards, consider digital RSVPs instead. Many couples are now opting for digital RSVPs, which are not only budget-friendly but also more convenient for guests.

Use plain envelopes

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are a few ways to save money. One option is to use plain envelopes. This can be a great way to cut costs without sacrificing style. Here are some tips for using plain envelopes for your wedding invitations:

• Choose the right size: Make sure you select envelopes that are the correct size for your invitations. Standard invitation sizes include C5, C6, DL, 5x7, and square. Smaller RSVP card sizes such as C7 & 62 x 94mm are also available.
• Consider the colour: Plain envelopes come in a variety of colours, including white, ivory, cream, and various pastel shades. Select a colour that complements your wedding theme or invitations.
• Add a personal touch: Plain envelopes can be customised with your guests' names and addresses, either handwritten or printed. You could also add a wax seal or custom sticker to add a special touch.
• Double envelope: Wedding invitations traditionally include an inner and outer envelope. The outer envelope is for mailing and includes the guest's address, while the inner envelope contains the invitation and is left blank. Using a plain inner envelope with a decorative outer envelope can be a great way to save money without sacrificing style.
• Go digital: Instead of physical invitations and envelopes, consider sending digital invitations via email. This option can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Using plain envelopes for your wedding invitations can be a great way to save money without sacrificing style. With the right size, colour, and personal touches, you can create elegant and affordable wedding invitations.

Choose predesigned stationery

If you're looking for cheap but cute wedding invitations, one option is to choose predesigned stationery. This can be a more affordable option than custom-designed invitations, and it's a great way to save money on your wedding budget. While custom-designed invitations can be unique and personalised, predesigned stationery can be just as eye-catching and beautiful. You can often find predesigned stationery with a variety of different designs, styles, and themes to choose from, so you can still find options that fit your wedding aesthetic and personality.

One advantage of choosing predesigned stationery is the convenience and speed of the process. With custom-designed invitations, you may need to go back and forth with a designer, which can take time and effort. Predesigned stationery is usually readily available, and you can simply select the design you like and place your order. This can be especially helpful if you're short on time or don't want to spend too much time on the invitation process.

Another benefit of predesigned stationery is the ease of customisation. Many online stationery sites offer customisation options, such as allowing you to play around with different fonts, colours, and wording. This means you can still add personal touches and make the invitations feel like they reflect you and your partner's style. For example, you could use casual wording that reflects your playful nature or choose colours that match your wedding palette.

When selecting predesigned stationery, it's important to consider the cost per invitation and the minimum order quantity. Compare prices between different websites and designers to find the best deal. Additionally, look for sites that offer discounts, coupon codes, or sales events, as these can help you save even more money. Remember to factor in any additional costs, such as shipping or customisation fees, to get an accurate idea of the total expense.

By choosing predesigned stationery, you can strike a balance between affordability and style. You can find beautiful, high-quality invitations that fit your budget and still impress your guests. With the right predesigned stationery, you'll be able to set the tone for your wedding celebration without breaking the bank.

Pay attention to paper weight

When creating your own wedding invitations, the paper weight is an important consideration. The weight of the paper will impact the final look and feel of your invitations, as well as the printing process and postage costs. Here are some tips to help you choose the right paper weight for your DIY wedding invitations:

Know Your Printer's Capabilities

Before selecting the paper weight, it's crucial to understand the limitations of your printer. Most home printers can handle 80 lb (216 gsm) to 100 lb (270 gsm) cardstock. However, it's always a good idea to consult your printer's manual for specific recommendations and instructions. Start with a test print on 80 lb cardstock and gradually increase the weight until you encounter issues like smudging or jamming. Then, choose a weight that is slightly lower to avoid any problems.

Choose Weight Based on Invitation Style

The style of your invitation will also influence the paper weight selection. If you're creating a flat invitation card, opt for a heavier weight, typically 80 lb cover and above. This will give your invitations a more luxurious and professional feel. On the other hand, if your invitation will be folded, go for a lighter weight, usually between 65 lb and 100 lb cover. This ensures that your invitation doesn't become too bulky after folding.

Consider Postage Costs

Keep in mind that the postage cost will increase if your invitations exceed a certain weight. To save on postage, it's advisable to choose a lighter cardstock. As a rule of thumb, any invite weighing over one ounce will require additional postage. Always take a finished invitation to your local post office to determine the exact postage required.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice of paper weight depends on your personal preference. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others opt for lighter, thinner stock. If you're aiming for a more elegant and sophisticated look, go for a higher weight. However, if you want to keep costs down and don't mind a simpler appearance, lighter cardstock can be a suitable choice.

Frequently asked questions