Custom Wedding Invitations: Pricing Factors And Strategies

Pricing custom wedding invitations can be a tricky business, with so many factors influencing the final cost. From the printing method to the paper type, the design elements to the number of guests, there's a lot to consider when it comes to setting a price.

The good news is that there are options to suit every budget, with online wedding invitations offering a flexible and affordable solution for couples who want to save money without sacrificing style. On the other hand, for those who want to splash out, bespoke wedding invitation designers can create luxurious, hand-drawn, and calligraphed invitations that will wow guests.

So, whether you're looking for a simple and elegant package or a detailed and deluxe creation, read on to discover the key factors that will impact the cost of custom wedding invitations.

Paper type

Cotton Fiber

Cotton fiber paper is a high-quality option that allows for customisation with a letterpress. It is usually more expensive, costing around $29 for 100 sheets. This type of paper is often chosen for its strength and durability, and it has a soft feel to it. Cotton fiber paper absorbs ink well, resulting in richer colours.

Felt Cardstock

Felt cardstock is a thicker style of paper that costs more than standard card material. It typically costs around $22 for 100 sheets. This type of paper gives wedding invitations a sophisticated look and feel.

Matte

Matte paper is a popular choice for online brands due to its affordability and clean, crisp appearance. It is a good option for those who want a simple and elegant look for their invitations.

Glossy

Glossy paper is similar to matte but with a shinier finish. It is another affordable option that can add a touch of shine to the invitations.

Parchment

Parchment paper is the most affordable option, usually costing around $15 for 100 sheets. It has a thin, semi-translucent appearance with a slight marble look. Parchment paper can be easily layered with vellum to add depth to the invitations.

Vellum

Vellum is a see-through material that is great for layering. It typically costs around $17 for 100 sheets. It can be used as an overlay for invitations with illustrations, artwork, or photos.

Recycled Paper

Recycled paper, also known as kraft paper, has a rustic look and feel. It resembles coarse brown grocery bags but with a smoother texture. This type of paper is a popular choice for vintage or outdoor-themed weddings.

When choosing the type of paper for custom wedding invitations, it's important to consider the desired look and feel, as well as any specific printing requirements. The weight or thickness of the paper should also be taken into account, as heavier cardstock tends to give a more professional and luxurious impression.

Design elements

When it comes to the design elements of custom wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider that will influence the final cost. Here are some key aspects to keep in mind:

Photography

Including a favourite engagement photo or a custom crest with the couple's initials is a popular choice for wedding invitations. Thanks to digital technology, printing photos on invitations is now more affordable. This adds a personal touch and showcases the happy couple.

Engraving/Letterpress/Calligraphy

Engraving, letterpress, and calligraphy are all design techniques that can enhance the look of wedding invitations but will also increase the cost. Engraving and letterpress add a sense of elegance and sophistication to the invitations. Calligraphy, whether done by hand or through custom packages, can be a significant expense, often running into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Foil Stamping/Glitter/Wax Seals

Foil stamping is a way to make certain elements of the invitation, like the couple's names, stand out. It comes in various colours and adds definition to the cards. Glitter is another way to make invitations sparkle and is usually about 10% extra. Wax seals, whether traditional or sticker versions, are a classic way to seal envelopes and add a touch of luxury.

Colour

Colour is a fun way to add flair and showcase the wedding theme. Depending on the colour palette chosen, it can be free or add a significant cost.

Envelopes

Envelopes can be customised with colours, patterns, or liners. This adds to the aesthetic appeal and also protects the invitation. Envelope pricing varies, but it's good to note that most online companies include the cost of envelopes in the card stock price and may offer free address printing.

Additions

Additions like delicate bows, custom stamps, belly bands, or inner envelopes can set invitations apart. These usually cost no more than $0.20 extra per card. Other additions like RSVP cards, directions, itineraries, and reception information should also be considered, as they add weight to the envelope and increase postage costs.

Paper Type

The type of paper chosen will also impact the overall cost and feel of the invitations. Options include cotton fibre, felt cardstock, matte, glossy, parchment, vellum, glassine, handmade paper, recycled paper, and linen. Cotton fibre, for example, is more expensive due to its customisability with a letterpress, while parchment is the most affordable option.

In conclusion, the design elements of custom wedding invitations offer a range of choices to reflect the couple's style and theme. From photography to paper type, each element contributes to the overall cost and should be carefully considered to stay within budget.

Envelope pricing

The weight of your envelopes will also impact your postage costs. The average wedding postage cost is around $0.49 per envelope for envelopes under one ounce. This means that for every 100 cards you send, you can expect to spend around $50 on postage. Postage costs will be higher for envelopes that weigh more than an ounce or are being sent internationally.

If you're looking for ways to save on envelope costs, consider purchasing envelopes in bulk or choosing a lighter-weight envelope option. You can also skip the RSVP envelopes and use an online RSVP option instead.

Additions

• Belly bands - A thick strip of fabric or paper that holds the invitation and enclosures together inside the envelope. Belly bands can be customised with names or a monogram.
• Wax seals - A traditional wax seal is created by pouring liquid wax onto the envelope and stamping it to create a design. Nowadays, you can also use raised stickers with permanent adhesives that look authentic and save time.
• Customised stamps - Adding a customised stamp to your wedding invitations can be a great way to incorporate your theme or personal style.
• Inner envelopes - Using an inner envelope can add a touch of elegance to your invitation suite.
• RSVP cards - Including RSVP cards with your invitations is a convenient way for guests to respond to your invitation. They can also be used to collect information such as meal choices or dietary restrictions.
• Directions and itineraries - Providing your guests with directions or an itinerary can be helpful, especially if your wedding is taking place at an unfamiliar location.
• Reception information - If your reception is at a different location from the ceremony, it's a good idea to include a separate card with the reception details.

These additions can enhance the overall presentation and impact of your wedding invitations. However, keep in mind that each extra element will increase the cost, and the more your envelope weighs, the higher the postage will be.

Shipping costs

When it comes to shipping custom wedding invitations, there are a few factors that can affect the cost. The most significant factor is the weight of the invitation. Heavier invitations will cost more to send, and this cost increases further if the invitation is uniquely shaped. For example, square invitations typically cost more to send than rectangular ones.

The number of invitations being sent will also impact the shipping cost. On average, the wedding postage cost is around $0.49 per envelope for domestic shipping, and this price increases for international shipping. So, for every 100 cards sent, the cost is approximately $50. It's important to consider the weight of the envelope as well as the invitation itself, as the addition of RSVP cards, directions, or other inserts will increase the weight and, consequently, the postage cost.

It's worth noting that some online retailers include the cost of envelopes and postage in their pricing, so it's important to clarify whether postage is included when ordering custom wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions