Designing Your Wedding Invitation: Where To Begin

There are many things to consider when starting a wedding invitation business. From choosing the right platform to market research, branding, and legalities, there are several steps to take before launching your own wedding stationery company.

One of the first steps is to decide on the style of invitations you want to sell and the platform you want to use. This could be a brick-and-mortar shop, your own website, or an online marketplace like Etsy. It's also important to familiarise yourself with wedding invitation etiquette and wording to ensure your invitations are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Another crucial step is to conduct market research to identify your target audience, analyse competitors, and establish a pricing strategy. This will help you create a unique value proposition that sets your business apart.

Additionally, you should also focus on branding and finding your niche. This could be creating invitations for destination weddings, eco-conscious couples, or those who prefer a more traditional or modern design.

Finally, don't forget about the legal and financial aspects of starting a business. It's important to register your business and separate your business finances from your personal finances to make tax season easier.

Choosing a platform: Etsy vs. your own website

There are pros and cons to both selling wedding invitations on Etsy and creating your own website. Etsy is an online marketplace for handmade goods, vintage items, and products aimed at DIYers. It is incredibly easy to set up and maintain an Etsy shop, and the startup costs and fees are much lower than owning your own website. You will also have access to over 80 million buyers, which can create a quick cash injection for your business. However, there is a learning curve to ranking in Etsy search, and you will have little to no control over the design and layout of your shop. Your brand can also get "lost" on Etsy, and as an online marketplace, you will have to abide by any new rules they implement.

Creating your own website gives you full control over your brand and its appearance online. A well-designed website can make your business look professional and established. You will also have full control over your company's terms and policies, and you will own your website. However, setting up your own website can take a lot of time, especially if you are creating a website for something like wedding invitations, which can have complicated pricing structures. The setup costs can also be high, and there is a lot of maintenance and management involved. Building an audience from scratch can also be challenging, and it can take years to build a loyal following.

One option is to do both. You can start by creating a simple website with a few pages about your business, and then add a "shop now" button or hyperlink that links directly to your Etsy shop. Then, when your business grows, you can add e-commerce capabilities to your website.

Designing your invitations

Designing your wedding invitations is a fun and creative process that will give your guests a sneak peek into your wedding aesthetic. Here are some tips to help you design beautiful and effective invitations:

Choose your style and platform

The first step is to decide on the style of invitations you want to create and the platform you want to use. If you plan to sell physical invitations, consider using a website builder like Squarespace, Shopify, or Wix, which offer customizable templates and easy customization. If you're thinking of offering digital downloads, Etsy is a great platform to reach a wide audience, especially for wedding stationery.

Know your niche

To stand out in the wedding invitation market, it's important to find your niche. Are you targeting modern couples with trendy, minimalist designs or traditional couples who prefer classic, formal invitations? Perhaps you want to specialize in destination weddings, eco-conscious couples, or multicultural celebrations. Knowing your niche will help you create designs that appeal to your target audience.

Learn graphic design

To design wedding invitations, you'll need to have some graphic design skills. Familiarize yourself with design programs like Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop, which are commonly used in the industry. These programs will allow you to create beautiful and professional-looking invitations that can be printed or downloaded.

Choose your materials

The materials you choose for your invitations will depend on your style and budget. Paper invitations are the most common, and there are various options to consider, such as smooth paper, cotton paper, or eggshell paper, each offering a different finish and texture. For a modern and elegant look, you might consider acrylic or vellum invitations.

Add personal touches

Make your invitations unique by adding personal touches that reflect your personality and style. You can include custom illustrations, photographs, or handwritten calligraphy. Monograms are also a popular way to add a special touch to your invitations. Get creative and don't be afraid to experiment with different colors, shapes, and formats to make your invitations stand out.

Consider printing options

If you plan to print your invitations yourself, you'll need to choose a printing method. Digital printing is cost-effective and offers design flexibility, while foil stamping and letterpress printing are more luxurious options that create a sophisticated impression. You can also outsource printing to a local stationery printer or use a print-on-demand service, which handles printing and shipping for you.

Pay attention to details

Don't forget the small details that will make your invitations functional and user-friendly. Consider the wording, font styles, and layout to ensure your invitations are easy to read and provide all the necessary information. Think about adding a unique touch, such as a wax seal, ribbon, or envelope liner that coordinates with your wedding theme.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to designing beautiful and memorable wedding invitations that will impress your guests and set the tone for your special day.

Selecting your materials

Selecting the materials for your wedding invitations is an important step in the design process. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you choose the right materials:

Paper Type and Finish

The type of paper you choose will impact the overall look and feel of your invitations. Some common options include:

• Smooth paper: This is usually the most cost-effective option and is ideal for photo printing.
• Cotton paper: Cotton paper is more luxurious and expensive, giving your invitations a sophisticated touch.
• Eggshell paper: Eggshell paper offers a nice middle ground with a slight texture. It's a good choice if you want something a little different from plain smooth paper.

You can also consider specialty papers like vellum, which has a translucent and waxy finish, or leather for a chic and unexpected touch, especially for Western-themed weddings.

Printing Method

The printing method you choose will affect the overall appearance and cost of your invitations. Here are some popular options:

• Digital printing: This is the standard printing method and is the most cost-effective. It allows for a wide range of colours and designs, including watercolour and bleed effects.
• Foil stamping: Foil stamping creates a luxurious and elegant look, especially when paired with metallic colours or holographic effects. It's perfect for adding shine to dark paper.
• Letterpress printing: Letterpress printing is similar to foil stamping but uses ink instead of foil. It's available in any ink colour but not in shiny metallic shades.

Envelopes and Seals

Envelopes are an important part of the overall presentation of your wedding invitations. Consider using envelopes that complement the theme and aesthetic of your invites. You can also add special touches like embossed seals or wax seals for a vintage touch. Don't forget to include your return address on the back flap of the envelope to ensure any undelivered invitations are returned to you.

Insert Cards

In addition to the main invitation, consider including insert cards with extra information for your guests. These can include RSVP cards, maps or directions to the venue, and details about the dress code or wedding website. Insert cards provide a convenient way to give your guests all the information they need without overcrowding your main invitation.

Pricing your invitations

Pricing your wedding invitations can be tricky, and there are many factors to consider. The good news is that you can create beautiful invitations without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you price your wedding invitations:

Consider the Type of Printing:

The method of printing you choose will significantly impact the cost. Digital printing is the most budget-friendly option, and you can expect to pay around $500 to $800 for a set of 100 invitations. Other options include offset printing, thermography, letterpress printing, and engraving, with prices ranging from $800 to $2000 for 100 invitations.

Choose your Paper Wisely:

The cost of paper can vary, but it typically doesn't make a huge difference unless you opt for luxury stationery crafted from high-end supplies. Heavier cardstock is generally more expensive than thinner paper. You can also look for affordable options like the standard paper stock, which often comes included in the price.

Keep an Eye on Extras:

The little extras can add up quickly. Foil accents, belly bands, envelope liners, and wax seals are all popular add-ons, but they come with an additional cost. Consider whether you need these extras or if you can create a beautiful invitation without them.

Shop Around:

Different vendors will offer varying prices, so it's worth shopping around to find the best deal. Basic Invite, for example, offers affordable invitations without compromising on quality. Ann's Bridal Bargains also provides inexpensive options, with invitations starting at just 99 cents each.

Set a Realistic Budget:

Before you start shopping, determine your overall budget for wedding stationery. This will help you stay focused and avoid overspending. Remember, you don't have to break the bank to create elegant and meaningful invitations.

Prioritize your Preferences:

Decide what is most important to you and your partner. Do you prefer a full suite or a mix of digital and paper elements? Are custom elements a must-have? Prioritizing your preferences will help you allocate your budget effectively.

Compare Packages:

When comparing prices, look at the entire invitation suite. Some vendors offer packages that include save-the-dates, RSVP cards, and other inserts. These packages can often be more cost-effective than purchasing each item separately.

Consider DIY Options:

If you're crafty, you may want to explore DIY options. Creating your own invitations can be a fun project, and it can also save you money. However, keep in mind that DIY invitations may require more time and effort.

Remember, the average cost of wedding invitations and stationery is around $530, but this can vary depending on your choices and location. By considering your options and setting a budget, you can create beautiful invitations that fit within your financial plan.

Marketing your business

Marketing is a challenging task, regardless of the industry. However, there are several strategies you can employ to effectively market your wedding invitation business. Here are some detailed and instructive tips focused on marketing:

• Identify your ideal client: Understand your target audience and create a profile of the client you want to attract. Consider their demographics, interests, and purchasing behaviour. This will help you tailor your messaging and design invitations that appeal to them.
• Network with wedding vendors: Collaborate with wedding planners, venues, and photographers. These professionals often have direct contact with clients and can refer your business. Build relationships by commenting on their social media posts, sharing their content, and offering them samples of your work.
• Utilise social media: Leverage platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and Facebook to showcase your designs and connect with potential clients. Use relevant hashtags, geotags, and interactive content to increase engagement.
• Create a website: Build a user-friendly website that showcases your portfolio, services, and contact information. Optimise it for search engines using SEO techniques to improve your online visibility.
• Sell on Etsy: Consider selling your invitations on Etsy, a popular marketplace with a built-in audience. Take advantage of its large user base by creating multiple listings with high-quality photos and utilising tags effectively.
• Participate in styled shoots: Collaborate with other wedding vendors on styled shoots, which are mock weddings that allow you to network and gain marketing photos. Research photographers and planners before participating, and don't be afraid to ask for specific shots or restyle your invitations if you're unhappy with the photos.
• Advertise in wedding publications: Get your work featured in wedding blogs, magazines, and publications to increase your reach. Reach out to popular platforms like Style Me Pretty, The Knot, and Martha Weddings.
• Build an email list: Encourage visitors to subscribe to your email list by offering incentives like discounts or free resources. This allows you to directly communicate with potential clients and promote new designs or special offers.
• Offer packages and add-ons: Increase your revenue by offering additional stationery services such as save-the-date cards, thank-you cards, and personalised guest books. You can also suggest add-ons like wax seals and custom envelope liners to enhance the invitation suites.
• Stay up-to-date with trends: Stay informed about the latest trends in the wedding invitation industry by reading industry magazines and blogs. This will help you create designs that appeal to modern tastes and ensure your offerings remain relevant.

Frequently asked questions