Exploring The Average Cost Of Wedding Invitations

Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. From deciding on a venue to choosing a colour scheme, there are many factors to consider. One of the first steps in the wedding planning process is sending out invitations. The cost of wedding invitations depends on various elements, including the type of invitation, the level of customisation, materials used, and the number of guests. This article will explore the average cost of wedding invitations and provide insights into different options available to suit different budgets.

Printing methods

The printing method you choose for your wedding invites will have a significant impact on the overall cost. Here are some common printing methods and how they affect the price:

Digital Printing

Digital printing is the most budget-friendly option. It involves setting up a file on a computer and printing it without manually mixing ink. This method offers a wide range of colours and is suitable for those printing a large number of invitations. The cost of digitally printing a set of 100 invitations with all four cards ranges from $500 to $800.

Offset Printing and Thermography

Offset printing, or flat printing, is similar to digital printing but offers higher quality and more precise colour matching. Thermography is a similar process, but with the addition of powder to the ink to create a raised texture on the paper. For about 100 stationery suites, the cost of offset printing or thermography usually starts at $800 and can go up to $1,800.

Letterpress Printing

Letterpress printing is a more costly option due to the manual labour and custom presses required for each design and colour. For 100 letter-pressed invitation suites, expect to spend at least $1,500, with each additional colour adding approximately 25% to the total cost.

Engraving

Engraving is the most expensive and labour-intensive printing method, resulting in a formal, embossed look. For 100 engraved invitations, couples can expect to pay at least $2,000.

Calligraphy

Hiring a calligrapher to design the lettering for your invitations can be an expensive option, with packages often running into the thousands. A more affordable alternative is to add a custom element to your cards, which will generally add $100-$300 to your budget.

The printing method you choose will depend on your budget and the desired look and feel of your invitations. Be sure to consider the quantity of invitations needed, the level of customisation, and any additional design elements or embellishments that may increase the cost.

Embellishments

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping is a popular way to add a touch of elegance to wedding invitations. It involves adding foil accents, such as the names of the couple in copper, gold, rose gold, or silver. Foil stamping usually costs around $400 for gold foil accents on 100 invitations, while a full foil stamp on 100 invitations can cost upwards of $1,800.

Wax Seals

Wax seals are a traditional way to add a touch of luxury to wedding invitations. They can be created by pouring liquid wax onto the envelope and stamping it with a design, or by using raised stickers with permanent adhesives. Adding wax seals will cost approximately $200 to $300 per 100 invitations.

Belly Bands

Belly bands are thick strips of fabric or paper used to keep the invitation and enclosures together inside the envelope. They can be customized with the couple's names or a monogram. While prices can vary, a set of 100 insert cards, which can include belly bands, typically ranges from $150 to $500 depending on the printing method.

Envelope Liners

Envelope liners provide an aesthetic appeal and also function as a protective barrier to prevent the envelope color from rubbing off on the invitations. The price of 100 wedding invitation envelope liners ranges from $250 to $400, with solid colors on the lower end and patterns on the higher end.

Bevel Cut

A bevel cut is when the edge of the wedding invitation is cut at a 45-degree angle and then painted, making it more visible from the front. This technique is usually done on the main wedding invitation and costs around $400 for 100 invitations.

Edging

Edging involves painting the edge of the invitation paper in a thick stock. It adds a unique touch that guests will notice when they open the envelope. Edging costs approximately $150 for 100 wedding invitations.

When considering embellishments for your wedding invitations, it's important to keep in mind that these additional elements can significantly contribute to the overall cost. Each decorative element should be evaluated based on its importance to the overall design and the impact on the budget.

Paper types

The type of paper you choose for your wedding invitations can have a significant impact on the overall cost. Here are some common paper types and their average prices:

Cotton Fiber

Cotton fiber paper is a high-end option that allows for customisation with a letterpress. This paper type is on the expensive side, costing around $29 for 100 sheets.

Felt Cardstock

Felt cardstock is a thicker style of paper that costs more than standard card material. You can expect to pay around $22 for 100 sheets.

Matte

Matte paper is a popular choice for online brands due to its affordable price and clean, crisp look.

Glossy

Glossy paper is similar to matte but with a shinier finish. It is another affordable option for wedding invitations.

Parchment

Parchment is the most affordable option, with a cost of around $15 for 100 sheets. It can be easily layered with vellum for a more luxurious look.

Vellum

Vellum is a see-through material that is great for layering. It usually costs around $17 for 100 sheets.

Glassine

Glassine is similar to vellum in appearance but with a waxy finish. It is also priced at around $17 for 100 sheets.

Handmade Paper

Handmade paper is eco-friendly and trendy, and it won't break the bank. It typically costs around $20 for 100 sheets.

Recycled Paper

Recycled paper is another environmentally-friendly option, made from recycled materials and plants. It is priced similarly to handmade paper.

Linen

Linen paper is an affordable option for couples who want a high-quality look without sacrificing their budget. It usually costs around $17 for 100 sheets.

The weight and thickness of the paper will also impact the cost of your invitations. Heavier cardstock is more expensive than thinner types of paper. Additionally, the printing method chosen, such as letterpress or digital printing, will also affect the overall cost.

Design elements

The design elements of a wedding invite are what make your cards feel personal to you. These elements will tell your guests whether your wedding will be simple and elegant or a party for the decades. Here are some design elements to consider:

Photography

Do you have a favourite engagement shot that you can't wait to share with your guests? Thanks to digital technology, printing photos on wedding invitations is now affordable. It's also a great way to show off the happy couple!

Engraved Design

Engraving designs or lettering into your invitations will add to your overall price tag. That said, it's a great choice for couples with a roomy budget or for anyone who wants to make their invitations pop.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping lets your invitations shine the way they're meant to. Foil stamps come in many different colours and add definition to your cards. They usually only add a minimal amount to the cost.

Letter Pressed

Using a letterpress will increase the cost of your overall design but it's a beautiful way to give your invitations a classic look.

Glitter

Adding glitter to your invitations makes them sparkle. Glitter will generally add around 10% to your overall card cost.

Calligraphy

Some couples hire a calligrapher to custom design the lettering for their invites. This often comes in the form of an overall package with a much higher price. Some packages run into the thousands. Hiring a calligrapher to add a custom element to your cards will generally add $100-$300 to your budget.

Colour

Colour is a fun way to add flair to your wedding invites. It's also able to show key parts of your theme to your guests right from the beginning. Depending on the palette you use, colours can be free or add hundreds to your overall cost.

Extras and additions

There are many additional costs to consider when it comes to wedding invitations. These can include the cost of postage, RSVP cards, and other components that are added to your suite. Here is a list of some of the most common extras and additions that can increase the cost of your wedding invitations:

• Save-the-dates and response cards: These are often sent out in addition to the wedding invitations themselves and can add to the overall cost. Save-the-dates typically cost just over $100 per 100 cards, while response cards can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 per 100 cards for templates.
• Printing methods: The method of printing you choose can also affect the cost. For example, letterpress printing or foil stamping will usually be more expensive than digital printing.
• Custom artwork and calligraphy: Adding custom venue artwork or calligraphy addressing to your envelopes can increase the price.
• Embellishments: Decorative elements such as foil stamping, wax seals, belly bands, envelope liners, bevel cuts, and rounded corners can also add to the cost.
• Weight and size: The weight and size of your invitations can affect the postage cost. Heavier or larger invitations will typically cost more to send.
• Number of guests: The number of guests you invite will also impact the cost, as you will need to send an invitation to each guest or couple.
• Shipping costs: If you are ordering printed invitations, you will need to factor in the cost of shipping.
• Assembly: Some invitation designers may charge extra for assembly, so this is something to keep in mind if you are looking for a more hands-off approach.
• Inserts and enclosures: Depending on the size and type of wedding you are having, you may need to include additional information such as reception details, transportation options, accommodation, or itinerary. These extra cards can increase the cost of your invitations.

Frequently asked questions