Printing 100 Wedding Invitations: How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of printing 100 wedding invitations varies depending on the design, materials, and add-ons. The average cost ranges from $400 to $600, with some couples spending between $400 and $500, and others spending over $2,000. The type of paper, printing method, design elements, and embellishments all contribute to the final cost. Digital printing is typically the most affordable option, while letterpress, foil stamping, and engraving can be more expensive. Couples can also save costs by opting for electronic invitations or creating their own invitations.

Printing methods

The printing method you choose for your wedding invitations will depend on the style of your wedding, your budget, and the impression you want to make on your guests. Here are some of the most common printing methods to consider:

Digital Printing

Digital printing is the most affordable option and is usually the default for online wedding invitation companies. The letters are flat and don't require specialty paper, but you can upgrade the ink or paperweight for a more luxurious feel. This method offers a lot of flexibility in terms of design and colour choices, and it's also the fastest option, requiring just a few days for production and shipping.

Engraving

Engraving is a classic, high-end printing technique that gives your invitations a formal, luxurious look. It involves pressing the paper between an ink plate and an engraved metal plate, resulting in raised letters. Engraving is one of the most expensive printing methods and works best on thick paper, like cotton fibre. It also takes longer than other methods, with orders taking anywhere from two to six weeks to complete.

Thermography

Thermography is a more affordable alternative to engraving, creating a similar formal look at a lower price. It uses heat, ink, and powder to create raised lettering. It's a good option for couples on a budget as it works with most types of paper and is available in a wide range of colours, including metallic hues.

Letterpress

Letterpress is another formal printing method, where the letters are indented on the front of the invitation. It's a labour-intensive process that requires soft, bulky paper, like cotton fibre or bamboo. Letterpress is one of the priciest printing methods, and each colour used needs to be pressed separately, adding to the cost. The turnaround time can be anywhere from two weeks to two months.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping is a unique process that adds a metallic shine to your invitations. It uses heat to press foil onto the paper, creating a slight impression. This method is perfect for couples who want to impress their guests with luxury and elegance. Foil stamping is time-consuming and slightly more expensive than letterpress, and it may not be the best choice if you're working with a tight deadline.

Offset Printing

Offset printing, also known as lithography, is similar to digital printing but offers higher quality and is slightly more expensive. It uses a rubber cylinder to press ink onto the paper, resulting in flat letters and designs. This method is great for casual designs and works well with textured papers like cotton or bamboo.

Laser Cutting

Laser cutting is a high-tech skill that uses a laser to cut and etch shapes into various materials, including paper and wood. It's a popular choice for intricate, delicate designs and is often used for lace wedding invitations. However, it can be costly, especially for larger weddings, and the turnaround time is slower due to the complexity of the process.

Paper types

The paper type you choose for your wedding invitations will depend on several factors, including your budget, the printing method, and the overall tone you want to set for your wedding. Here are some popular paper options to consider:

Standard Matte

Standard matte paper is one of the most common types of paper used for wedding invitations, especially for digital printing. It has a non-reflective, flat surface that is perfect for printing DIY invitations at home. It is also the most cost-effective option.

Glossy Paper

Glossy paper has a slightly shiny, reflective surface that creates a sharp contrast of colours. It is a popular choice for both wedding invitation companies and at-home printers.

Cotton Fibre Paper

Cotton fibre paper has a soft, cotton-like texture and absorbs colour well. It is usually the preferred choice for specialty printing methods such as letterpress, engraving, and thermography. However, it often costs more than other types of paper.

Parchment Paper

Parchment paper has a subtle, marbled look and a highly textured surface. It can be easily rolled into a scroll, making it ideal for an antique or old-fashioned wedding theme.

Vellum

Vellum is a smooth, translucent paper that can be used as the invitation itself or as a design element such as an invitation overlay. It can also be used as a belly band to hold all the stationery together when removed from the envelope.

Recycled Paper

Recycled paper is a great option for couples planning an eco-friendly wedding. It is made from various recycled materials and plants and has a rustic, on-trend look.

Other Options

There are also other types of paper that can add a unique touch to your wedding invitations, such as wood grain cardstock, laid cardstock, and pearlescent paper. The weight or thickness of the paper is another important consideration, with heavier cardstock giving your invitations a more professional and luxurious feel.

Remember that the printing method you choose may also influence the type of paper you select. For example, letterpress and engraving may require thicker paper, while digital printing can be done on standard paper weights. Ultimately, the choice of paper for your wedding invitations depends on your personal preferences and budget.

Design elements

The design elements of your wedding invitations are what make your cards feel personal and unique. Here are some of the design elements you can choose from:

Photography

Do you have a favourite engagement photo that you can't wait to share with your guests? Thanks to digital technology, printing photos on wedding invitations is now more affordable.

Engraved Design

Engraving designs or lettering into your invitations will add to the overall price tag. It's a great choice for couples with a roomy budget or for anyone who wants to make their invitations stand out.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping lets your invitations shine. 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 a way to showcase key parts of your theme to your guests right from the start. Depending on the palette you use, colours can be free or add hundreds to your overall cost.

Envelope Pricing

Good news for couples who buy their cards online: most companies include the cost of the envelopes in the card stock price. Some even give you the choice of envelope customisation. If you do choose to buy envelopes separately, expect to spend around $15-$30 per 100 envelopes.

Additions

Do you want your wedding invites tied with a delicate bow? Do you love the look of a wax seal, customised stamp, belly band, or inner envelope? These smaller costs are additions that can set your invitations apart. These materials typically cost no more than $0.20 more per card at the post office in extra fees.

RSVP Cards, Directions, Itineraries, and Reception Information

These may not seem like big items, but the more your envelope weighs, the more it'll cost you in postage.

Extras and additions

There are a variety of additions you can include with your wedding invitations to make them stand out. These can be small touches, such as envelope liners, ribbons, wax seals, stamps, or belly bands, which help to keep the invitations together inside the envelope. These additions typically cost no more than $0.20 extra per card.

You may also want to include RSVP cards, directions, itineraries, and reception information for your guests. These additions will increase the weight of your envelope, and therefore the postage costs.

If you want to carry the design theme of your invitations through to the wedding day itself and beyond, you could include optional add-ons such as:

• Programs: Distributed at the ceremony, these outline the order of events and introduce the wedding party.
• Menu cards: Placed at each table during the reception, these detail the food and beverage options for the guests.
• Place cards and table number signs: These help guide guests to their assigned tables.
• Thank you cards: Sent after the wedding to express gratitude for guests' attendance and any gifts received.

The cost of these additions will depend on the number of invitations, the printing method, and any extra embellishments you choose. For example, a set of 100 insert cards can range from $150 to $500, depending on the printing method. Envelope liners for 100 wedding invitations typically cost around $250 to $400, with solid colours on the lower end and patterns on the higher end.

You can also add edging to your invitations, which costs $150 for 100 invitations, or a bevel cut, where the edge of the invitation is cut at a 45-degree angle and painted, costing around $400 for 100 invitations.

Another option is to add wax seals, which cost $200 to $300 per 100 invitations. You can use the traditional method of pouring liquid wax onto the envelope and stamping it, or opt for raised stickers with permanent adhesives that look authentic and save time.

If you want to include foil accents, such as your names in copper, gold, rose gold, or silver foil stamping, this will cost approximately $400 per 100 invitations for gold foil accents, and $1,800 for a full foil stamp on a set of 100.

Blind debossing and embossing, which create a depressed or raised effect in the paper, cost $300 to $400 for 100 wedding invitations.

The cost of these additions can quickly add up, so it's important to consider your budget and prioritize the elements that are most important to you.

Cost-saving measures

• Opt for a minimalist design: A simple design with a few select colours and fonts can keep costs down.
• Limit the number of colours and fonts: Using one or two colours and a single font can keep costs down, as some printing methods charge by the colour.
• Choose standard sizes: Go for standard wedding invitation sizes, such as 5x7 inches, to avoid paying extra postage.
• Skip the RSVP card: Instead, opt for a wedding website URL or QR code on the invitation for guests to RSVP.
• Send electronic invitations: Digital invitations can be just as beautiful as traditional paper invitations, and there are many websites that offer customisable e-vites.
• Do it yourself: If you're crafty, consider making your own invitations. You can purchase invitation kits at craft stores or design them yourself using software.
• Choose affordable materials: Instead of handmade paper or letterpress, consider using cardstock or digital printing.
• Limit the guest list: The more guests you invite, the more invitations you'll need to send out, so consider limiting the guest list to close family and friends.

Frequently asked questions