The Top Websites For Designing Your Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations are one of the first impressions you give your guests and an important part of your wedding planning. There are many websites that offer customisable wedding invitations, with some even offering free design assistance. Here are some of the best websites for designing and ordering wedding invitations.

Online vs Local Stationers

Wedding invitations are one of the first impressions your guests will have of your big day. The type and style of invitation you choose can set the tone for the entire event. From the font and colour palette to the graphics and paper type, there are many factors to consider when selecting the perfect wedding invitation.

There are many online retailers and local stationers to choose from when it comes to wedding invitations. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider your priorities and preferences before making a decision.

Online Options

Online wedding invitation websites offer a convenient and cost-effective way to design and order your invitations. Many sites provide a wide range of customisation options, allowing you to personalise the details of your special day. You can choose from various templates, colours, fonts, and graphics to create an invitation that reflects your unique style and theme.

Some popular online wedding invitation websites include:

• The Knot Invitations
• Minted
• Zazzle
• Papier
• Etsy
• Mixbook
• Paper Source
• Basic Invite

These websites often offer user-friendly interfaces, free samples, and quick production and delivery times. They are a great choice if you are looking for convenience, customisation, and a wide range of options to choose from.

Local Stationers

Working with a local stationer to create your wedding invitations can be a more bespoke and personalised experience. Local stationers can offer a high level of expertise and customer service, guiding you through the entire design process. This option is ideal if you are looking for a truly unique and customised invitation but do not want to spend too much time designing it yourself.

Local stationers often have a curated selection of designs to choose from, or they can work with you to create something completely bespoke. They can also offer additional services such as envelope addressing, matching stationery, and day-of pieces like menus and programs.

Both online retailers and local stationers have their advantages, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for convenience, customisation, and a wide range of options, online wedding invitation websites may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you prioritise a personalised experience and bespoke designs, a local stationer may be better suited to your needs. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose an option that reflects your style and helps you set the tone for your special day.

Cost

The cost of wedding invitations varies depending on the design, materials, and printing method chosen. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with wedding invitations:

Design Costs:

The cost of designing wedding invitations can vary depending on the level of customization and the talent of the designer. Some websites, like Minted, offer a wide range of designs by independent artists, which can be customized with different colours, fonts, and layouts. These designs typically start at $2 to $4 per invitation, but the price can increase with additional elements like foil detailing or letterpress printing. Etsy is another popular choice for wedding invitations, offering a vast selection of designs from independent creators. Prices on Etsy vary depending on the designer, materials, customization level, and shipping costs.

Printing Costs:

Printing costs can depend on the quantity ordered, paper type, and printing method. Online print shops like UPrinting, Zazzle, and VistaPrint offer affordable printing services, with prices as low as $0.84 per invitation. However, prices can increase with add-ons like magnets or custom envelopes. Local print shops or stationery stores may also offer printing services, but prices can vary, and there may be mixed reviews regarding their services.

Shipping Costs:

When ordering wedding invitations online, shipping costs should be considered. Standard shipping rates apply, and some companies offer different delivery options, with faster delivery at an additional cost. It's important to note that shipping costs can vary depending on the weight and size of the invitations, as well as the delivery location.

Postage Costs:

Postage costs are often overlooked but can add up quickly, especially when sending out save-the-dates and wedding invitations to a large number of guests. On average, postage costs can be around $0.55 per invitation, and this cost is doubled when sending out save-the-dates and invitations separately. It's also customary to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for RSVP cards, which adds to the overall postage expense.

Additional Costs:

There may be additional costs associated with wedding invitations, such as the cost of envelopes, response cards, place cards, and other stationery items. Some websites offer matching stationery suites, which can be purchased together at a discounted rate. It's also worth considering any design assistance or customization fees that may be charged by the designer or printing service.

In conclusion, the cost of wedding invitations can vary widely depending on the choices made and the level of customization desired. It's important to consider all the associated costs to ensure they fit within the allocated budget.

Design

The design of your wedding invitation is an important aspect of your wedding planning. It is the first impression that your guests will have of your wedding and can set the tone for the event. Here are some tips and ideas to help you create beautiful and stylish wedding invitations:

Choose a Design that Reflects Your Wedding Theme and Style:

Select a design that complements your wedding theme and style, whether it's rustic, modern, minimalist, or whimsical. The invitation should give your guests a preview of what to expect at your wedding.

Consider the Colour Palette and Graphics:

The colour palette and graphics on your invitation can represent your wedding theme. For example, a rustic barn wedding could feature wildflowers and distressed wood textures, while a city loft wedding might have a modern font and minimal design.

Pay Attention to the Font:

The font you choose will also convey the formality of your wedding. A classic and elegant font might be more suitable for a traditional wedding, while a modern or whimsical font could work for a less formal event.

Include Important Information:

Make sure to include all the necessary information in a clear and legible manner. This includes the date, time, venue, and any other relevant details your guests need to know.

Customization Options:

Many websites offer customization options, allowing you to personalize your invitations by changing the font, colour, layout, and even adding photos. This can make your invitations feel unique and special.

Paper Type and Envelopes:

The type of paper and envelopes you choose can also enhance the overall design. Consider the weight, texture, and colour of the paper to create a luxurious or minimalist feel. Don't forget to choose envelopes that complement the invitation design.

Timing and Budget:

Keep in mind the production and shipping times when ordering your invitations. Allow enough time for any unexpected delays. Also, consider your budget, especially if you have a large guest list. The cost of invitations can add up quickly, so look for websites that offer bulk discounts or affordable options.

• Minted: Offers a wide range of designs by independent artists, with custom options like silhouette, paper thickness, colour, and shimmer.
• Zola: A one-stop shop for wedding planning, with invitations to match any theme, from outdoor weddings to black-tie affairs.
• Zazzle: Millions of designs to choose from, with customisation options for colour, corner shape, paper type, and text.
• The Knot: Professionally designed suites with on-trend styles, including Art Deco, cowboy-chic, and disco-inspired options.
• Papier: Simple and modern designs, with customisation options for text, font, and layout.
• Etsy: A treasure trove of unique invitations designed by small businesses and independent creators, offering custom illustrations, acrylic invites, and more.
• Artifact Uprising: Contemporary and trendy designs with a focus on clean typography and modern elegance.
• Paper Source: Carries well-known designers like Monique Lhuillier and Rifle Paper Co., as well as their own signature invitations in classic and romantic styles.

Remember to choose a design that reflects your personal style and wedding theme, and don't be afraid to get creative and add unique touches to your invitations!

Production Time

Minted

Minted is a popular wedding invitation website that offers a wide range of unique designs by independent artists. Their production time is 6-9 business days for standard shipping. They also offer faster shipping options for an additional cost.

Zola

Zola is an all-inclusive website that offers a large collection of invitation designs, including options for elopements and vow renewals. Their production time is 5-10 business days.

Artifact Uprising

Artifact Uprising provides a sample kit with different designs, themes, and paper types. Their production time is 12-15 business days for standard shipping.

Zazzle

Zazzle is a digital design site that offers a wide variety of wedding invitation designs. Their production time is 4-7 business days for standard shipping, and they also offer instant downloads for digital invitations.

Shutterfly

Shutterfly allows you to design your own invitations and offers various formats, such as flat, gate-fold, and trifold. Their production time is 5-7 business days for standard shipping.

Etsy

Etsy is a marketplace with a wide range of wedding invitation options, from simple and modern to glamorous and acrylic designs. The production time varies depending on the independent seller, but it usually averages around 2-3 weeks.

The Knot

The Knot offers professionally designed wedding stationery suites in various styles. Their production time is 4 business days, and delivery is estimated to take an additional 5-10 business days.

Paper Source

Paper Source offers wedding invitation suites from well-known designers and their own brand. Their production time is 4 days, and shipping can take 1-12 business days, depending on the shipping method chosen.

Basic Invite

Basic Invite allows you to customize your invitations with different colours, shapes, text, and layouts. Their processing time is 2-3 business days, and standard shipping takes 12 business days.

Greenvelope

Greenvelope offers virtual wedding invitations with animated envelopes. While there is no production time, these invitations are not traditional and may end up in your guests' spam folders.

Extras

Envelope Seals

Add a touch of luxury to your invitations with wax seals. Whether you opt for a classic wax seal or a modern take, such as a metallic sticker, envelope seals are a beautiful way to secure your envelopes and delight your guests. You can even have them customised with your initials or a design that ties in with your wedding theme.

Envelope Liners

Envelope liners are a great way to add a pop of colour or a hint of pattern to your invitations. They can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, fabric or even dried flowers. Envelope liners are an unexpected surprise for your guests and a wonderful way to build anticipation as they open your invitation.

Ribbons or Belly Bands

Ribbons or belly bands are a stylish way to secure your invitation suite together, especially if you have multiple inserts. They can be made from a range of materials, such as silk, cotton or paper, and can be customised with wax seals or monogrammed stamps. They also add a tactile element to your invitations, creating a sensory experience for your guests.

Illustrations or Calligraphy

Custom illustrations or calligraphy can truly elevate your wedding invitations and make them one-of-a-kind. Consider having a custom illustration of your wedding venue, or a portrait of you and your partner, included on your invitations. Calligraphy can also add a touch of elegance and sophistication, with many stationers offering a range of handwritten or printed calligraphy styles to choose from.

Maps or Itineraries

If you're having a destination wedding or a wedding weekend with multiple events, consider including a custom map or itinerary for your guests. This can be a fun way to showcase your wedding location and give your guests a sneak peek of what to expect. It's also a practical addition that will help your guests navigate your wedding celebrations with ease.

Thank You Cards

It's always a good idea to send thank you cards to your guests after your wedding, so why not order them at the same time as your invitations? Many stationers offer matching thank you cards that coordinate with your wedding invitations, creating a cohesive suite of stationery. Ordering them in advance will save you time and ensure a seamless look for all your wedding correspondence.

Frequently asked questions