The Cost Of Wedding Invitations: How Much To Spend?

Wedding invitations can be a costly endeavour, with prices varying depending on the design, number of pieces, printing style, type of embellishments, and vendor. The cost of wedding invitations can range from $150 to $300 for 100-150 invitations, with letterpress or foil invitations being more expensive. Couples can expect to spend close to $600 on average for their wedding stationery, but there are ways to save money, such as using standard paper stock, opting for digital printing, or choosing semi-custom invitations.

Printing methods and styles

The printing method and style of wedding invitations can significantly impact their cost. Here are some common printing methods and styles to consider:

Digital Printing:

Digital printing is the most budget-friendly option. It involves setting up a file on a computer and printing it directly, eliminating the need for manually mixing ink. This method offers a wide range of colours and is suitable for those printing a large number of invitations. The cost for a set of 100 digitally printed invitations typically ranges from $500 to $800.

Offset Printing and Thermography:

Offset printing, also known as flat printing, involves transferring the design to the invitation through a press after mixing the inks. This method provides a higher-quality print and allows for more precise colour matching. Thermography is similar to flat printing but uses powder to create a raised texture on the paper. The cost for 100 offset or thermography-printed invitations usually starts at $800 and can go up to $1,800.

Letterpress Printing:

Letterpress printing creates a unique, handcrafted look by pressing paper into inked types or plates. It 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 pay at least $1,500, with each additional colour adding approximately 25% to the total cost.

Engraving:

Engraving is the most extravagant and formal printing method, giving invitations an embossed look. Due to the labour-intensive process, engraving is the most expensive option, with prices starting at $2,000 for 100 invitations.

Foil Stamping:

Foil stamping is a popular accent for wedding invitations, often used for the couple's names or other small details. While it is typically done as an embellishment, some couples opt for full foil stamp sets, which can be quite costly. A full foil stamp on 100 invitations can cost around $1,800, while gold foil accents would be closer to $400 per 100 invitations.

Blind Debossing and Embossing:

Blind debossing and embossing create depressions or raised text on the paper without using ink. These techniques are often used for monograms, family crests, or other small accents. The cost for 100 wedding invitations with blind debossing or embossing accents ranges from $300 to $400.

In addition to the printing method, other factors such as paper type, weight, and design details will also influence the overall cost of wedding invitations.

Design and number of pieces

The cost of wedding invitations can vary depending on the design and number of pieces included. Couples should expect to pay more for invitations with multiple enclosures, such as response cards, reception cards, and other inserts. The cost per invitation can range from a few dollars to over $20, depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used.

The type of printing method chosen will also impact the cost. Digital printing is typically the most budget-friendly option, while letterpress and engraving are more expensive choices. Couples can also add embellishments such as foil stamping, wax seals, or envelope liners, which will increase the overall cost.

It is worth noting that the price per invitation may decrease for larger orders. Additionally, couples only need to send one invitation per household, not per guest, which can help reduce costs.

When budgeting for wedding invitations, it is important to consider the desired design, the number of pieces required, and any additional enclosures or embellishments that may be desired. Comparing prices from multiple vendors and considering semi-custom or DIY options can also help couples stay within their budget.

Embellishments and add-ons

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping can be used to add a touch of luxury to your invitations. You can choose from a range of colours, including copper, gold, rose gold, or silver. Foil stamping is usually done as an embellishment, but some couples choose to have a full foil stamp set, which can be expensive as a plate has to be created. For a full foil stamp on a set of 100 invitations, you can expect to pay an additional $1,800. If you opt for just gold foil accents, the cost would be closer to $400 per 100 invitations.

Blind Debossing and Embossing

Blind debossing and embossing are processes that create a depression or raised text on the paper without using ink. This type of embellishment is often used for monograms, family crests, or other small accents. The cost for blind debossing or embossing is typically between $300 and $400 for 100 wedding invitations.

Wax Seals

Wax seals are a traditional way to add a touch of elegance to your invitations. The wax is poured onto the envelope and stamped to create a design. Nowadays, you can also use raised stickers with permanent adhesives that look authentic and save time. Adding wax seals will cost around $200 to $300 in additional costs per 100 wedding invitations.

Envelope Liners

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

Edging and Bevel Cut

Edging is when the edge of the invitation is painted, and it will cost around $150 for 100 invitations. A bevel cut is when the edge of the invitation is cut at a 45-degree angle and then painted, making it more visible from the front. This usually costs around $400 for 100 invitations.

Custom Artwork and Calligraphy

Custom venue artwork on the envelope liners or hand calligraphy for addressing the envelopes can also add to the cost of your invitations.

Location, guest list and vendor

The cost of wedding invitations varies depending on several factors, including location, guest list, and vendor.

Location

The average cost of wedding invitations in the US ranges from $400 to $1000, with the average couple spending around $530. However, prices can vary depending on the region. For example, the average cost of wedding stationery in the Mid-Atlantic region is $610, while in the West, it is $490. The Northeast/New England, Southwest, South/Southeast, and Midwest fall somewhere in between.

Guest List

The size of your guest list will also impact the cost of your wedding invitations. The more guests you invite, the more invitations you will need to send out, which will increase the overall cost. Additionally, the cost of postage will depend on the weight and shape of your invitations, with heavier invitations typically costing more to send.

Vendor

The vendor you choose to create your wedding invitations will also affect the cost. Digital printing is usually the most budget-friendly option, with prices ranging from $0.35 to $2.00 per invite. More elaborate printing techniques, such as engraving or letterpress, can cost significantly more, with prices ranging from $15 to $20 per invite.

Save-the-dates and other stationery

Firstly, the cost of save-the-dates can be reduced by designing them yourself and printing them at home or at a local office supply store. This can bring the cost down to under $50. If you want to order them, there are many online companies that offer affordable options, such as Magnet Street, which has sales that bring the cost down to $0.84 per card. VistaPrint, Shutterfly, and Minted also offer a range of prices and can help you save money.

When it comes to invitations, the cost can vary depending on the design, number of pieces, printing style, and embellishments. Letterpress or foil invitations are more expensive, while digital printing is a more budget-friendly option. The number of invitations you need also makes a difference, as you only need one per household, not per guest. It's also important to remember that postage costs can add up, so consider the weight and shape of your invitations when budgeting.

If you're looking for ways to save money, consider using a semi-custom design, which can give you a luxurious look at a lower price. Comparing prices from different vendors and taking advantage of discounts and promo codes can also help reduce costs. Some couples choose to include their wedding website on the invitation and ask guests to RSVP online, eliminating the need for response cards and saving on postage.

Overall, the cost of save-the-dates and other stationery can vary widely depending on your choices, but with careful planning and research, you can find options that fit within your budget.

Frequently asked questions