Printing 100 Wedding Invitations: How Much Does It Cost?

Planning a wedding can be an exciting but expensive affair. Wedding invitations are a key part of the process, but how much do they cost to print? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the printing method, paper type, design elements, and quantity. On average, couples spend between $300 and $700 for 100 wedding invitations and response cards, with prices ranging from $150 to over $1,000. The cost can also vary depending on the vendor, location, and level of customisation.

Printing methods

The cost of printing 100 wedding invitations varies depending on the printing method, degree of customisation, and other factors such as paper type and weight. Here is a breakdown of the different printing methods and their effects on cost:

Digital Printing

Digital printing is the most budget-friendly option, where a digital file is printed directly from a printer. This method is ideal for designs with multiple colours as it does not require manual ink mixing. The cost of digitally printing 100 invitation suites, including RSVP cards and envelopes, typically ranges from $500 to $800.

Offset Printing and Thermography

Offset printing, also known as flat printing, involves mixing inks and transferring the design to the invitation through a press. This results in a higher-quality print with precise colour shades. Thermography uses a special powder that fuses with wet ink to create a raised, textured effect. These methods usually cost between $800 and $1,800 for 100 invitation suites.

Letterpress Printing

Letterpress printing is a more artistic and labour-intensive technique, where the design is pressed into the paper using a raised, inked surface. Due to the custom presses required for each design and colour, letterpress printing is more expensive, with 100 invitation suites typically costing $1,500 or more.

Engraving

Engraving is the most expensive printing method, involving a multi-step process of reverse-etching the design onto a metal plate and pressing it into the paper. The paper is then inked, resulting in a formal, embossed look. Engraving costs at least $2,000 for 100 invitations.

DIY/Print at Home

For those on a tight budget or with artistic skills, designing and printing wedding invitations at home is an option. This method can cost $150 or more, depending on the materials and equipment used. However, it requires significant time, patience, and skills to produce high-quality invitations.

Paper types

The paper type you choose for your wedding invitations will depend on your budget and the impression you want to make. Here are some of the most common types of paper used for wedding invitations:

Cotton Paper

The most common and traditional type of paper for wedding invitations, often made from 100% cotton. Cotton paper is soft, making it excellent for letterpress, embossing, or engraving. However, it is more expensive than most other types of paper.

Linen Paper

Linen paper is slightly textured to mimic the surface of linen fabric, with finely textured lines that run horizontally and vertically across the page. It is less expensive than cotton paper while still providing an attractive finish and is available in heavyweight stocks.

Thick/Cardstock Paper

Thick paper and cardstock are heavier and more durable than lightweight paper. They are often used for printing invitations, business cards, and other special documents that require a more substantial feel.

Recycled Paper

Recycled paper is made from recycled materials and plants and is perfect for couples dedicated to having a low-impact, green wedding. However, it can be more costly than standard paper.

Matte Paper

Matte paper has a flat, non-reflective surface that makes it a great choice for thick, sturdy invitations that look crisp and clean.

Glossy Paper

Glossy paper has an elegant sheen and works great for making photographs pop. It is often used for marketing materials that need to stand out.

Bamboo Paper

Bamboo paper is softly textured, sustainable, and eco-friendly. It is ideal for certain printing processes, such as letterpress, embossing, or foil printing, where you want images and words to stand out against the page.

Parchment Paper

Parchment paper gives your invitations an aged, antique look with its sepia tones and faded edges. It is cloudy and subtly translucent, reminiscent of papyrus scrolls from ancient times.

Vellum

Vellum is a fine, smooth, translucent paper with a frosted finish. It is made from wood fiber and is sturdy enough to be printed on directly.

Laid Paper

Laid paper has a unique and elegant textured finish, characterised by criss-cross ribbed lines on its surface. This makes it highly suitable for crafting distinct stationery items such as letterheads, envelopes, and business cards.

Linen Finish Paper

Linen finish paper has a textured, fabric-like finish that adds a touch of sophistication to any document. It is often used for business stationery, resumes, and invitations.

Pearlescent Paper

Pearlescent paper is a fancy and elegant type of paper with a smooth texture and a lustrous finish. It usually has a thickness of 12.2 points and is often used for invitations, printed advertisements, and brochures.

In addition to these common types of paper, there are also various specialty papers that can be used for wedding invitations, such as mirror paper, metallic paper, translucent paper, and waterproof paper. The weight, texture, and finish of the paper will also play a role in the overall look and feel of the invitations.

Design elements

The design elements of wedding invitations are crucial in setting the tone for the wedding and making a statement. Here are some key design elements to consider:

Lines and Shapes

Lines and shapes play a fundamental role in the overall design of the invitation. Lines can be actual or implied. Implied lines are created when objects align in a certain way, forming a pattern that the human brain can recognise. Shapes, on the other hand, are any 2D areas with an edge, and they can be manipulated to appear three-dimensional. This manipulation of shapes can be achieved through value shifts, suggesting mass, volume, light, and shadow.

Value and Colour

Value refers to the darkness or lightness of an object, and any change in value creates a shift. This concept also applies to colour, where any hue can be manipulated to be darker or lighter. Using colour strategically can improve the chance of guests connecting with the content and understanding the intent of the invitation. However, it is important to use colour efficiently and avoid a visual mess. Established colour harmonies can enhance the visual unity of the message.

Texture

Texture can be tactile or visual. Tactile texture refers to the variation in the characteristics of a surface that can be felt through touch. Visual texture, on the other hand, is the appearance of a tactile surface on a 2D plane, often achieved through the use of patterns. Texture can be used to soften or energise the background of the invitation.

Space

Space, also known as "white space" or "negative space," is crucial in establishing and maintaining a clear understanding of the concept within the 2D environment of the invitation. It provides legibility and readability, ensuring that the information is presented clearly and concisely.

Printing Method

The printing method chosen can significantly impact the cost of wedding invitations. Digital printing, the most budget-friendly option, involves setting up a file on a computer and printing it. Offset printing and thermography are more expensive, starting at $800 for 100 stationery suites, as they involve manually mixing inks and transferring the design through a press. Letterpress printing, which involves custom presses for each design and colour, can cost upwards of $1,500 for 100 invitation suites. Engraving, the most extravagant form of printing, gives a formal, embossed look and costs at least $2,000 for 100 invitations.

Decorative Elements and Embellishments

Decorative elements such as foil printing, embossed monograms, rounded corners, and recycled paper can add a unique touch to the invitations but will increase the cost. Enclosures or insert cards, such as reception cards or information about additional wedding events, are also commonly included in the invitation suite.

Paper Type

The type of paper chosen can also affect the cost of wedding invitations. Cotton paper, the most common and traditional choice, is soft and suitable for letterpress, embossing, or engraving. However, it is more expensive than other types of paper. Linen paper is a more affordable option that provides a textured finish, mimicking the surface of linen fabric. Other specialty papers, such as bamboo, parchment, rice, vellum, and glassine, can also be used for a unique look and feel.

In conclusion, the design elements of wedding invitations involve various factors that contribute to the overall aesthetic and tone of the invitation. By carefully considering these elements and their impact on cost, couples can create elegant and informative invitations that align with their budget and style preferences.

Postage costs

To keep postage costs down, it's recommended to stick to standard letter sizes and use lighter-weight paper stock. 5"x7" cards are a good option for feeling substantial without requiring extra postage. Irregular shapes, square envelopes, and anything larger than 5"x7" will require extra postage.

For 100 save-the-date postcards, you can expect to pay a postage cost of around $51. For 100 wedding invitations and reply cards, the postage will be at least $132, as most invites require at least two stamps for the outer envelope. Remember to always take a completed invitation to the post office to ensure you have the correct amount of postage, and consider hand-cancelling your wedding invitations if your local post office offers this service for free.

The cost of postage for your wedding invitations can add up quickly, especially if you have a large number of guests or are sending invitations internationally. It's important to factor in these costs when creating your wedding budget.

Envelopes

Firstly, it is crucial to select envelopes that are the correct size for your invitations. Standard envelope sizes, such as 5x7 or A7, will typically be the most affordable option and can be mailed with regular postage. However, if you opt for square envelopes or those larger than 5x7, you may need to pay extra postage, increasing your overall costs.

The weight of the envelope is another factor that influences postage expenses. Heavier envelopes, especially those with thick cardstock or multiple enclosures, will require additional postage. Therefore, it is essential to consider the weight of your invitation suite when selecting envelopes to stay within your budget.

Additionally, decorative elements can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your envelopes but also increase costs. Envelope liners, for example, add a touch of elegance and protect coloured envelopes from rubbing off on the invitations. Calligraphy or hand-lettering of guest addresses is another way to elevate the look of your envelopes, but it can cost anywhere from $2 to $5 per envelope. Wax seals, custom stamps, and beautiful collections of stamps can also be used to adorn your envelopes, creating a luxurious impression but potentially increasing your budget.

When budgeting for envelopes, it is important to consider not only the cost of the envelopes themselves but also the postage required to mail them. Postage rates vary depending on the weight and size of the envelope, so calculating the total weight of your invitation suite, including any enclosures and decorative elements, will help you estimate the necessary postage.

In conclusion, envelopes play a crucial role in presenting your wedding invitations, and their cost can vary depending on size, weight, and decorative features. By considering these factors and comparing prices from different vendors, you can make informed choices to stay within your budget while creating elegant and impressive wedding invitations.

Frequently asked questions