Wedding Invitation Weight: How Heavy For The Big Day?

Wedding invitations are a crucial part of wedding planning, but they can also be a source of stress for couples. One of the most common questions asked by soon-to-be newlyweds is, What weight should wedding invitations be? The answer depends on various factors, including printing methods, invitation style, postage costs, and personal preferences.

When it comes to printing, couples need to consider whether they will print their invitations at home or use a professional print shop. Most home printers can handle cardstock weights between 80lb and 100lb, but it's important to check the printer's specifications before purchasing cardstock. On the other hand, professional print shops offer different printing methods like offset printing, thermography, letterpress, and digital printing, each with its own weight recommendations.

Invitation style is another factor that influences weight. Flat invitation cards, for example, typically use heavier cardstock, while folding invitation cards use lighter cardstock. Postage costs should also be considered, as heavier invitations may require additional postage.

Ultimately, the weight of wedding invitations comes down to personal preference. Couples should choose a weight that fits their design, budget, and overall vision for their special day.

Weight and postage

The weight of your wedding invitations will determine how much you will need to spend on postage. In the US, the weight of paper is measured in pounds, whereas in Europe it is measured in grams per square meter (gsm). The weight of cardstock ranges from 45lb to 300lb or higher, with the higher the weight in pounds, the thicker the cardstock.

The weight of your wedding invitation will depend on the number of pieces in the suite, the weight of the paper used, and any embellishments included, such as wax seals or ribbons. A basic wedding invitation suite (mailing envelope, flat single-layer invitation, RSVP card, and RSVP envelope) will usually require just a regular First-Class Stamp. However, if your invitation weighs more than one ounce, you will need to pay extra for postage.

Invitation suites that weigh more than one ounce but less than two ounces will require a two-ounce stamp, which costs $1.01. Each additional ounce will cost an extra $0.28, up to three and a half ounces. Invitations with wax seals or ribbons will usually cost $1.29 or more. Square envelopes are also considered irregular and will cost an extra $0.20 per invitation for the first ounce. If your envelope is thicker than 1/4" at its thickest point, it will also require additional postage.

To avoid any issues with postage, it is recommended that you take a complete invitation to your local post office to be weighed and to check if it will fit through the thickness template.

Printing and paper type

The printing and paper type of your wedding invitations will depend on several factors, including your budget, personal preference, and printing method. Here are some tips to help you choose the right paper and printing type for your wedding invitations:

Printing Process

The printing process you choose will impact the type of paper you can use. If you plan to print your invitations at home, consider the paper weight capabilities of your printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb (216gsm) to 100lb (270gsm) cardstock, but it's important to check your printer's specifications before purchasing paper. Do a test print by starting with 80lb cardstock and gradually increasing the weight until you encounter issues like smudging or jamming.

If you prefer to use a professional print shop, contact several shops to understand their equipment, processes, and capabilities. Be sure to ask about their ability to accommodate your chosen paper's weight, thickness, and texture. It's a good idea to bring paper samples with you when discussing options with print shops.

Invitation Style

The style of your invitation will also influence your paper choice. If you're creating a flat invitation card, opt for a heavier weight cardstock of 80lb cover or higher. For folding invitation cards, choose a lighter weight paper, typically between 65lb and 100lb cover. If you're creating a layered card, keep the top layer light (80lb cover or less) and attach it to a heavier card (80lb cover or higher). Remember to consider the bulk of your invitation, especially if you have three or more layers.

Postage Costs

The weight of your wedding invitation will impact the postage cost. In general, any invite weighing over 1 ounce will require additional postage. To keep postage costs down, consider using lighter weight cardstock. Always bring a finished invitation to your local post office to determine the accurate postage required.

Personal Preference

Ultimately, the choice of paper weight and type is a personal one. Some people prefer thick, heavy cardstock, while others opt for lighter, thinner stock. Choose the paper that aligns with your design preferences and budget constraints.

Size and thickness

The size and thickness of your wedding invitations will determine the cost of postage, so it's important to keep this in mind when designing your invites. Standard USPS postage for an envelope that weighs one ounce or less is currently $0.73, with each additional ounce costing an extra $0.28. Most wedding invitation suites weigh between one and two ounces, so this is a good range to aim for when deciding on the size and thickness of your invites.

The weight of your invitation suite is determined by several factors, including the number of pieces, the weight of the paper, and any embellishments such as wax seals or ribbons. Basic wedding invitation suites typically include a mailing envelope, a flat single-layer invitation, an RSVP card, and an RSVP envelope. This type of suite usually weighs less than one ounce and can be mailed using a regular First-Class Stamp.

If your invitation suite includes multiple enclosure cards or pocket folds, it is likely to weigh just over one ounce and will require additional postage. Invitations with wax seals or ribbons can also increase the weight and will typically cost $1.29 or more to mail. Square envelopes are considered irregular and will also require additional postage, costing around $0.20 extra per invitation for the first ounce.

To ensure you have the correct postage for your wedding invitations, it is recommended to take a fully assembled invitation to your local post office to have it weighed and checked for thickness. They can advise you on the accurate postage required, taking into account any non-machinable elements that may require hand-cancelling, such as wax seals or custom envelope sizes.

Cost and budget

The cost of wedding invitations can vary depending on several factors, including the weight, size, thickness, printing method, and embellishments. Here are some key points to consider when budgeting for your wedding invitations:

• Weight of the Cardstock: The weight of the cardstock you choose will impact the overall cost. Cardstock weight for wedding invitations typically ranges from 65lb (176gsm) to 222lb (600gsm) or higher. Heavier cardstock will generally be more expensive and may require additional postage.
• Printing Method: Whether you print your invitations at home or use a professional print shop will affect your budget. Home printing is generally more affordable, but you need to consider the weight capabilities of your printer. Professional printing methods such as offset printing, thermography, letterpress, and digital printing have different cost structures.
• Invitation Style: The style of your invitation will impact the weight and cost. Flat invitation cards typically use heavier cardstock, while folding invitation cards use lighter cardstock. Layered invitations can vary in weight depending on the number of layers.
• Postage: The weight, size, and thickness of your invitations will determine the postage cost. Basic wedding invitation suites (mailing envelope, flat single-layer invitation, RSVP card, and RSVP envelope) typically require a regular First-Class Stamp (around $0.50-$0.55). Invitations weighing over 1 ounce will require additional postage, with each additional ounce costing more. Non-standard sizes, such as square envelopes, may also require extra postage due to manual sorting.
• Embellishments: Add-ons such as ribbons, twine, wax seals, or rhinestone accents will increase the weight and thickness of your invitations, resulting in higher postage costs.
• Budgeting: Don't forget to include postage in your wedding invitation budget. Take a complete sample invitation to your local post office to get an accurate estimate of the required postage. This will help you avoid the hassle and cost of buying incorrect stamps.

Design and embellishments

The design and embellishments of your wedding invitations are key to making a great first impression on your guests. Here are some tips to help you create elegant and stylish invitations:

Paper Type and Weight

The paper you choose for your wedding invitations sets the tone and style for your big day. There are various types of cardstock available, each offering a unique look and feel. Solid white cardstock is a popular choice as it's smooth, matte, and perfect for printing at home. Linen cardstock, with its delicate woven texture, adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Cotton cardstock is smooth, highly absorbent, and gives invitations a modern and clean appearance. For a rustic or vintage theme, consider kraft cardstock, which resembles coarse brown paper but with a polished finish. If you want your invitations to stand out, translucent vellum is a beautiful option and can be layered over artwork or illustrations. Wood grain cardstock is also a trendy choice for those who want a decorative touch.

When selecting paper weight, keep in mind that thicker cardstock gives your invitations a more luxurious feel. The standard weight for wedding invitations ranges from 65 lb to 110 lb or higher. For home printing, 80 lb to 100 lb cardstock is recommended to ensure smooth printing without jamming issues. If you're printing at a local print shop, you can go up to 100 lb or even 110 lb for a more professional look.

Printing Techniques

The printing technique you choose will also impact the overall design of your invitations. Home printing is a cost-effective option, but keep in mind the limitations of your printer in terms of paper weight and thickness. Experiment with different print quality settings to achieve the sharpest results. Textured cardstock can help hide imperfections and give a more refined finish.

Local print shops offer professional-quality prints at a lower cost than boutique printing. However, not all printers provide the same quality, and there may be restrictions on printing envelopes or oddly-sized cardstock. When choosing a local printer, opt for cardstock with a smooth texture, as too much texture can cause issues with the ink application.

Other printing methods like offset printing, thermography, letterpress printing, and digital printing can also be considered. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, so be sure to research and choose the one that best suits your invitation design and budget.

Embellishments

Embellishments add a special touch to your wedding invitations, making them more memorable. Wax seals, ribbons, and twine are popular choices, but keep in mind that these can increase the weight and thickness of your invitations, affecting postage costs. If you want to keep postage costs down, consider using paper belly bands or vellum instead of ribbons. Square invitations, while unique, are considered irregular by postal services and will also incur additional postage fees.

In conclusion, the design and embellishments of your wedding invitations should reflect your personal style and the overall theme of your wedding. By choosing the right paper type, weight, printing technique, and embellishments, you can create elegant and memorable invitations that will impress your guests.

Frequently asked questions