Wedding Programs: Printing Options And Where To Get Them

Wedding programs are a great way to keep your guests informed about the events of your special day. There are several options available for printing wedding programs, depending on your budget and requirements. You can opt for online services like Canva, Vistaprint, or Smartpress, or visit local stores like FedEx, UPS, Office Depot, or Staples. These services offer customizable options for size, stock, weight, ink, and finish, ensuring you get the desired look and feel for your wedding programs.

Online printing services

There are several online printing services that you can use to get your wedding programs printed. Here are some options:

Zazzle

Zazzle offers an easy upload-and-print service, where you can upload your custom design or a template you purchased and get your programs printed at an affordable price. They have a wide variety of sizes available and frequently have sales. You can also buy ceremony program templates on their website, which are easy to edit and print.

Prints of Love

Prints of Love is a professional printing company that offers high-quality printing at affordable prices. They print items in a wide range of sizes and orientations, so all of your wedding details, from invitations to RSVP cards, can be ordered from their interface. They also offer customizations like rounded edges, and you can upgrade your order to linen paper. Additionally, they provide free 2-3 day US shipping and basic envelopes.

Vistaprint

Vistaprint is an inexpensive online printing option that provides quality paper goods. They often have sales and coupon codes available. You can use their site to print not only wedding invitations but also save-the-dates, thank-you cards, and any other printed materials you need for your wedding. They also offer their own templates if you don't want to design something yourself.

PrintingCenterUSA

PrintingCenterUSA offers custom printed programs in vivid full color on your choice of premium gloss or matte paper. They have a straightforward online program maker, complete with free templates and layouts, or you can upload your own print-ready PDF files. They have quick turnaround times, usually within 3-4 days from proof approval.

Staples

Staples offers custom invitation printing services, including wedding programs. They have various design options, such as photo- and illustration-based card designs, and different sizes and finishes to choose from. Envelopes are included, and they offer same-day printing for select cards if ordered before 12 pm.

In-store printing services

FedEx/Kinkos

FedEx/Kinkos offers a range of printing services and is known for its helpful staff and high-quality results. They can assist you with choosing the right paper size for your wedding programs and offer same-day printing for orders placed before 12 pm.

Staples

Staples is another popular choice for in-store printing, with many customers praising their reasonable prices and convenient services. They offer a variety of designs, including photo- and illustration-based card designs, and provide envelopes with their wedding program printing packages.

UPS and FedEx Type Stores

These stores often provide good-quality printing services at affordable prices. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, UPS and FedEx Type stores are worth considering.

Local Print Shops

Supporting small businesses is always a great idea, and local print shops can offer personalized services for your wedding program printing needs. They may have more flexibility in terms of turnaround times and customisation options.

Office Depot

Office Depot is another option for in-store printing, and while prices may vary, it's a good choice to explore for convenient and quick printing services.

When choosing an in-store printing service, it's a good idea to consider your specific needs, such as turnaround time, quantity, and any customisation requirements. It's also beneficial to compare prices and ask for samples to ensure you're getting the best value and quality for your wedding programs.

Paper type and weight

Paper Weight Considerations:

• Printing Process: The printing method, whether done at home or by a professional print shop, will influence the paper weight you can use. Most home printers can handle 80lb to 100lb cardstock, but it's essential to consult your printer manual for specific recommendations.
• Invitation Style: The style of your invitation will determine the weight you should choose. Flat invitation cards are typically made from heavier cardstock (80lb and up), while folding invitation cards use lighter stock (65lb-100lb) as they become thicker when folded.
• Postage: Keep in mind that heavier cardstock will require additional postage. If you want to save on postage, opt for lighter cardstock for your wedding programs.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference. Some prefer the heft and luxury of thicker cardstock, while others opt for the simplicity of lighter stock. Choose what aligns with your taste and budget.

Paper Types:

• Solid White Cardstock: This is the standard "cardstock" with a smooth, matte finish. It comes in various colours and weights, making it versatile for printing. 80lb works for most home printers, while 100lb might cause issues with some machines.
• Linen Cardstock: Linen cardstock has a delicate woven texture and a matte finish, resembling linen fabric. It adds a subtle touch of elegance to your wedding programs and can help hide any printing imperfections.
• Cotton Cardstock: Cotton cardstock has a smooth, absorbent surface, making it suitable for both laser and inkjet printing. It gives wedding invitations a modern and clean look and is considered "photo-safe," ensuring your programs stay pristine in your wedding album.
• Parchment: Parchment is a thin, semi-translucent paper with a subtle marbled appearance. It's perfect for layering with other types of cardstock, adding a unique touch to your programs.
• Felt Cardstock: Felt cardstock has a distinctive texture, falling somewhere between cotton and canvas in smoothness. It starts at 110lb, so it may not be compatible with all home printers, but it lends an air of sophistication to your programs.
• Kraft or Recycled Cardstock: With its rustic charm, Kraft cardstock resembles coarse brown grocery bags but with a polished finish. It's an excellent choice for vintage or outdoor-themed weddings.
• Vellum: Translucent vellum adds a touch of elegance when used alone or layered over artwork or photos. You can print directly on vellum or use it as an unprinted overlay to add depth to your programs.
• Coloured Cardstock: Coloured cardstock is incredibly smooth, without any texture or grain, and comes in a variety of colours and weights. It's perfect for creating a cohesive look when paired with coloured envelopes.
• Wood Grain Cardstock: Embossed with a subtle wood grain texture, this cardstock is ideal for accents like belly bands, tags, enclosure cards, and underlays. It adds a natural, decorative touch to your wedding programs.
• Laid Cardstock: This cardstock features subtle vertical ridges running along its length, giving it a soft, romantic feel. It's a unique choice for couples who want something a little different.

Design and printing costs

The cost of designing and printing wedding programs can vary depending on several factors, including the paper quality, printing method, quantity, and any additional customisation. Here is a breakdown of the costs involved:

Design Costs

The design cost of wedding programs can vary depending on whether you choose to design them yourself or hire a professional designer. Several online platforms, such as Canva, offer free or low-cost templates that you can use to design your own wedding programs. On the other hand, hiring a professional designer or working with a printing company that offers design services will incur additional costs. These costs can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand, depending on the complexity of the design and the experience of the designer.

Printing Costs

The printing costs for wedding programs depend on the quantity, paper quality, printing method, and any additional finishes or customisation. Here are some estimates based on different printing methods:

• Digital Printing: For 100 digitally printed wedding programs, you can expect to pay between $500 and $800. This method offers a budget-friendly option with a fast turnaround time.
• Offset Printing and Thermography: Offset printing and thermography typically start at $800 for 100 programs and can go up to $1,800. Offset printing provides a higher-quality finish, while thermography adds a raised texture to the ink.
• Letterpress Printing: Letterpress printing is a more expensive option, with costs starting at around $1,500 for 100 programs. This method involves creating custom presses for each design and colour, resulting in higher manual labour and supply costs.
• Engraving: Engraving is the most expensive printing method, with costs starting at $2,000 for 100 invitations. It gives a formal, embossed look to the wedding programs.
• Online Printing Services: Online printing services, such as Staples, offer more affordable options. For example, Staples provides packs of 25 custom-printed wedding programs with envelopes included, although the exact cost is not specified.
• Local Printing Stores: Printing wedding programs at local stores, such as FedExKinko's or a local printing company, can cost around 47 cents to 90 cents per program. These stores often offer convenient pickup options and may provide additional services like paper selection and folding.

Additional Costs

When budgeting for wedding program printing, consider the following additional costs:

• Custom Paper: Choosing cardstock, metallic papers, or specialty papers will increase the cost per program. For example, adding cardstock to a standard program can cost around 50 cents to 80 cents extra per program.
• Customisation: Customising your wedding programs with ribbons, eyelets, foil stamping, embossing, or other embellishments will add to the overall cost. These customisation options can range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000, depending on the complexity and quantity.
• Minimum Quantity: Many printing services require a minimum order quantity, typically around 50 programs. If you need fewer programs, you may have to pay a surcharge, which is usually around $25.
• Shipping and Taxes: Don't forget to factor in shipping costs and applicable taxes, which can add to the total expense.

When deciding on a printing option, consider the balance between cost and quality. While some couples may opt for simpler, more affordable wedding programs, others may prefer to invest in higher-quality paper, printing methods, and customisation to create a luxurious keepsake for their guests.

Same-day printing

If you're in a hurry to get your wedding programs printed, there are several options for same-day printing. Staples offers same-day printing for select cards if ordered before 12 pm. You can also try VistaPrint, which offers a variety of templates and customisation options and often has 50% off sales.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, stores like UPS, FedEx, and Staples offer good-quality printing services at reasonable prices. You can also support a small business by taking your business to a local print shop in your area.

For a more personalised option, Shutterfly offers a 100% happiness guarantee and best-in-class printing done in the USA. You can also try Etsy, where you can find a variety of wedding program designs and upload them to a printing service of your choice.

Remember to plan and order your prints with enough time to spare, as same-day printing may have earlier cut-off times and limited options.

Frequently asked questions