Get Wedding Invitations Fast: Best Places For Quick Orders

Planning a wedding can be a stressful task, and finding wedding invitations at the last minute can be challenging. However, there are several options available for couples who need to get their hands on wedding invitations quickly. Many online platforms, such as VistaPrint, Staples, and Etsy, offer customizable wedding invitation templates with fast printing and delivery services. These websites often provide a wide range of designs, from classic and elegant to whimsical and fun, allowing couples to find invitations that match their wedding theme and style. Same-day printing services are also available from select providers if orders are placed before a certain time. Additionally, couples can opt for digital invitations, which can be instantly downloaded and sent to guests, saving time and money.

Online vs. Physical

When it comes to wedding invitations, you have the option of going the traditional route with physical, paper invitations or opting for the more modern approach of digital invites. So, which is the better choice? Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of each option.

Physical Wedding Invitations:

Physical invitations have long been the traditional choice for wedding stationery. They are often seen as more formal and elegant, setting the tone for a sophisticated event. There's also the added benefit of creating a physical keepsake for both the happy couple and their guests. If you're looking for intricate designs and bespoke options, physical invitations are the way to go. You can choose from a variety of paper stocks, finishes, and textures to create a truly luxurious invitation suite. Additionally, older guests or those who are less tech-savvy may prefer a physical invitation as it is more familiar to them.

However, one of the main drawbacks of physical invitations is the cost. The expenses can quickly add up, from the paper and printing to postage and additional features like insert cards and return envelopes. It's also important to consider the environmental impact of paper waste. If sustainability is important to you, physical invitations may not be the best choice. There's also a small chance that mailed invitations could get lost or damaged in transit, which can be frustrating for both the couple and their guests.

Digital Wedding Invitations:

Digital wedding invitations are a modern and cost-effective alternative to traditional paper invitations. One of the biggest advantages is the affordability – digital invites can be designed and sent for free or at a significantly lower cost compared to physical invitations. They are also more environmentally friendly, reducing unnecessary paper waste. With digital invites, you don't have to worry about lost or damaged invitations as they are delivered directly to your guests' inboxes.

Another benefit of digital invitations is the convenience they offer. They make it easier for your guests to respond, as they can simply RSVP with the click of a button. This also means you'll receive responses much quicker, making it easier to finalize seating charts and confirm details with vendors. Some digital invitation platforms even offer handy tracking features and automatic reminders for overdue RSVPs.

However, one of the main drawbacks of digital invitations is that they are less traditional and may not be suitable for formal events. Certain guests, particularly the elderly, may be offline or have difficulty navigating digital invitations and RSVPs. There's also the potential issue of your invitations ending up in spam folders or being inaccessible to guests without reliable internet access. Additionally, you won't have a physical keepsake to hold on to or display on your wedding day.

In conclusion, both physical and digital wedding invitations have their own sets of pros and cons. When deciding which option is best for you, consider your budget, the level of formality you wish to convey, and the environmental impact of your choices. Ultimately, it's important to choose the option that aligns with your values and vision for your special day.

Budgeting

Set a Realistic Budget:

Firstly, determine how much you can realistically allocate for your wedding invitations. The average couple spends close to $600 on their wedding stationery, but this doesn't mean you need to spend that much. Decide on a budget that works for you and your partner, keeping in mind that there are many affordable options available.

Compare Prices and Look for Deals:

Shop around to compare prices and look for deals or discounts. Some websites offer promotions and discount codes, so take advantage of those to save some money. For example, Basic Invite has a 15% off discount code, and Ann's Bridal Bargains offers sets of invitations with free RSVP cards for just 99 cents each.

Choose Standard Paper:

Using the standard paper stock included in the base price is a great way to save money. This option is usually excellent quality and will not look cheap. However, if you prefer a heavier weight or textured paper, you can still upgrade for a small additional cost.

Opt for Digital RSVPs:

Including RSVP cards with your invitations can significantly increase the cost. Instead, consider creating a wedding website where guests can RSVP online. This saves money on printing and postage, and it's also more convenient for your guests.

Mail with Standard Stamps:

Ensure that your invitation set can be mailed with standard stamps. Taking a full invitation suite to the post office for weighing before sending is always a good idea to avoid unexpected costs.

Look for All-in-One Invitations:

All-in-one invitations combine the invitation, RSVP card, and other details onto a single sheet of paper or cardstock. This option can save on printing and assembly costs, as well as postage, since they are typically smaller and lighter.

Timing is Everything:

Ordering your invitations in advance can help you save money on rush shipping or express delivery fees. Additionally, consider sending your invitations 4-8 weeks before your wedding, or even earlier if you have a destination wedding or a holiday weekend celebration. This will help you avoid the need for expedited shipping.

Customization:

While completely custom invitations may be more expensive, you can still add personal touches to affordable options. Look for websites that offer customizable templates, or include your own monogram or a photo to make your invitations unique without breaking the bank.

Remember, your wedding invitations should reflect your style and personality, but they don't have to break your budget. With careful planning and a bit of creativity, you can find beautiful and affordable options that fit your wedding vision.

Timing

The timing of your wedding invitations is crucial to ensure your guests have enough notice and can plan to attend. Here are some tips and guidelines for sending out your wedding invitations:

Save-the-Dates

It is common to send out save-the-date cards to your guests, especially if you are planning a destination wedding or have many guests travelling from out of town. Save-the-dates are typically sent out six to eight months before the wedding, or even up to a year in advance for destination weddings. This gives your guests plenty of time to make travel arrangements and request time off from work.

Sending Invitations

The recommended timeline for sending out wedding invitations is no less than two to three months before the wedding. This allows your guests to plan their schedules and make any necessary arrangements. It also gives you enough time to address the envelopes and ensure they arrive on time. Some sources suggest sending invitations at least eight weeks before the wedding, so ordering the cards a few weeks before this date is ideal.

RSVP Deadline

When setting the RSVP deadline, allow enough time for guests to respond and for you to finalise details with your venue and vendors. Typically, the RSVP deadline is about two to four weeks before the wedding. This gives you a better idea of the final guest count for catering and seating arrangements.

Day-of Stationery

Don't forget to plan and order any day-of stationery, such as menus, place cards, and wedding programs. These should be ordered with enough time to arrive before your wedding day. Finalise the details for these items, such as the menu choices, seating arrangements, and ceremony order, to ensure everything is accurate and up-to-date.

Thank-You Cards

After the wedding, it is customary to send thank-you cards to your guests. These can be sent out within a few months after the wedding. Thank-you cards are a thoughtful way to express your gratitude for your guests' attendance and any gifts they may have given.

Design

Wedding invitations are an important part of wedding planning, and there are many ways to design them to reflect your style and theme. Whether you're looking for something classic, rustic, elegant, or whimsical, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas and considerations for designing your wedding invitations:

• Choose a Theme and Colour Palette: Select a theme that aligns with your wedding style and preferences. This could be rustic, elegant, minimalist, or any other style that speaks to you. Based on your chosen theme, select a colour palette that complements it. You can choose specific colours or go with a general aesthetic, such as pastel or vibrant hues.
• Select the Right Paper: The type of paper you choose can enhance the overall design of your invitations. Opt for classic options like matte or gloss finish, or explore unique textures such as linen, cotton, or recycled paper for a more tactile experience. Consider the weight and thickness of the paper as well, as this will impact the overall look and feel of the invitation.
• Incorporate Illustrations and Photos: Visual elements can make your invitations stand out. Consider including illustrations or photos that reflect your theme. For example, if you're having a garden wedding, you might include floral illustrations or a photo of the happy couple surrounded by nature.
• Play with Typography: The font you choose for your text can also contribute to the overall design. Select a font that is legible but also aligns with your theme. For instance, a classic script font might work for an elegant wedding, while a modern sans-serif font could be perfect for a minimalist or contemporary celebration.
• Add Embellishments: Embellishments like belly bands, vellum jackets, wax seals, and ribbons can elevate the design of your invitations. These additions can be chosen to match your wedding colours and theme, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel.
• Consider Customisation: Many companies offer custom design services, allowing you to work directly with a designer to create one-of-a-kind invitations. You can also request custom monograms or illustrations to be included in your design, making your invitations even more personal.
• Match Your Stationery Suite: If you want a cohesive look, consider extending your invitation design to other wedding stationery items like save-the-date cards, RSVP cards, thank you cards, and even menus or programs. This creates a unified aesthetic across all your wedding correspondence.
• Explore Printing Options: Depending on your chosen design, you can explore various printing options such as letterpress, foil stamping, or embossing. These techniques can add a touch of luxury and texture to your invitations. Discuss these options with your chosen printer to see what best suits your design and budget.
• Think About Envelope and Mailing Options: Don't forget to consider the envelopes and mailing options for your invitations. You can design custom envelopes with printed addresses or opt for unique envelope liners. Think about adding protective layers, such as tissue paper, to ensure your invitations arrive safely and beautifully to your guests.
• Seek Inspiration: If you're unsure where to start, look for inspiration online or through wedding invitation templates. Websites like Canva offer free printable wedding invitation templates that you can customise. You can also browse through different paper stocks, finishes, and design ideas to spark your creativity.

Remember, your wedding invitations should reflect your personality and the style of your wedding. Take the time to explore different design options, request samples, and work with designers to create invitations that you will cherish for years to come.

Printing

Wedding invitations should be sent out at least eight weeks before the event, so it's important to get them printed and delivered with plenty of time to spare. Here are some printing options to help you get your wedding invitations fast:

Same-Day Printing

Staples offers same-day printing for select invitations if ordered before 12 pm. The invitations are available in 5" x 7" flat or folded and 4" x 7.75" flat, with a range of customisation options, including photo and illustration-based designs, gloss finish, backside printing, and rounded corners.

Fast Printing Services

Fast Printing USA offers a range of custom wedding invitation printing services, with free fast delivery. They have a variety of paper stock options, including luxury textured paper, clear acrylic, and soft cotton. They also offer a range of printing techniques, such as full-colour printing, gold foil, and letterpress.

Online Printing Services

There are several online printing services that offer affordable and fast printing for wedding invitations:

• Prints of Love: High-quality and affordable printing with free 2-3 day shipping. They offer a range of sizes, paper types, and customisation options, such as rounded edges.
• Vistaprint: An inexpensive option with frequent sales and coupon codes. They offer a wide range of paper goods, including wedding invitations, save-the-dates, and thank-you cards.
• Zazzle: Thousands of wedding invitation templates to choose from, with the option to upload your own custom design. They also offer coordinating pieces like table numbers and signage.
• Overnight Prints: High-quality, environmentally-conscious printing services, using recycled paper and waterless printing. They offer fast printing for save-the-dates, wedding invitations, and thank-you notes.

Frequently asked questions