Custom Wedding Invitations: Where To Get Them Made

Wedding invitations are one of the most important parts of wedding planning. They are the first impression of your wedding and set the tone for the entire event. The invitation's font, colour palette, graphics, orientation, paper type and envelope all work together to give your guests a glimpse of what to expect. While some couples prefer to design their own invitations, others may opt for custom-made invitations from online retailers or local stationers. This article will explore the various options available for creating beautiful and personalised wedding invitations.

Online vs. In-Store

There are a variety of options for couples looking to design their wedding invitations, with both online and in-store options available.

Online Options

Online wedding invitations are a cost-effective and time-efficient way to check a major item off your wedding to-do list. Many online retailers offer a range of designs, from classic and traditional to modern and minimalist, and some even offer custom designs. Online options also often include additional stationery, such as matching RSVPs, thank-you cards, and envelopes. The ordering process is usually simple and user-friendly, allowing couples to personalise their invites with photos, fonts, colours, and text. Online wedding invitations can also make tracking RSVPs easier and more convenient for guests.

Some popular online retailers for wedding invitations include:

• VistaPrint
• The Knot Invitations
• Minted
• Zola
• Artifact Uprising
• Zazzle
• Etsy
• Papier
• Mixbook
• Paper Source
• Basic Invite

In-Store Options

For couples who prefer a more hands-on and bespoke approach, working with a local store or stationer is also an option. This option may be more suitable for those who want something truly unique and don't mind spending extra time on the design process. In-store options may also be preferable for those who want to see and feel the invitations before making a purchase. Working with a stationer can also be beneficial for couples who want a consistent aesthetic across their wedding stationery, including save-the-dates, menus, and thank-you cards.

Some popular in-store options for wedding invitations include:

• Paper Source: Offers a wide variety of designs, including stationery from well-known brands and designers.
• Dear Annabelle: Offers handmade invitations with a personal touch, such as handwritten notes.
• Smythson: Known for sleek and elegant stationery designs that will stand the test of time.

Paper vs. Digital

Wedding invitations are one of the most important parts of wedding planning as they set the tone of your big day. The internet has opened up a whole new world of options for couples, with paper and digital invitations both offering a range of benefits.

Paper Wedding Invitations

Paper invitations are a traditional choice, offering a tangible souvenir of your wedding day. They are often more expensive than digital invitations, but this is because you are creating a beautiful keepsake for you and your guests. Paper invitations can be a great way to support small creative businesses, with many specialising in crafting bespoke wedding stationery. These can be designed to be totally unique to you, from a watercolour depiction of your venue to a modern, minimalist design with gold foil details.

From a practical point of view, paper invitations require you to collect everyone's addresses, which can be time-consuming. However, this also means that it will be easier to thank your guests for their gifts after the wedding. It is also worth considering that not all of your guests will be tech-savvy, and some may prefer a physical invitation.

Digital Wedding Invitations

Digital wedding invitations are a modern and cost-effective option. They can be designed and sent online for free or at a low cost, which is ideal if you are trying to trim your wedding budget. They are also more environmentally friendly, reducing unnecessary paper waste. Another benefit of digital invitations is that they won't get lost or damaged in the mail, and you can track RSVPs online. This makes it more convenient for your guests to respond, and you will receive RSVPs more quickly.

However, digital invitations are less traditional and may not be suitable for a formal wedding. Some guests, particularly older relatives, may not be comfortable with digital invitations and online RSVPs. Additionally, you won't have a physical keepsake of your invitations.

Hybrid Wedding Invitations

A happy medium between paper and digital invitations is to send digital save-the-dates, followed by traditional paper invitations, and direct guests to RSVP online via your wedding website. This way, you get the benefits of streamlining the RSVP process and keeping your guests' details together, while also having a physical keepsake.

Cost

The cost of wedding invitations can vary depending on the level of customisation, paper type, printing method, and quantity ordered. Basic invitations can start as low as $1 each, while luxury invitations can cost $20 or more per invitation. Here is a more detailed breakdown of the cost of wedding invitations:

Online Retailers:

Online retailers such as VistaPrint, Greetings Island, The Knot, Minted, Zazzle, Papier, Etsy, Mixbook, Paper Source, Basic Invite, and Amazon Handmade offer a wide range of wedding invitation options. The price per invitation typically ranges from $1 to $6, depending on the paper type, printing method, and quantity ordered. Many of these websites offer customisation options, such as foil detailing, letterpress, and unique paper types, which can increase the cost. Some websites also offer free design assistance, samples, and free shipping, which can help reduce the overall cost.

Local Stationers:

Working with a local stationer or designer can be a good option for couples who want a truly bespoke invitation but don't want to spend a lot of time designing the invites themselves. The cost of custom wedding invitations from a local stationer can vary depending on the designer's expertise, the complexity of the design, and the materials used. Custom invitations can start at around $2 per invitation and can go up to $20 or more for luxury options. Local stationers may also offer package deals that include additional stationery items, such as RSVP cards, envelopes, and thank-you cards, which can help reduce the overall cost per item.

DIY Invitations:

For couples on a tight budget or those who want complete creative control, designing and printing wedding invitations at home can be a cost-effective option. The cost of DIY invitations will depend on the materials purchased and the quantity produced. Basic invitations can be created for as little as $0.50 each, while more elaborate designs with specialty papers and printing methods can cost upwards of $1 per invitation. Keep in mind that DIY invitations can be time-consuming and may require a steep learning curve to achieve professional-looking results.

In summary, the cost of wedding invitations can range from $1 to $20 or more per invitation, depending on the level of customisation, paper type, printing method, and quantity ordered. Online retailers often offer the most affordable options, while local stationers provide a more bespoke service at a higher price point. DIY invitations can be a cost-effective option for couples on a budget, but they require a significant time investment.

Design

When it comes to wedding invitations, the design possibilities are endless. The font, colour palette, graphics, orientation, paper type, and envelope you select all work together to set the tone for your big day. Whether you're looking for something rustic, modern, playful, or elegant, there are many online retailers and local stationers that can help you create your dream wedding invitations.

• Blooms & Botanicals: This trend incorporates floral patterns, pressed botanicals, and lush greenery for a romantic and nature-inspired look.
• Vintage Vibes: Soft pastel colours and delicate vintage motifs like bows and ribbons evoke a sense of timeless elegance.
• New Rustic: This trend combines rustic charm with modern sophistication, featuring subtle southwestern elements like sunflowers and warm tones.
• Dreamy Destinations: The invitation design is tailored to reflect the wedding's destination or theme, such as beach, desert, ranch, or mountain weddings.
• Bold Type: This trend plays up the text on the invitation, with the couple's names or a fun phrase as the focal point, often paired with a neutral colour palette and mixed typography.
• Pretty & Playful: This design emphasises non-traditional layouts, whimsical fonts, and bold colours, perfect for a casual wedding celebration.

Online Retailers

If you're looking for convenience and customisation, there are many online retailers that offer wedding invitation design and printing services. Here are some popular options:

• The Knot Invitations: Offers professionally designed wedding stationery suites in various styles, including Art Deco, cowboy-chic, and disco-inspired themes. You can also request free design assistance to customise colours, fonts, and layouts.
• Minted: Features customisable wedding invitations designed by independent artists and graphic designers, including options for different paper types, sizes, and silhouettes. They also offer a Luxe Letterpress category for a textured look.
• Zazzle: Boasts millions of designs from independent creators, with customisation options for colour, corner shape, paper type, and text. Most wedding invites also have matching paper goods available.
• Papier: Specialises in floral wedding invitations, offering customisable text, font, and layout options. They also provide user-friendly design interfaces and free samples.
• Etsy: A treasure trove of unique wedding invitation designs from small businesses and independent creators, offering customisation options for all budgets and styles, including digital invites.
• Mixbook: Allows you to add photos to your wedding invitations and choose from a variety of paper options, all ethically sourced from sustainable forests.
• Paper Source: Provides a wide variety of wedding invitation suites, including designs from well-known brands and designers. Their website offers easy-to-use design tools for customising invitations with your preferred wording, typeface, and layout.
• Basic Invite: Offers free guest address printing and self-sealing envelopes. You can browse designs by theme and customise the colour, shape, text, layout, and wording. You can also upload your own design and use their editing tools.

Local Stationers

If you prefer a more hands-on approach or desire a truly bespoke design, working with a local stationer or store is a great option. They can guide you through the entire process, from selecting the perfect paper to creating a one-of-a-kind design that reflects your unique style. Here are some benefits of choosing a local stationer:

• Bespoke Designs: Local stationers can help you create truly bespoke invitations, especially if you're not confident in your design skills or don't have the time to design them yourself.
• Personalised Service: You'll receive dedicated assistance and support throughout the entire process, ensuring that your invitations are exactly as you envisioned.
• Quality Assurance: Local stationers often provide proofing services, allowing you to review and approve the design before printing, ensuring that you're happy with the final product.
• Custom Paper Options: They can help you select the perfect paper for your invitations, offering a range of textures, weights, and finishes to create a luxurious and memorable invitation suite.

Production and Shipping Times

The production and shipping times of your wedding invitations will depend on the vendor you choose, the complexity of your design, and the number of revisions and customisations you request. Here is a general overview of what to expect:

Design Time

Designing your wedding invitations can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more. To expedite the process, be as specific as possible in your design instructions, and provide your engagement pictures upfront if possible. The more back-and-forth there is between you and the designer, the longer the design process will take.

Printing Time

Printing turnaround times vary depending on the printing method, the number of invitations, and the complexity of the design. Basic digital printing can be done within a few days, while more specialised printing methods like foil printing or letterpress may take a week or more. Rush printing options are often available for an additional fee if you need your invitations in a hurry.

Shipping Time

Shipping times depend on the shipping method chosen and your location. Standard ground shipping within the same country can take up to six days, while international shipping can take significantly longer (up to a month or more). Expedited shipping options are usually available for an additional fee if you need your invitations sooner.

Overall Timeline

From the initial design process to printing and shipping, the entire process of creating and receiving your wedding invitations can take as little as two weeks for simple designs and faster shipping methods. However, for more complex designs and standard shipping, you should expect the process to take several weeks to a month or more.

It is recommended to start the wedding invitation process about eight months before your wedding to ensure you have plenty of time to explore design options, choose a vendor, and finalise the details without feeling rushed.

Frequently asked questions