Print Your Wedding Save-The-Dates Here

Save the dates are a great way to share your wedding plans with friends and family and ensure they can make it to your big day. They are usually sent out 6 to 8 months in advance, or a year if you're planning a destination wedding. You can print your own save the dates at home or use an online printing service. Online printing services often offer customizable templates, different paper stocks, and various shapes and sizes.

Online vs. physical printing

When it comes to printing wedding 'save the dates', there are two main options: online or physical printing. Both have their advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and desired level of customization.

Online printing services, such as VistaPrint, Moo, and Zazzle, offer convenience and affordability. They often provide a wide range of customizable templates, allowing you to design your 'save the date' cards with ease. These services can also handle printing and delivery, saving you time and effort. Additionally, online printing eliminates the risk of cards getting lost in the mail. However, one drawback is the need for email addresses for all recipients, which may be challenging to obtain.

On the other hand, physical printing offers a more tangible and textural experience. Letterpress and gold foil options add elegance and a unique touch to your 'save the dates'. These cards can be displayed on refrigerators or bulletin boards, serving as a constant reminder for your guests. Physical printing also eliminates the risk of digital invitations ending up in spam filters or being accidentally deleted. However, it can be more expensive due to printing and postage costs.

Both options have their merits, and it is essential to consider your priorities when making a decision. Online printing provides convenience, affordability, and ease of customization, while physical printing offers a tactile experience and ensures your invitations stand out. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and services like Bliss & Bone offer tools to create beautiful 'save the dates' regardless of your preferred method.

DIY vs. professional printing

When it comes to wedding save-the-dates, you can either go down the DIY route or opt for professional printing services. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide which option is best for you:

DIY Printing

If you choose to print your save-the-dates at home, you'll have the flexibility to design them exactly as you envision. You can purchase templates online from sites like Etsy, or create your own from scratch using software like Photoshop. This option allows you to customize every aspect, from the paper stock to any special finishes you may desire.

However, DIY printing can be time-consuming and costly, especially if you don't already have the necessary equipment and supplies. You'll need to invest in high-quality paper, envelopes, and printer ink, and be prepared to spend time assembling each save-the-date. Additionally, if you're not satisfied with the final product, you'll have to start over, potentially incurring additional expenses.

Professional Printing

On the other hand, professional printing services offer convenience and expertise. They can produce high-quality save-the-dates, often with a faster turnaround time. Many companies provide customizable templates, or you can upload your own design. This option is ideal if you want to ensure a professional finish and save time.

Some popular online printing services include Vistaprint, Prints of Love, Zazzle, and Overnight Prints. These services offer various paper types, finishes, and add-ons like rounded edges or envelope liners. They often have deals and discounts available, making them a budget-friendly choice. Additionally, you can usually order samples before committing to a large order, ensuring you're happy with the final product.

Both DIY and professional printing have their advantages and disadvantages. DIY printing gives you complete creative control but requires more time and effort. Professional printing offers convenience, expertise, and time savings, but may be more expensive depending on your specific needs and the quantity required. Ultimately, the decision depends on your budget, time constraints, and the level of customization you desire.

Paper weight and finish

When it comes to printing your wedding save-the-dates, the paper weight and finish are important factors to consider. These elements will impact the look and feel of your cards, and can help you achieve the desired effect.

Paper Weight

The weight of the paper will determine how sturdy and thick your save-the-date cards are. Lighter weights, such as 110 lb. or 130 lb., will give a more delicate and refined feel, while heavier weights, like 160 lb. or 240 lb., will result in a more substantial and luxurious card.

Paper Finish

The finish of the paper refers to its surface texture and can add a subtle touch of elegance or a bold statement to your design. Here are some popular paper finishes to consider:

• Smooth Finish: A polished and sleek option that will make your photographs shine. This finish provides a very refined and modern look.
• Linen Finish: This finish gives a subtle, elegant texture to the paper, resembling woven linen fabric. It adds a touch of sophistication and is perfect for a classic or rustic wedding theme.
• Pearlescent Finish: A pearlescent finish adds a subtle shimmer and glow to your cards, creating an elegant and sophisticated effect. This finish is an excellent choice for a glamorous or evening wedding.
• Recycled Finish: If sustainability is important to you, opt for a 100% recycled paper stock with a smooth and matte finish. This finish will give your save-the-dates a natural and earthy feel.
• Embossed Finish: Embossing adds a three-dimensional design to your paper, creating a luxurious and opulent look. This finish is perfect for adding a sophisticated touch to your wedding stationery.
• Foil Finish: A foil finish adds a metallic shine to your save-the-dates, available in various colours like gold, silver, rose gold, and glittery options. This finish is an excellent way to make a bold statement and perfect for a glamorous wedding theme.
• Gloss Finish: A gloss finish adds a subtle shine to your cards, enhancing the colours and making your design pop. It is a versatile finish that can be used for any wedding theme.

When choosing the paper weight and finish for your wedding save-the-dates, consider the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve, and don't be afraid to mix and match to create a unique and personalised effect.

Cost comparison

The cost of printing wedding 'save the dates' varies depending on the quantity, quality, and add-ons. Here is a cost comparison between different providers:

Staples

Staples offers custom "Save the Date" invitations with various features such as photo and illustration-based card designs, gloss finish, backside printing, and rounded corners. While the website does not provide pricing information, it mentions that the cards are sold in packs of 25 with same-day printing available if ordered before 12 pm.

Smartpress

Smartpress offers customizable "Save the Date" cards with options for size, stock, weight, ink, and finish. They also provide digital laser cutting and drill holes for ribbons. The unit price starts at $0.87 for 50 cards, with the total cost for 50 cards being $43.42.

VistaPrint

VistaPrint offers a wide range of "Save the Date" card designs, including rustic, destination, and modern themes. They also provide add-ons such as silver embossing and envelopes. While the exact pricing depends on the chosen design and quantity, they currently have an offer for 50 cards for under $50 with 50% off all quantities, sizes, and paper stocks.

MOO

MOO provides fully customizable "Save the Date" postcards with double-sided printing and high-quality paper stock. Their prices start at $21.00 for 50 cards and vary based on size, with small, standard, square, rack, medium, half-page, and large options available.

Bliss & Bone

Bliss & Bone offers elegant and customizable "Save the Date" cards with features such as graphics, images, color options, fonts, and printing options like letterpress and gold foil. Their prices start at $235.00 for 25 flat print, unlimited color cards, with higher prices for letterpress ($445.00) and metallic foil ($572.50).

Other Options

Some individuals choose to print their "Save the Date" cards at home or use online services like Etsy, Walgreens, or Zazzle. These options can be more affordable, especially with coupons or discounts, but may require more effort and time.

Design and customisation

When it comes to designing and customising your wedding save-the-dates, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, you'll want to choose a design that reflects your wedding theme or style. Whether you're having a rustic wedding, a destination wedding, or a more classic affair, there are templates available to suit every taste. You can also create a completely bespoke design if you have something specific in mind.

You can also customise the size, shape, and format of your save-the-dates. Common sizes include small (4.1" x 5.8"), medium (5" x 7"), and large (5" x 7.75"), and they can be flat or folded. You can also choose from a variety of paper stocks, such as elegant linen, shimmery metallic, or luxurious papers with special finishes like gold or silver foil.

In terms of customisation, you can include personal touches such as photos of yourselves or your venue, or even add a QR code. You can also customise the envelopes, with options for size, stock, address placement, and font.

When designing your save-the-dates, it's important to keep the information simple and clear. Include your names, the wedding date, and the location, and optionally, the wedding website URL. You may also want to include a request for email addresses if you plan to send digital invitations. Use a font that is easy to read and consider adding a touch of personalisation, such as including a nickname.

Overall, there are endless possibilities for designing and customising your wedding save-the-dates. Whether you choose to upload your own complete design or customise a template, you can create save-the-dates that perfectly reflect your style and set the tone for your special day.

Frequently asked questions