The first question I usually get from brides is often about cost. Invitation pricing can vary widely, depending on a number of different factors. So, when you’re getting started with wedding planning, how do you budget for your wedding stationery needs?
Generally speaking, it’s smart to set aside 4%-6% of your wedding budget for wedding stationery. That includes Save the Dates, the Invitation suite, and Postage. Factor in another 1-3% for Day-of Pieces that could include programs, signage, menus, escort cards, favor tags and similar items.
Below are my six top tips for budgeting for wedding invitations and stationery:
1. Look at the Big Picture
In order to get an accurate idea of pricing, you’ll want to take into account all the items you will need, from start to finish. This includes save the dates, the invitations themselves, along with any day of pieces like menus, programs, or escort cards. Your stationer can also create matching items such as favor tags, coasters and napkins for your big day. Think about the events surrounding your wedding weekend as well, such as rehearsal dinner (which may require separate invitations) or a day-after brunch (which may be included in the invitation suite). If you’re working with a wedding planner, she can help you come up with a list of what you’ll need.
2. Consider your Quantity
It sounds obvious, but to put it plainly, the more invitations you’ll need, the higher your costs will be. Planning a small affair for 80 guests will cost a lot less than an event for 400 or more. However, you will usually get a price break on production at higher quantities, for example, 50 invitations may cost $5 a set, versus $3 a set when you’re printing 300. You’ll also want to factor in a few extras – I always recommend ordering about 10 more invitations than you’ll need, in case of last-minute guest list additions and so you’ll have a few keepsakes.
3. Consider your Wedding Style
A formal, black tie event may require something extra special, like gold foil or letterpress printing, or double-thick stock to convey the tone for your guests when it arrives in the mail. An envelope liner can also add an upscale feel. A more casual event may require less formal paper accessories, and therefore less cost, than a black tie affair.
Above: Standard printing (left) is more affordable than our foil stamped options (right).
4. Spend on What’s Important to You
Dying for those beautiful patterned liners, gold foil, or a specialty-color envelope with white ink printing? Those extra costs can add up, but if you’re willing to spend a bit more, it will be worth it to create a beautiful, memorable invitation suite that you and your guests will treasure.
On the other hand, you can keep it simple with a basic invitation and envelope suite to keep the costs streamlined. With our invitation collection, you can rest assured that our standard suites are gorgeous and ready to impress your guests, at a wallet-friendly price.
5. Look for Places to Save
If your budget is feeling a little tight, consider sending an rsvp postcard instead of an reply card with envelope, and you’ll save on both printing costs and postage – it’s a win-win! Opt to print your details card double-sided instead of printing an additional accommodations card. Depending on your needs, there may be some creative ways to trim costs. Which brings me to my last piece of advice….
6. When in Doubt, Ask your Stationer
Your stationer can provide you with detailed estimates for all kinds of variables, so you can be prepared up-front for costs. Just ask! She also might have helpful, creative suggestions for ways to save, like using a return address stamp instead of printing the return address on your envelopes and reply envelopes.
A Basic Cost Comparison
So what does all this mean in real numbers?
While costs can vary wildly among different invitation makers, a 100-piece suite from our Invitation collection printed on luxe cotton stock, including invitation, reply card, and fully printed, guest-addressed envelopes and reply envelopes, costs $595.00.
The same invitation suite upgraded with foil stamping, envelope liners, and a details card would cost about $1,200.00. You can see more invitation budget details on our Pricing page, or fill out our Estimate Request Form to create your personalized estimate.
Want more wedding planning tips and inspiration? Visit our Pinterest profile.
So now that you know what to expect, budget-wise, you’re ready for the fun part – shop our invitation collection!
