How much will invitations cost? This is always the first question I get asked before even beginning to discuss design. And why not? Your wedding is not only one of the most important days of your life but also expensive and you probably have some form of a budget in place. A number of factors go into pricing out invitations - for the design as well as the printing and packaging of all of the pieces.
Number of pieces
Size of each piece
Printing technique and embellishments (foils, embellishments, wax seal, belly bands)
Type of paper and envelopes
Extras (program, table numbers, place cards, thank you, etc.)
NUMBER OF PIECES
What is all needed for your invitation package? Of course you’ll need the actual invitation but what else. I always recommend an RSVP card to be included for your guests. While websites do exist now that allow guests to RSVP and collects the information for you, I think sending and receiving an RSVP is more personal. For my own wedding six years ago (SIX already!!??) a lot of our friends and family wrote special or funny notes on theirs and I loved it! You can also consider including a reception/accommodations card. This card includes information like cocktail hour, dinner time, special “send-off” time for the couple or hotel accommodations. Deciding the number of pieces you want in the package is a first step and will help you make further decisions on paper and envelopes.
SIZE OF EACH PIECE AND QUANTITY
Designers can guide you in the design of each piece of your invitation package, you may have a look in mind when you begin this process. I’m sure you are even overwhelmed with all of the different options and information you find on Pinterest, wedding magazines or social media sites! As you browse designs, keep in mind the different sizes of the layouts you see. While that watercolor floral design is beautiful, it might be more budget-friendly to adjust your idea to a portrait layout instead of the square design you found. A square invitation means a square envelope and a square envelope can mean a change in your postage cost when mailing the invitations.
How many invitations should you print? The majority of your quantity is based on your guest list but it’s important to have a small amount of surplus. Turns out, your mom’s best friend from college will be in town for the wedding. Your soon to be father in law wants to invite a handful of coworkers last minute? It’s always better to be prepared from the beginning than have to reprint a small amount because prices can go up. It’s also nice to have a few extra for your memories or to photograph for your album.
PRINTING TECHNIQUE AND EMBELLISHMENTS
There are so many different printing techniques and gorgeous embellishments that can be added to your invitation package that can make them very unique and lovely. Whether it’s letterpress (always stunning), foil stamping or a wax seal (so elegant), it’s important for you to know and keep in mind that these do increase the cost of your invitations. As the designer, I can’t help but think that these items are so worth it and just add that extra touch :) but as the one planning the wedding you are most likely working under a budget and will need to consider that as you look at these extra design additions.
TYPE OF PAPER AND ENVELOPES
Paper and envelopes! While they may seem boring and not a major factor to consider when planning your invitation designs, there are so many options and possibilities. There are lots of places to search and order from but I always love either Envelopes.com or CardsandPockets.com. They have so many different types of paper stock, envelope sizes, pocket envelopes, you name it. Plus the prices are always reasonable, the shipments are fast and the products are great, I’m always happy and so are the brides! And that’s what really counts right? :) Whatever paper stock you choose, make sure you get at least a 100# or 80# cover - there’s nothing more upsetting than having a finished design, printed and trimmed and then seeing ink bleed through on the backside. Plus, having a nice heavier piece of paper sets a tone for the importance of the invitation and the wedding day!
EXTRAS
I don’t like calling these items “extra” but they are the pieces that you can consider ordering that go beyond just the invitations. This includes, but is by no means limited to, programs, place cards, table numbers, thank you cards, menus, bar signs, in memorium signs and anything else you want included for your special day. As the designer, I like to discuss the whole package right away so we can plan accordingly. This helps not just with budgeting and printing but also designing pieces that are follow the same look and feel.
OK, now don’t panic! I know this is a lot of information thrown at you at once and you’re probably a little overwhelmed but just breathe. Start by looking through your bridal magazines, follow those same magazines on social media, browse Pinterest and start a Wedding Board!
Planning a wedding is...a lot of work but it also should be fun :) And if you’re ready for help or want to cross invitations off your list? I’m here to talk!
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