Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations can get really expensive very quickly, especially if you have a large guest list. There are many online printing companies which may offer prices lower than your local printing companies. Make sure that whichever printer you choose will make you a proof before printing your order. If they won't make you a proof choose a different company. Be sure to take your proof to the post office to make sure it doesn't require extra postage. There are several factors besides weight (shape, rigidity, decorations, etc,) that may cause your invitation to require more postage. Some of the intricate embellishments can really add to the price of your invitations. To save money, consider choosing a plainer invitation and adding your own customization using stamps, embossing, and other decorations.

There are also do it yourself kits that are available online and at stores like Walmart and craft stores. They include the envelopes, various cards and decorations, and online software for designing your invitation. You then run the cards directly through your computer printer. We chose this option because it allowed us to create our cards and have them all mailed out within two days. We used the kit and then customized them ourselves with velum paper, stamps, and stickers. Including postage they were under $2.50 each. This option may not be for everyone, but if you enjoy craft projects or want one of a kind invitations it may be right for you.

A great alternative is using a 7.5"x6" photo greeting card as your invitation. These can be printed at any photo center in 1 hour for around $.15 each. Include on it all your relevant event info (date, time, location, etc.). Including a picture of yourselves will insure that people hang it up as a reminder. We used this method to do our thank you cards. We had 200 of them printed at Costco, including envelopes, for $45 and got tons of compliments on them.

Invitations traditionally include an RSVP card and envelope with postage. To save on return postage, you can let people RSVP by phone, email, or online services.

Whichever method you choose, make sure to order extras. You will certainly remember people who you will need to invite at the last minute and you will also make mistakes when addressing them. Having extras on hand will save you time and rush fees later.