Your wedding stationery is your first opportunity to wow your guests and give them a prelude for fabulous things to come. Contrary to popular belief, "wowing" your guests does not have to cost a fortune. I have been working with brides for close to five years and love seeing their face when the finished product comes to life… especially under budget! When setting your wedding stationery budget, it is suggested to dedicate 6-8% of your total budget aside for your wedding stationery. Your wedding stationery includes Save The Dates, Wedding Invitations & Enclosures, Programs, Place Cards, Menu Cards, etc.
It's important to be honest with your designer regarding your budget. I never want my brides to feel pressured to purchase the most expensive stationery and I will work to design the perfect invitation in the price range set by the bride. These tips will help you make an impressive impact without breaking the bank.
5 Wedding Stationery Budget Tips to Help You Save…
Educate Yourself On Printing Methods
When selecting an invitation design keep in mind that the printing method you choose impacts the price. It's a good idea to educate yourself on the common printing methods and their costs. Engraving, Letterpress and Thermography are formal and elegant printing techniques which are more expensive options compared to digital printing. Adding a second ink color also adds to the price so try to stick to one color, and select a classic design that is clean and elegant.
Layers & Size
A stationery rule of thumb: the more layers you add to wedding invitation, the more it costs. Not only are thicker papers and pockets more expensive, but heavier invitations cost more at the postage meter. Also keep in mind that square or oddly shaped envelopes, such as French flap envelopes addressed vertically, also incur extra charges at the Post Office.
Eliminate the Extras
While it can be fun to go extravagant with your wedding invitations, extras come with a cost. Silk Boxes, crystal buckles and bows are all beautiful but are expensive. Choose only those stationery items that apply to your event. Save-the-date cards are fun but not a necessity. Consider skipping save-the-dates if most of your guests are in town and your wedding date doesn’t fall during a peak season or holiday. If your reception and ceremony will take place at the same location, you can eliminate the separate reception card from your wedding invitation.
Channel Your Inner DIY Bride
If you’ve got the creative knack, Invite me offers DIY brides the option to purchase pockets, cut cardstock and/or your printed pieces ready to be assembled. I also offer cut and scored cardstock for place cards, programs, menu cards, etc.
Always Remember To Invite Me ;)
You may be surprised to find the very same wedding invitations, custom papers or other stationery items offered for a number of different prices. That’s right; Invite Me carries the same invitations and cardstocks for custom designs for 20% less than retail prices.
