How Much Do Custom Wedding Invitations Cost?

Custom Wedding Stationery Pricing

One of the questions couples ask when planning their dream wedding is, “How much do custom wedding invitations cost?” And it’s a completely fair question! Unlike ordering off a pre-set template, custom stationery is a bespoke experience, which in turn means the price varies widely based on your unique vision.

At Copper Cactus Design, we believe in transparency. Let’s break down the key factors that influence the investment in your custom wedding invitation suite so you can budget with confidence.

The Core Drivers of Cost for Custom Invitation Pricing

Think of your wedding invitations as a personalized work of art. Just like a custom painting, the cost depends on the complexity, materials, and techniques involved.

1. Printing Method: The Art of Impression The way your design is brought to life on paper is perhaps the biggest factor in cost, aside from your quantity. Each method offers a distinct aesthetic and price point:
   • Digital Printing: Often the most budget-friendly option, digital printing offers endless color possibilities and sharp details. It’s perfect for intricate graphics and vibrant hues.
   • Letterpress: A beloved classic, letterpress creates a beautiful, tactile impression where the design is pressed into the paper. It’s a luxurious, elegant choice that costs more than digital due to the specialized plates and manual process.
   • Foil Stamping: For that undeniable sparkle and glamour, foil stamping applies metallic or pigmented foil to the paper using heat and pressure. It’s a premium option that adds a touch of opulence.
   • Embossing/Debossing: These techniques create raised (embossing) or recessed (debossing) areas on the paper without ink, adding a sophisticated textural element.
   • Combinations: Many couples choose to combine methods, perhaps digital printing for information cards and letterpress or foil for the main invitation, balancing budget and luxury.

Materials and Why They Affect Cost

The paper and embellishments you choose significantly impact the final price and feel.

• Paper Type & Thickness: Standard cardstock is economical, but upgrading to luxurious cotton paper, handmade paper, or double-thick cardstock instantly elevates the suite. Specialty papers like vellum or acrylic also come with a higher price point.

• Envelopes: Basic envelopes are usually included, but colored envelopes, textured envelopes, or those with custom liners add to the cost. Envelope liners + inner envelopes are $7 with us.

• Embellishments: This is where you can truly personalize! Think about:
  • Wax Seals: Custom designs and colors add a touch of old-world charm.
  • Ribbon, Twine, or Belly Bands: These can hold your suite together beautifully.
  • Pocketfolds & Gatefolds: These intricate enclosures organize your cards and add a layer of elegance.
  • Custom Illustrations: Hand-drawn venue illustrations, maps, or monograms are unique and require dedicated design time.

Wedding Invitation Suite Cost

The Number of Pieces in Your Suite: A “suite” can range from a simple invitation and RSVP card to a robust collection. Each additional card adds to the design, printing, and paper costs. Common pieces include:

• Main Invitation
• RSVP Card (with or without envelope)
• Details Card (accommodations, travel, website, dress code)
• Reception Card
• Weekend Events Card

How Much To Budget For Wedding Invitations

Budget Allocation: Average cost of wedding invitations

A common question is what percentage of your overall wedding budget should be allocated to stationery. While there’s no hard rule, most couples allocate 2-5% of their total wedding budget to invitations and day-of stationery. This can fluctuate based on how high a priority stationery is for you and the level of customization you desire. Most couples spend between $35-$65 per household for custom invitations.

Decoding “Hidden” Costs (and why they’re not really hidden with us!)

When budgeting, it’s crucial to consider these often-overlooked elements:

• Postage: Don’t forget stamps! The weight and dimensions of your finished invitation suite (especially with multiple inserts or embellishments) will determine the postage cost. Most of our clients spend around $2 per invitation to be mailed when using forever stamps. Vintage stamps tend to cost around 5x and up per their face value.
• Assembly: Will you be assembling your invitations yourself, or would you prefer a professional touch? Assembly services can save you valuable time and ensure a pristine presentation. Assembly with us is $350 for 100 invitations.
• Addressing: Hand calligraphy or digital guest addressing can add a polished, cohesive look to your envelopes, saving you from hand-cramps! Digital guest addressing is always included with our invitations! Hand calligraphy can range from $3-$7 per envelope. Digital addressing in around $2 per envelope.
• Day-Of Stationery: Remember that your stationery journey doesn’t end with the invitations. Items like menus, place cards, programs, signage, and thank you cards should also be factored into your overall stationery budget to maintain a cohesive look.

Custom Wedding Stationery Pricing

Price List

Check out our price list here for a breakdown of what we charge. Each couple receives a custom proposal during their consultation with us but this price guide will help you understand what all goes into it.

Ready to Chat About Your Dream Invitations?

We understand that custom wedding invitations are an investment in creating an unforgettable first impression. Our goal at Copper Cactus Design is to provide clear, upfront pricing and guide you through every decision, ensuring your stationery not only fits your budget but also perfectly reflects your unique love story.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Let’s connect and discuss your vision!

Photos by: Alyssa Ryan Photography