Wedding Invitation Suite Costs - Sticker Shock!

Planning a wedding sounds so romantic...but for some, it quickly becomes like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle - exciting, a bit nerve-wracking, and full of surprises. One of those surprises? The cost of wedding invitation suites.

Yep, those beautiful little bundles of joy that set the tone for your big day can sometimes come with a price tag that makes you do a double take. Don’t worry, I’m here to break it all down for you in a way that’s as fun as it is informative. And I may share some tips on how you can save some money in this area!

So, what exactly is a wedding invitation suite? It’s not just the invitation itself (though that is the star of the show). A suite usually includes the main invite, RSVP card, details (enclosure) card, and sometimes extras like maps or accommodation info. Think of it as the VIP package for your guests - all the info they need, wrapped up in a pretty little package.

Now, why do these suites cost what they do? Several factors play into the price:

• Paper quality: Thick, textured, or specialty papers all come with upgraded price tags. And then there's the acrylic option too. I even met a bride who had her invitations burned into leather!

• Printing method: Digital printing is budget-friendly, but letterpress, embossed or foil stamping? That can have an effect on your bank account.

• Extras: Envelopes, liners, wax seals, ribbons, pocket folders - all add flair and cost.

  
  

What Influences Wedding Invitation Suite Costs?

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here’s a quick rundown of what can make your invitation suite cost more or less:

1. Custom Design vs. Pre-Made Templates

I need to tread lightly on this one because custom design is what I do! But custom stationery doesn't have to break the bank. Online templates may seem cheaper but:

a. Does the online company you're ordering from provide free samples? I happily pass on to my clients the discounts I've earned from my preferred printers.

b. Do you have a professional to proofread every detail for accuracy so that re-prints aren't necessary?

c. How much is your time worth? What else could you be doing with the hours you'll spend fussing and frustrated with online templates?

2. Printing Techniques

• Digital printing: Affordable and fast, great for all designs.

• Letterpress: Presses the design into the paper for a tactile feel. Fancy and costs more.

• Foil stamping: Adds shiny metallic details. Glamorous but adds to the bill.

• Thermography: Raised ink effect, less expensive than letterpress but still elegant.

  
  

3. Paper Choices

From recycled card stock to handmade cotton paper or even acrylic, the options are endless. Thicker, textured, or specialty papers cost more but feel luxurious ... and again, my printer discounts will beat most of the prices you find online.

You don't have to break the bank for beautiful custom stationery.

**Special note: I have ordered sample invitations from many different print companies and there are some I would NOT recommend. If the price offered on that website seems too good to be true, email me (Belinda@TheBridesSecretary.com) with your concern and I'll gladly let you know if it's a company I would stay away from.

4. Quantity and Guest List Size

A little tricky here. Ordering 80 invites vs. 125 invites can change your per-piece cost in a good way. But, common mistake - you don't need an invite for every guest. You might bump up your quantity by ordering extras for keepsakes or last-minute guests but -- excuse the eye roll for this "duh!" moment -- ordering ONLY what you need is the best way to save money. I can help you budget for that.

5. Additional Elements

Envelope liners, custom stamps, wax seals, ribbons, pocket folders and belly bands all add personality - and price. But I keep a stock of some of these items on hand; I pay the bulk price and you save!

How much should you budget for wedding invitations?

Alright, let’s talk numbers. I know, the part everyone’s curious about but also a little scared of. The truth? Wedding invitation suite costs vary widely depending on your choices. But here’s a ballpark to help you plan:

• Budget-friendly: $2.50 - $4 per suite (think digital printing, basic quality paper)

• Mid-range: $5 - $10 per suite (custom design, better paper, some special printing, like foil)

• Luxury: $10 - $20+ per suite (letterpress, handmade paper, fancy extras, acrylic)

  
  

Not only did I create the design, I also wrapped and sealed each one, stuffed, addressed and stamped each envelope and took them to the post office! I am her Secretary after all.

Keep in mind, these prices usually include the invitation, RSVP card, and details card. You still need envelopes and postage. But I can offer discounts on those too!

Case in point - the bride's stationery you see pictured here included gold foil, vellum wraps, wax seal stickers, quality envelopes, address printing and double-postage (because of the wax seal)...and she paid $3.50 each. Compare that to the prices listed above. She even got to hold samples in her hand before we went to print.

Speaking of which, did you know I also handle addressing, mailing, RSVP tracking, and even calling guests who forget to RSVP? It’s like having a personal Bride's Secretary for your stationery - stress-free and oh-so-satisfying. If you want to get a clearer picture, check out my services here.

Remember, your invitations are the first glimpse your guests get of your wedding vibe. Avoid the temptation to go strictly digital - were ALL of your guests born after 1998? You can't attach a digital invitation to your refrigerator. There are other ways to keep your costs manageable; let's talk!

Don't settle for someone else's pre-designed template

So Why Choose The Bride's Secretary?

I get it - wedding planning is overwhelming. Between choosing flowers, tasting cake, and figuring out seating charts, who has time to stress over invitations? That’s where I come in. Designing fully custom stationery is just where it starts. I also take care of the nitty-gritty:

• Addressing envelopes with care and precision

• Organizing your stationery calendar so that everything is printed and mailed on time

• Tracking RSVPs so you don’t have to

• Calling guests who forget to respond (yes, I really do!)

  
  

This means you get to enjoy your engagement without the stationery headaches. Plus, professional handling often saves money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes or delays.

Final Thoughts on Wedding Stationery Costs

So, there you have it - a friendly guide to understanding wedding stationery costs without the confusion or sticker shock. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxe letterpress suite or a simple, sweet and beautiful invite, knowing what influences the price helps you make choices that fit your style and budget.

Remember, your invitations are more than just paper - they’re the first hello to your wedding story. Make them count, but don’t let them break the bank. And if you want a partner to handle the whole process from design to RSVP follow-up, you know where to find me!

Happy planning, and may your invites be as fabulous as your love story!