How to Save Big on Wedding Invitations and Stationery Without Compromising Style

Weddings are a special occasion, and every detail counts, including the wedding invitations and stationery. While they may seem like a small part of the big day, they set the tone for your entire wedding and create lasting memories for your guests. However, wedding invitations and stationery can be costly, and with many other wedding expenses to consider, it's easy to see how quickly costs can spiral out of control.

The good news is that you don't have to sacrifice style for savings. With some creativity and a strategic approach, it's possible to have beautiful wedding stationery without breaking the bank. In this actionable guide, we'll explore how to save on wedding invitations and stationery while still ensuring they reflect your personal style and leave a lasting impression.

Choose Digital Invitations

One of the most effective ways to cut costs is to opt for digital wedding invitations. These days, digital invitations are just as elegant and customizable as traditional paper ones, and they can be sent via email or even through social media platforms. Here's why you might consider digital invites:

Benefits of Digital Invitations:

• No Printing Costs: Digital invitations eliminate the need for printing and postage, which can account for a significant portion of your stationery budget.
• Instant Delivery: You can send them to your guest list instantly, eliminating postal delays or lost invitations.
• Eco-friendly: By going paperless, you contribute to sustainability and reduce waste.
• Customizable Designs: Many online platforms offer beautiful templates that you can customize to your liking, ensuring that your invitations still feel personal and special.
• RSVP Tracking: Digital invites often come with built-in RSVP tracking, which simplifies the process of keeping track of your guest list.

Platforms to Consider:

• Paperless Post: Offers elegant designs with customizable features and the option to send digital invitations.
• Greenvelope: Known for its eco-friendly approach, it provides stunning digital invitations with RSVP tracking.
• Evite: While often used for casual events, it also offers formal wedding invitations that can be customized.

If your heart is set on a physical invite, consider printing only a small number of paper invitations for close family and friends while sending digital versions to the rest of your guest list.

Simplify Your Design

The design of your invitations plays a significant role in the overall cost. Complex designs, special printing techniques, and premium paper can quickly drive up the price. Instead, opt for a simpler design that still looks sophisticated and beautiful. Here are some ways to keep the design elegant but affordable:

Stick to One or Two Colors

Choosing a limited color palette can save you money, especially when it comes to custom printing. Instead of selecting multiple colors, opt for a minimalist design with one or two complementary shades that fit your wedding theme. Classic color combinations like white and gold, navy and blush, or black and ivory are timeless and sophisticated.

Consider Simple Printing Techniques

Instead of expensive custom printing methods like letterpress or foil stamping, choose simpler printing options like flat or digital printing. These are still professional and stylish, but far less costly than more elaborate methods.

Minimalist Designs

Minimalism is not only a modern design trend, but it's also an affordable one. Simple geometric patterns, clean typography, or delicate illustrations can create an elegant look without increasing your budget. Often, the less intricate the design, the more chic and high-end it can appear.

Opt for DIY Designs

If you have design skills or know someone who does, consider designing your own wedding invitations. Using design tools like Canva, Adobe Spark, or even free templates from wedding websites, you can create a unique and personalized design at little to no cost. Printing the invitations yourself or through a local print shop will also save money compared to professional design studios.

Print Invitations at Home or Use Local Print Shops

Printing invitations in bulk through a professional printer can be pricey, but there are alternative options that can help you save without sacrificing quality.

Print at Home

If you have a decent printer, printing your wedding invitations at home could be a cost-effective solution. Modern home printers can produce high-quality invitations, especially if you opt for heavier card stock. Many wedding invitation templates are available online, so you can simply download and print them yourself. Here's how to do it:

• Invest in Quality Paper: Purchase high-quality card stock from office supply stores or online. Opt for textured or linen paper for a sophisticated finish.
• Use Online Templates: Websites like Canva, Etsy, or even Microsoft Word offer free templates that you can customize.
• Print in Batches: To avoid overwhelming your printer, print invitations in small batches to ensure quality and avoid any mistakes.

Utilize Local Print Shops

If printing at home isn't an option, consider using a local print shop. Local printers often provide competitive prices, and you may be able to negotiate discounts for bulk orders. Plus, by choosing a local shop, you can work directly with the printer to ensure the quality of your invitations without the cost of shipping from online vendors.

Consider Hybrid Solutions

If you still want to keep some traditional elements, hybrid invitations can be a great compromise. Hybrid solutions mix digital and paper elements to save money while retaining the charm of physical invitations.

Digital Save-the-Dates with Paper Invitations

You can save money by sending digital save-the-dates and reserving paper invitations for the final invitation. This way, you can spend more on the design and quality of your main wedding invite while keeping the save-the-dates cost-effective.

Mix Traditional with Modern

Send out printed invitations, but skip the extra add-ons like response cards or information inserts. Instead, direct guests to a wedding website where they can RSVP, view additional details, and find accommodations information. This allows you to reduce the number of paper items while still giving guests a well-rounded experience.

Reconsider Fancy Envelopes and Extras

When it comes to wedding invitations, it's easy to get caught up in the details like fancy envelopes, belly bands, wax seals, or custom liners. While these can add a luxurious touch, they often add unnecessary costs.

Use Standard Envelopes

Instead of opting for custom or decorated envelopes, stick to standard envelopes. You can still add a personal touch by printing your guests' addresses using a calligraphy-style font, or by using a beautiful wax seal or simple sticker to close the envelope.

Skip Fancy Add-Ons

While custom liners, ribbons, and belly bands look beautiful, they can significantly increase the cost of your invitations. Consider eliminating these extras and focusing on a strong design for the invitation itself. If you're set on adding a special touch, a simple, elegant stamp or hand-addressed envelopes will still create a polished look.

Consider Wedding Invitation Kits

Wedding invitation kits are pre-packaged sets that include everything you need to create your own wedding invitations, including card stock, envelopes, and sometimes even embellishments like ribbons or stickers. These kits are available at office supply stores and craft stores, and they offer a more affordable way to design and print wedding invitations. Since they come with pre-cut card stock and matching envelopes, you don't have to worry about cutting and sizing the materials yourself.

Buy in Bulk or Shop for Discounts

If you're opting for professionally printed invitations, buying in bulk can save you money. Most printing companies offer discounts on larger orders, so if your guest list is substantial, ordering a higher quantity can significantly reduce the cost per invitation.

Take Advantage of Sales and Coupons

Keep an eye out for sales and discounts from popular wedding stationery vendors like Vistaprint, Minted, or Zazzle. Signing up for their newsletters may also grant you access to exclusive deals or promo codes. If you're planning far in advance, many vendors have seasonal sales, such as discounts during the off-peak wedding season.

Conclusion

Wedding invitations and stationery are a key part of your wedding experience, but they don't have to come with a hefty price tag. By embracing digital solutions, simplifying designs, printing at home or through local shops, and being mindful of additional costs like fancy envelopes and extra embellishments, you can save big while still keeping your invitations stylish and elegant. With a little creativity and thoughtful planning, you can create invitations that perfectly match your vision, all while staying within budget.

View Product