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Lets take a quick look at the basics of wedding invites, just to make sure that you haven't forgotten to do anything. Or, you can use this just to get a quick glimpse of what needs to be done in order to ensure that your invites go out smoothly.
What it may cost
Prices depend on the kind of invitations you choose, where you order them, the ink, the typeface, the printing process and obviously how many you will need. You'll spend anywhere from 50 cents to $10+ each. Remember to add in extra if you are going to hire a calligrapher.
Ways to save on Wedding Invites
The best way to save money on invitations is to keep it simple.
Top-of-the-line papers, colored ink and custom designing will only push up the price.
If you're concerned about postage, stay away from oversize or bulky styles. Paper boutiques have beautiful wares, but working with a mainstream house or mail-order outlet will save you cash.
When should you order?
Aim to order your invitations when your guest list is final (about five months before the wedding). How do you reach that point? Follow this game plan: Dream up your design concept about seven or eight months before, start to scout out stationers at the seven-month mark and nail down specifics during months six and five.
Overcompensate
Don't order the exact number of invites you'll need order 15-20 extra. It's always better to have extra than to have to reorder more later, which will more than likely be more expensive. Also order extra envelopes to leave room for addressing errors.
Essential Ingredients
Be sure to provide them with the information they'll need. Translation: names of wedding hosts/sponsors (usually parents), names of bride and groom, day of the week, date, time, address of the ceremony and/or reception and RSVP info, unless you're including response cards. Click here for an idea of how your invitation should be laid out.
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Proof First
Just before your invitations go to print, the stationer/designer will forward you a proof of the actual version for review. Some may send a copy via fax, where you'll check the text for spelling errors and confirm the accuracy of date, time and other important information. Sometimes you'll receive a true-to-life template where you'll be able to check colors, graphics, alignment, resolution, etc. As you carefully review, double-check the date, just to be on the safe side!
You might also want someone else to double check to be sure that everything is in order. It can be easy to miss a simple error and once you approve, that's it.
Sealed and Delivered
You should send your invitations out at least 6-8 weeks before your wedding.
Write, Right?
It's customary to handwrite your guests' addresses instead of typing or printing out computer labels.
For more great tips, see our wedding invites section.
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