Your Invitation is Your Guests’ First Glance

How Much to Spend and When to Send Wedding Invitations

Q: How much should I be budgeting for a stationer?

A: Paper costs vary on whether you get a custom designed invitation suite versus an album selection from a local paper boutique. For a basic wedding suite (invitation and RSVP card with envelopes), be prepared to spend $700 and up to $5,000) for 100 guest invitations. Your cost depends on the printing method from flat digital to elegant letterpress or engraved invitations. Additional enclosures such as reception or weekend details, customized maps, embellishments, art, hand-crafted work and assemblage add expense. Calligraphy averages $3.50 to $4 per envelope. Talk to your stationer about how much to budget for wedding day paper needs based on your wish-list.

Blush and Blue Calligraphy Orange Wedding Invites How Much to Spend and When to Send Wedding Invitations Robinson — STATIONER Blush & Blue Calligraphy and Design | PHOTO Images by Amber Robinson

Wedding Stationery Timeline

11-12 Months

Narrow down your guest list and ask your wedding party if they can participate/attend

8 Months

Begin designing save the dates (this is where engagement photos are super helpful!)

6 Months

Send out save-the-dates

4-6 Months

Select wedding invitations and thank you notes

2 Months

Mail your wedding invitations and start designing any day-of stationery (escort cards, dinner menus, programs etc.)

1 Month

Confirm RSVPs

Wedding Day

Make sure your photographer captures a beautiful flat lay of your wedding paper

4 Weeks Later

Send out thank you notes

If It's Paper Blue Wedding Invites How Much too Spend and When to Send Wedding Invitations Robinson — STATIONER If It's Paper

Did COVID-19 postpone your wedding? Send out “Change the Dates”

Once you’ve got your new date set, have fun with your invitations! Already ordered invitations and don’t want to scrap ‘em? Consider adding a paper insert or vellum overlay that highlights the new date and any other updated details. Order save the date cards with a slight alteration in wording. Instead of “Save the Dates” you’ll be sending “Change the Dates”!