Average Wedding Invitation Price – What You’ll Really Pay
Planning a wedding means juggling a lot of numbers, and invitations are often one of the first expenses you notice. So, how much should you budget for them? The short answer is that most couples spend between £2 and £8 per invite, but the real picture depends on a few key choices.
What Determines the Cost?
First, the type of paper matters. A thick, textured cardstock will cost more than a standard 250gsm smooth paper. Add a custom foil stamp, embossing, or a laser-cut pattern, and you’re looking at the top end of the range or even beyond it.
Second, the design complexity plays a big role. A simple single‑page layout printed on both sides is cheaper than a multi‑fold, die‑cut, or fully hand‑lettered suite. If you hire a professional designer, factor in their fee – most designers charge anywhere from £50 to £300 for a custom set.
Third, the quantity you order influences the unit price. Ordering 150 invites might bring the cost down to £2.50 each, while a tiny guest list of 50 can push it up to £6 or more per piece. Bulk printing discounts are real, so order only what you need and avoid extra waste.
Finally, add‑ons like envelopes, liners, and return postage sleeves add up. A quality envelope with a matching liner can add £0.30‑£0.80 per set. If you want a separate RSVP card, that’s another cost to consider.
Tips to Keep Your Invitation Budget in Check
Look for printable templates online. Many sites offer free or low‑cost designs that you can customize in Word or Canva. Print them at home on sturdy paper, or take them to a local print shop for a modest fee.
Mix and match. Use a more elaborate design for the main invitation and a simple, printed RSVP card. This keeps the overall look cohesive without blowing the budget.
Consider a mini‑suite. Instead of a full‑size invite, a small card with essential details plus a link to a wedding website can save both money and space.
Buy in batches. If you’re comfortable with a little DIY, order the cardstock and envelopes separately, then assemble at home. This splits the cost and lets you add personal touches.
Shop around. Compare quotes from at least three printers, and don’t forget to ask about hidden fees like setup charges or shipping. Some printers waive setup fees for larger orders, which can bring the per‑invite cost down.
Remember the timeline. Rushing an order usually means a premium. Give yourself at least 8‑10 weeks from design approval to final delivery to avoid last‑minute surcharges.
When you add everything up—paper, printing, envelopes, liners, and design—you’ll have a realistic picture of your invitation budget. For most UK couples, a reasonable range sits between £300 and £1,200 for a standard 100‑guest wedding.
Bottom line: know what you want, compare options, and plan ahead. With a clear budget and a few smart shortcuts, you can get beautiful wedding invitations without breaking the bank.
Average Wedding Invitation Cost in 2025: Real Prices, Budget Calculator & Postage
What couples spend on wedding invitations in 2025. Real price ranges by option and region, a simple budget formula, postage pitfalls, and smart ways to save.