Save the Dates Cost: What You Really Need to Know Before You Print
When you’re planning a wedding, save the dates, a printed or digital notice sent to guests early to reserve their calendar. Also known as wedding invitations precursor, it’s one of the first big decisions you’ll make that actually costs money. Unlike your final invitations, save the dates don’t need to be fancy—but they still need to be done right. And that’s where people get surprised. Most couples think they’re just printing a card and mailing it. But the real cost? It’s not just paper and postage. It’s timing, design, printing method, and how many you order.
The average save the dates cost in the UK ranges from £150 to £600 for 100 guests, depending on how you play it. If you go with basic digital designs sent via email, you might spend under £50. But if you want thick cardstock, foil stamping, and hand-addressed envelopes? That’s where the price jumps. Many couples don’t realize that ordering too late adds rush fees. Others skip the envelope liner or forget postage costs for non-standard sizes. And if you’re mailing internationally? That’s another £1–£3 per piece. The good news? You can cut costs without looking cheap. Stick to standard sizes, use digital proofs to avoid printing errors, and order exactly what you need—no extra 20 cards "just in case."
Save the dates also tie into your bigger wedding stationery budget, the total amount planned for all printed wedding materials, from invites to menus. If you blow your entire stationery budget here, you’ll be stuck with flimsy invites later. Most smart planners allocate 10–15% of their total stationery budget to save the dates. That means if you’re spending £800 on all wedding paper, you should aim for £80–£120 on save the dates. You can also match your save the dates to your invitation style—same font, same color palette. It creates a cohesive look without doubling the design cost.
Timing matters too. You should send save the dates 6–8 months before your wedding, especially if you’re having a destination wedding or your guests need to book flights. Sending them too early? People forget. Too late? They’re already booked. And if you’re ordering custom designs, give yourself at least 4–6 weeks for printing and delivery. Rush orders cost more. Printing errors cost more. Missing the deadline costs you peace of mind.
There’s no single "right" way to do save the dates. Some couples use postcards. Others go digital with animated emails. A few even use QR codes that link to their wedding website. But no matter what you choose, the goal is simple: get your date on their calendar before someone else does. And do it without overspending. Below, you’ll find real examples of what couples spent, what designs worked, and how to avoid the hidden fees that sneak into every wedding budget. Whether you’re aiming for luxury or lean, you’ll find something that fits.
What Is the Standard Cost of Save the Dates for Weddings in 2025?
Save the dates for weddings typically cost between €25 and €120 for 100 cards, depending on design, material, and printing method. Learn what affects the price and how to stick to your budget in 2025.