Save the Dates Price: What You Really Pay and How to Save
When you’re planning a wedding, save the dates, physical or digital cards sent early to reserve guests’ calendars. Also known as wedding invitations precursors, they’re the first real touchpoint guests have with your big day. But here’s the thing—most people have no idea what a fair save the dates price should be. You see a pretty design online, click buy, and suddenly you’re spending $200 on 100 cards when you could’ve done it for half that.
It’s not just about paper and ink. The price jumps based on printing method, how the design is transferred to the card—digital, letterpress, foil stamping, paper weight, thicker stock feels luxe but costs more, and envelope lining, colored or textured envelopes add flair—and cost. A basic digital print on standard cardstock? Around $0.50 to $0.80 per card. Foil-stamped letterpress with custom envelopes? That’s $2 to $4 each. Multiply that by 100 guests, and you’re looking at $100 to $400 before postage.
Postage is where people get blindsided. Save the dates are usually larger than regular mail, so they often need extra stamps. In the UK, a standard letter costs 85p, but if your card is over 100g or exceeds A5 size, you’re paying £1.35 or more per piece. For 100 cards, that’s another £135 just to mail them. And if you’re sending them overseas? That’s even higher. Skip the fancy envelopes, go for standard size, and use online postage tools to lock in the lowest rates.
You don’t need to spend big to look polished. Many couples we’ve worked with saved hundreds by ordering online from UK-based vendors who specialize in wedding stationery—no middlemen, no markup. Digital save the dates are a solid option too, especially if you’re targeting younger guests. They’re free to send, easy to track RSVPs, and you can update them if plans change. But if you want that tangible feel? Stick to simple designs, avoid custom illustrations, and buy in bulk. A $150 budget can get you 100 high-quality cards if you know where to look.
What you’ll find below are real examples from couples who nailed their save the dates without overspending. From DIY templates that look expensive to vendors who deliver quality under £100, we’ve pulled together the best tips, price breakdowns, and honest reviews so you don’t waste money on stuff no one remembers anyway. This isn’t about being fancy—it’s about being smart.
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.