How to Build a Wedding Stationery Budget That Works
Planning wedding paper goods can feel pricey, but you don’t have to break the bank. First, list every piece you need – save‑the‑date cards, invitations, RSVP cards, and thank‑you notes. Knowing exactly what you need stops you from ordering extras you’ll never use.
Next, set a realistic total amount. Look at your overall wedding budget and decide what percentage feels right for stationery. Many couples spend 2‑5% of the total budget on paper goods. If your wedding is $20,000, that means $400‑$1,000 for all the cards. Write that number down and stick to it.
Know Your Must‑Haves
Not every item is essential. Ask yourself: do I really need a separate save‑the‑date card? Some couples skip them and put the date on the wedding website instead. If you choose to send them, print them at home or use a simple online template – that can cut the cost by half.
Invitations are the centerpiece of your stationery set. Choose a design that matches your theme but keep the paper type simple. Premium textured paper looks fancy but adds $2‑$3 per card. A smooth matte finish can look just as classy for less.
RSVP cards are another place to save. Use a single‑page RSVP with a tear‑off section, or even embed a QR code that leads guests to an online response form. This eliminates the need for separate RSVP cards and postage.
Smart Ways to Cut Costs
Buy in bulk. Ordering a larger run of the same design reduces the per‑card price. Many printers offer a discount once you hit 100 pieces. If you have a small guest list, combine the invitation and RSVP onto one sheet to keep the order size up.
Consider DIY printing. A decent home printer can handle cardstock, and many free design tools let you create professional‑looking layouts. Print a test sheet first to avoid costly mistakes.Ask family or friends for help. Someone might have a good eye for design or own a high‑quality printer. A personal touch also adds charm that you can’t get from a generic template.
Don’t forget postage. Weigh your final envelope with all the cards inside to get an accurate price. Envelopes that are too heavy cost extra. If you’re sending multiple pieces, use a single envelope per household instead of one per guest.
Finally, keep track of every expense. Use a simple spreadsheet: column for item, cost per unit, quantity, and total. Watching the numbers grow helps you stay on target and makes adjustments easier.
With a clear list, a set percentage, and a few cost‑saving tricks, you can create beautiful wedding stationery without blowing your budget. Stick to the plan, get creative, and enjoy the process – your guests will love the final result, and you’ll keep more money for the reception.
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