Guest Invites: What You Need to Know for Your Bristol Wedding

Invitations are the first glimpse your guests get of the big day, so getting them right matters. Below you’ll find the basics of budgeting, design choices, and RSVP rules so you can send out invites without stress.

How Much Do Wedding Invitations Really Cost?

Most couples spend between £3 and £7 per invite, but the price can jump if you add custom sleeves, ribbons, or premium printing. A set of 100 standard cards usually lands around £350, while a high‑end package can top £800. To keep costs down, order a little extra for mistakes and compare at least three printers before you decide.

Tip: Many Bristol venues have preferred suppliers who offer a discount for local businesses. Ask your venue manager if they can point you to a reliable, budget‑friendly printer.

RSVP Etiquette Made Simple

RSVP means “please respond,” and the V stands for “vou répondre” in French. It’s the polite way to ask guests to confirm if they’ll attend. Include a clear deadline—usually two weeks before the ceremony—so you have enough time to finalize numbers with your caterer.

Offer more than one way to reply. A reply card with a pre‑peeled stamp is classic, but a short URL or a simple email address works just as well. Whichever method you choose, make sure the instructions are easy to follow.

Don’t forget to track responses. A small spreadsheet with columns for name, RSVP status, and dietary notes helps you spot missing replies quickly.

Design-wise, keep the look in line with your wedding theme. If you’re going for a rustic Bristol vibe, think kraft paper, handwritten fonts, and a sprig of lavender tucked inside. For an elegant city celebration, opt for clean lines, navy or ivory colors, and a subtle foil accent.

Remember that the envelope matters too. A matching envelope makes the invite look finished, and a wax seal can add a personal touch without breaking the bank.

When you’re ready to send, hand‑write the names on the outer envelope. It adds a personal feel and reduces the risk of incorrect addresses. If you have a large guest list, a printed address label works fine—just double‑check each line.

Finally, think about timing. Send your invites six to eight weeks before the wedding if many guests are traveling. For a local Bristol crowd, four weeks is usually enough.

Putting these pieces together—budget, design, RSVP handling—gives you a solid guest‑invite plan. You’ll avoid last‑minute surprises, stay within budget, and set the tone for a day your guests will love.

Got more questions about guest invites? Browse our other articles on budgeting, wedding stationery trends, and RSVP best practices for deeper advice.