Invitation Costs – What to Expect and How to Save

When you start planning your Bristol wedding, the first thing you see the price of is the invitation suite. That’s because invites set the tone for the whole day and they add up fast. The good news? Knowing the typical price range helps you plan a realistic budget and avoid nasty surprises.

Breaking Down the Numbers

Most couples order around 100 invitations. In 2025 the average spend for a set of 100 standard paper invites sits between £450 and £750. The spread is wide because you can choose a basic 3‑piece design, a luxe foil‑stamped set, or a fully custom printed suite with envelopes, RSVP cards and lining.

Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Basic paper invites: £4‑£5 per piece – about £400‑£500 for 100.
• Mid‑range designs (embossed, spot‑UV): £6‑£8 per piece – roughly £600‑£800 for 100.
• Premium custom suites (letterpress, hand‑calligraphed): £9‑£12 per piece – can exceed £1,000 for 100.

Remember to add envelope costs (usually £0.60‑£1 each) and any extra items such as thank‑you cards or programme inserts. Those little extras can add another £100‑£200.

Tips to Cut Costs Without Cutting Style

You don’t have to settle for cheap paper to stay under budget. Try these practical ideas:

• Print locally: Bristol printers often have lower setup fees than big online firms. A quick phone call can save you £100‑£200.
• Combine cards: Use one card for the invitation, RSVP and details instead of three separate pieces. Fewer prints mean lower total cost.
• Choose a simple envelope: A plain, high‑quality envelope looks classy and costs far less than a lined or patterned one.
• Order a little extra: Buying 10‑15 extra invites upfront is cheaper than a separate re‑print later if you need more.
• DIY calligraphy: If you like a personal touch, hand‑write names on the envelopes. A set of calligraphy pens costs under £20 and adds a unique feel.

Another smart move is to shop seasonal sales. Many stationery shops in Bristol run discounts right after the wedding season, offering up to 30 % off on premium designs.

Finally, track every expense in a spreadsheet. Seeing the total cost of invites alongside other line items (venue, dress, photographer) makes it easier to shift money around if needed.

Bottom line: expect to spend about £500‑£800 for 100 quality invitations in 2025, but with local printers, combined cards and a few DIY touches you can bring that number down without losing style. Use the numbers above as a baseline, apply the savings tips, and you’ll keep your invitation costs in line with the rest of your Bristol wedding budget.