Wedding invitations cost – what to expect and how to budget

When you start planning your Bristol wedding, the first thing many couples hit is the invitation bill. It’s not just a piece of paper; it sets the tone and tells guests what to expect. Knowing the real cost helps you keep the rest of the budget in check.

Average wedding invitation pricing

Most couples spend between £1 and £3 per standard invite when they order in bulk from a local printer. Premium designs with custom foil, letterpress, or hand‑cut details can jump to £4‑£7 each. If you add matching RSVP cards, envelopes, and postage, expect an extra £0.50‑£1 per set.

In Bristol, many boutique print shops charge around £2‑£2.50 for a basic 5‑piece set (invite, RSVP card, details card, envelope, and seal). High‑end studios that use handmade paper or laser‑cut edges commonly price a 5‑piece set at £5‑£8. Remember, prices rise with smaller print runs, so ordering 200‑300 copies usually gets you the best rate.

Smart ways to keep costs down

1. Print early. Booking 8‑12 weeks in advance gives you time to shop around and avoid rush fees.
2. Choose a simple design. Clean typography on good quality cardstock can look elegant without pricey embellishments.
3. Combine cards. Merge the RSVP and details onto one sheet to cut paper and printing costs.
4. Use local printers. Bristol’s community printers often give discounts for wedding orders, especially if you visit in person.
5. DIY sealing. Buying wax seals or stickers in bulk is cheaper than having a printer add them.

Don’t forget hidden costs: custom envelopes, addressing services, and postage. Hand‑addressed envelopes can add £0.20‑£0.30 each, but a simple printed address label saves both time and money. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a digital RSVP option and only mail the main invite.

Another budget‑friendly trick is to order a sample set before committing. This lets you see the paper feel and print quality without spending on a full run. Many Bristol shops will charge a small fee that’s refunded when you place a larger order.

Finally, make a quick checklist before you sign any contract:

• Number of guests (including plus‑ones)
• Design style and any special finishes
• All pieces needed (invite, RSVP, details, envelope, seal)
• Timeline for proofs and final printing
• Potential extra costs – addressing, postage, shipping

Keeping these points in mind lets you spend wisely on invitations while still delivering a beautiful first impression for your Bristol wedding.