Wedding Stationery Budget: How Much to Spend on Invitations and Extras

When you start planning your Bristol wedding, the first thing that makes the numbers jump is the stationery. From save‑the‑dates to thank‑you cards, each piece adds up. The good news? You don’t have to break the bank to look polished. Below are the real costs you can expect and simple ways to stretch every pound.

What’s the Average Cost of Wedding Invitations?

Most couples in the UK spend between £300 and £800 on a standard 150‑guest set. That range covers printed cards, envelopes, and basic postage. If you’re buying custom designs or fancy paper, the price can creep toward £1,200. Knowing this helps you decide where to cut – maybe skip the RSVP cards and use an online form instead.

Practical Ways to Cut Stationery Costs

1. Go digital for the basics. A simple e‑save‑the‑date saves on printing and postage. Most guests don’t mind a well‑designed email, especially if you add a personal photo.

2. Buy in bulk. Ordering 200 cards at once often drops the per‑card price by 20‑30%. Even if your guest list is smaller, you can share leftovers with family.

3. Choose a local printer. Bristol has several boutique printers who can match high‑end designs for half the price of big chains. Bring a clear idea of paper weight and ink to avoid hidden fees.

4. Skip the extras. Envelope liners, wax seals, and matching RSVP cards look nice but add up fast. A clean design with a simple monogram can be just as striking.

5. Use a DIY template. Websites like Canva offer free wedding invitation templates. You only pay for printing, which means you can control the material and still get a professional look.

Remember to factor in postage. Bulk letters cost about £0.80 each, while larger, heavier invitations can be £1.20. If you’re sending out 120 invites, that’s an extra £96 you need to budget for.

Another tip is to combine stationery items. A single “invite + RSVP” card reduces paper, printing, and envelopes—all at once. Many Bristol venues even provide a blank space for this format.

Finally, track every expense in a spreadsheet. Seeing the total spend at a glance prevents surprise overruns and lets you shift money to other areas, like flowers or photography.

By understanding the average costs and applying a few smart shortcuts, you can keep your wedding stationery budget in check without compromising style. Your guests will still receive beautiful, heartfelt pieces that set the tone for your special day.