Envelope addressing etiquette
When addressing your wedding invitation envelopes, it's important to follow proper etiquette in order to convey the right level of formality and respect to your guests. Here are a few tips for addressing your invitation envelopes:
Use formal titles such as "Mr." and "Mrs." for married couples, and "Miss" or "Ms." for unmarried women.
Use the full names of your guests, including their middle initials if desired.
Address the envelopes to both members of a married or cohabiting couple using "and" rather than "&."
Use proper abbreviations for street names, state names, and titles.
Avoid using nicknames or shortened versions of names.
If you are including children's names on the invitation, list their names on the inner envelope only.
Invitation etiquette
In addition to addressing the envelopes correctly, there are a few other etiquette rules to follow when it comes to wedding invitations:
Include the names of the hosts (usually the parents of the couple) on the invitation.
Make sure the invitation includes all necessary information, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception.
If your wedding will be a formal, black tie affair, be sure to specify this on the invitation.
If you are inviting children to your wedding, it's a good idea to specify this on the invitation.
If you are having a destination wedding, it's a good idea to include information about accommodations and travel on the invitation or as an enclosure.
RSVP etiquette
RSVP cards, also known as response cards, allow guests to let you know whether or not they will be attending your wedding. Here are a few tips for handling RSVPs:
Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with the RSVP card to make it easier for your guests to respond.
Specify a deadline for RSVPs, such as one month before the wedding.
Follow up with any guests who have not responded to your RSVP request.
If you are using a digital RSVP system, be sure to include clear instructions for how to respond.
Invitation language
The language used on your wedding invitations should be formal and respectful, and should reflect the style and formality of your wedding. Here are a few tips for choosing the right language for your invitations:
Use formal titles such as "Mr." and "Mrs." for married couples, and "Miss" or "Ms." for unmarried women.
Use proper abbreviations for street names, state names, and titles.
Avoid using nicknames or shortened versions of names.
Use traditional wedding phrases such as "request the honor of your presence" or "invite you to celebrate" to convey a formal tone.
If you are having a non-traditional or casual wedding, consider using more informal language on your invitations.
What are budget wedding invitations?
Budget wedding invitations are affordable options for couples who are looking to save money on their wedding expenses. These invitations are typically made from cheaper materials and may not have as many fancy embellishments as more expensive options. However, budget invitations can still be stylish and elegant, and there are many options available to suit different tastes and themes.
How much do budget wedding invitations cost?
The cost of budget wedding invitations can vary widely, depending on the materials used, the printing process, and the number of invitations you need. On average, budget invitations may cost anywhere from a few dollars to $10 or more per invitation. Keep in mind that the more invitations you need, the more you will save on a per-invitation basis.
Where can I find budget wedding invitations?
There are many places where you can find budget wedding invitations. Some popular options include online retailers, discount stores, and print-on-demand companies. You can also find budget invitations at craft stores, where you can purchase blank invitations and create your own design.
What are some tips for finding the best budget wedding invitations?
To find the best budget wedding invitations, consider the following tips:
Shop around: Compare prices at different retailers and websites to find the best deal.
Look for sales and discounts: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, especially around holidays or at the end of the wedding season.
Choose simpler designs: Opt for invitations with fewer embellishments or simpler designs, as these will typically be cheaper to produce.
Order in bulk: The more invitations you need, the more you will save on a per-invitation basis.
How can I save money on budget wedding invitations?
There are several ways to save money on budget wedding invitations:
Use a print-on-demand service: Print-on-demand companies allow you to customize and print your own invitations, which can be a more affordable option than purchasing pre-made invitations.
DIY: If you're crafty, you can create your own invitations by purchasing blank cards and adding your own design.
Use digital invitations: Digital invitations, which can be sent via email or text, are becoming increasingly popular and can be a more affordable option than traditional paper invitations.
Consider alternative materials: Consider using alternative materials, such as recycled paper or cardboard, which can be less expensive than traditional invitation paper.
What are some popular budget wedding invitation styles?
There are many popular styles of budget wedding invitations to choose from, including:
Rustic: Rustic invitations, which often feature natural materials and earthy colors, are popular for outdoor or country-themed weddings.
Classic: Classic invitations, which often feature elegant fonts and traditional designs, are a timeless choice for formal weddings.
Modern: Modern invitations feature contemporary designs and fonts, and are a popular choice for couples having a more contemporary wedding.
Vintage: Vintage invitations, which often feature antique or distressed designs, are a popular choice for vintage-themed weddings.
What information should be included on budget wedding invitations?
Budget wedding invitations should include all of the necessary information about your wedding, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. You should also include the names of the bride and groom, and any information about the dress code or theme of the wedding. It's also a good idea to include a response card or email address so guests can RSVP.
Materials:
Budget wedding invitations can be made from a variety of materials, including paper, cardstock, cardboard, and even recycled materials. Consider the theme of your wedding and the level of formality when choosing the material for your invitations. For example, a formal, black tie wedding may call for more expensive, high-quality paper, while a casual beach wedding may be well-suited to less expensive, recycled materials.
Printing:
There are several printing options available for budget wedding invitations, including traditional offset printing, digital printing, and letterpress printing. Offset printing is the most common and affordable option, and allows for a wide range of colors and designs. Digital printing is a more recent technology that allows for shorter turnaround times and more flexibility in design, but may be more expensive. Letterpress printing involves pressing ink into the paper to create a raised, tactile effect, and is typically more expensive than other printing methods.
Envelopes:
Wedding invitations typically come with envelopes, which can be made from the same material as the invitation itself or from a different material. If you're trying to save money on your invitations, consider opting for plain envelopes or envelopes made from a cheaper material. You can also save money by addressing the envelopes yourself rather than hiring a calligrapher.
Response cards:
Response cards, also known as RSVP cards, allow guests to let you know whether or not they will be attending your wedding. Response cards typically come with a pre-printed return envelope, which can add to the cost of your invitations. To save money, consider using a self-addressed, stamped postcard as a response card, or using a digital RSVP system.
Extra details:
There are many additional details you can include on your budget wedding invitations, such as maps, directions, accommodation information, and registry details. However, keep in mind that the more information you include, the more expensive your invitations will be. Consider what is absolutely necessary and what can be left out in order to save money.
Customization:
Many couples want to personalize their wedding invitations to reflect their personalities and style. If you're on a budget, consider using a template or pre-designed invitation and adding your own custom touches, such as a monogram or special font. You can also customize your invitations by choosing your own paper, envelopes, and printing method.
Ordering:
When ordering your budget wedding invitations, it's important to order enough to cover your guest list and allow for a few extra in case of mistakes or misprints. Keep in mind that you will also need additional envelopes for the response cards and any additional enclosures, such as maps or accommodation information. It's also a good idea to order a few extra invitations to keep as keepsakes.
Where to buy budget wedding invitations and details re printing, extras and more
Online retailers: One option for finding budget wedding invitations is to shop online at retailers that specialize in wedding invitations. These retailers often offer a wide range of styles and price points, and many offer customization options such as the ability to choose your own paper and fonts. Some popular online retailers for budget wedding invitations include Etsy, Minted, and Zazzle.
Discount stores: Another option for finding budget wedding invitations is to shop at discount stores such as Dollar Tree or Walmart. These stores often carry a limited selection of pre-made invitations, as well as blank invitations that you can customize yourself.
Print-on-demand companies: Print-on-demand companies allow you to design and print your own invitations using templates or by uploading your own design. These companies often have a wide range of materials and printing options available, and can be a more affordable option than purchasing pre-made invitations. Some popular print-on-demand companies for wedding invitations include Shutterfly and Printful.
Craft stores: Craft stores such as Michaels or Hobby Lobby often carry a selection of blank invitations and other supplies such as envelopes and printing tools. You can purchase these supplies and create your own invitations, which can be a more affordable option than purchasing pre-made invitations.
Digital invitations: Digital invitations are becoming increasingly popular as a budget-friendly alternative to traditional paper invitations. These invitations can be sent via email or text, and can be customized with your own design or using a template. Digital invitations are typically free or very inexpensive, and can save you the cost of printing and mailing physical invitations.
Alternative materials: Consider using alternative materials for your budget wedding invitations, such as recycled paper or cardboard. These materials can be less expensive than traditional invitation paper, and can also be a more eco-friendly option.
Handmade invitations: If you're looking for a truly unique and budget-friendly invitation option, consider making your own invitations by hand. Handmade invitations can be as simple or elaborate as you like, and can be customized to suit your wedding theme and style. You can create your own invitations using a variety of materials such as paper, cardboard, fabric, or even wood.
Printable invitations: Another option for budget wedding invitations is to purchase or design your own printable invitations. Printable invitations are digital files that you can download and print at home or at a local printer. Many online retailers and print-on-demand companies offer a wide range of printable invitation templates and designs, and you can often customize these templates with your own text and details.
Kits: If you're interested in making your own invitations but don't want to start from scratch, consider purchasing a DIY invitation kit. These kits often include everything you need to create your own invitations, such as blank cards, envelopes, and any necessary embellishments. DIY invitation kits can be a more affordable option than purchasing pre-made invitations, and can also allow you to create a truly unique invitation.
Postcards: Postcards can be a more affordable alternative to traditional wedding invitations, especially if you're having a casual or destination wedding. Postcards are typically less expensive to produce and mail than traditional invitations, and can be a fun and unique way to invite your guests.
Save the dates: Save the dates are a pre-wedding announcement that let your guests know the date and location of your wedding. Save the dates are typically sent out a few months in advance of the wedding, and can be a more budget-friendly alternative to traditional invitations if you're having a more casual wedding or if you're inviting a large number of guests. Save the dates can be as simple as a postcard or as elaborate as a full invitation, depending on your budget and style.
Paperless invitations: Another option for budget wedding invitations is to use a paperless invitation service such as Greenvelope or Paperless Post. These services allow you to create and send digital invitations via email or text, and often offer a wide range of templates and customization options. Paperless invitations are typically free or very inexpensive, and can save you the cost of printing and mailing physical invitations.
Print-at-home kits: If you want to create your own invitations but don't have the tools or skills to do so, consider purchasing a print-at-home invitation kit. These kits often include everything you need to create your own invitations, such as pre-designed templates, paper, envelopes, and instructions. You can print the invitations at home using your own printer, or take them to a local printer for a professional finish.
Envelope liners: Envelope liners are a decorative element that can add a touch of elegance to your wedding invitations. However, envelope liners can also add to the cost of your invitations. If you're looking to save money, consider opting for plain envelopes or using a cheaper material for your envelope liners.
Calligraphy: Many couples choose to hire a calligrapher to address their wedding invitations, which can add a touch of elegance and personalized charm to the invitations. However, calligraphy can also be expensive, especially if you're inviting a large number of guests. If you're on a budget, consider addressing the invitations yourself or using a more affordable printing method such as digital printing.
Extra enclosures: There are many additional enclosures that you can include with your wedding invitations, such as maps, directions, accommodation information, and registry details. While these enclosures can be helpful for your guests, they can also add to the cost of your invitations. Consider what information is absolutely necessary and what can be left out in order to save money.
Invitation suites: Invitation suites are a set of coordinating wedding stationery items that typically include the invitation, response card, and envelope. Invitation suites can be a more expensive option than purchasing each item separately, but can also be more convenient and cohesive. If you're on a budget, consider purchasing each item separately or opting for a simpler invitation suite with fewer items.
Add-ons: There are many additional items that you can add to your wedding invitations, such as envelope seals, ribbon, or wax seals. While these add-ons can add a touch of elegance and personalization to your invitations, they can also add to the cost. Consider what add-ons are absolutely necessary and what can be left out in order to save money.
Printing methods: There are several printing methods available for wedding invitations, including offset printing, digital printing, and letterpress printing. Offset printing is the most common and affordable option, and allows for a wide range of colors and designs. Digital printing is a more recent technology that allows for shorter turnaround times and more flexibility in design, but may be more expensive. Letterpress printing involves pressing ink into the paper to create a raised, tactile effect, and is typically more expensive than other printing methods.
Envelope styles: There are many styles of envelopes available for wedding invitations, including standard envelopes, square envelopes, and pocket envelopes. Standard envelopes are the most common and affordable option, while square envelopes and pocket envelopes may be more expensive. Consider the style and formality of your wedding when choosing the envelope style for your invitations.
Invitation wording: The wording on your wedding invitations should convey all of the necessary information about your wedding, such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and reception. The wording should also include the names of the bride and groom, and any information about the dress code or theme of the wedding. There are many traditional and modern invitation wording options to choose from, so consider what style best fits your wedding and your personalities.
Alternative invitation options
If you're looking for a more unique or budget-friendly invitation option, consider some of these alternative ideas:
E-invitations: E-invitations are digital invitations that can be sent via email or text. E-invitations are typically free or very inexpensive, and can be a convenient and eco-friendly option.
Social media: Many couples now use social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram to announce their engagement and share wedding details. While social media may not be a traditional invitation option, it can be a more affordable and casual way to share your wedding information with your guests.
Phone or video call: If you have a small guest list, consider inviting your guests in person or over the phone. This can be a more personal and intimate way to invite your guests, and can also save you the cost of printing and mailing invitations.
Handwritten notes: Handwritten notes can be a more personal and budget-friendly alternative to traditional invitations. You can write a simple note to each of your guests, explaining the details of your wedding and inviting them to attend.
Invitation inspiration: If you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed with the process of choosing and designing your wedding invitations, consider looking for inspiration from sources such as wedding blogs, Pinterest, or wedding magazines. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have recently gotten married, or seek out the advice of a wedding planner or stationery designer.