Design Wedding Cards
Make invites and cards for your special day
Breaking Down Wedding Invitation Costs
Several factors influence the total price of wedding invitations. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses:Base Cost of Invitations
Shutterfly’s wedding invitations are available in a variety of styles and designs. The base price depends on:- The number of invitations ordered (most customers order around 70).
- The selected design and layout.
- Standard vs. premium paper options.
Enclosure Cards & RSVP Cards
Many couples choose to include additional cards with their invitations, such as:- RSVP Cards – For guests to mail back their attendance confirmation.
- Enclosure Cards – Information on accommodations, transportation, or wedding website links.
Save the Date Cards
If you send out save the dates before the invitations, this is an additional cost to factor in. On average, Shutterfly customers spend around $100 on save the dates.Envelope Costs & Addressing Options
Shutterfly invitations come with standard envelopes, but you may want to upgrade to:- Pre-lined envelopes for a polished touch.
- Address printing for convenience and a professional look.
Average Cost of Wedding Invitations
To give you a clear idea of costs, here’s what the average Shutterfly customer spends:- Save the Dates: ~$100
- Wedding Invitations + RSVP + Enclosures: ~$300
- Total Wedding Invitation Spend: ~$400
- With Foil & Upgrades: Up to $550
Factors That Affect Wedding Invitation Costs
1. Guest Count
The number of invitations you need directly affects your total cost. A common mistake is ordering too many—remember that you need one invitation per household, not per guest.2. Design & Customization Choices
Shutterfly offers a variety of personalized designs, but some upgrades will increase the price:- Foil Details – Adds a touch of luxury and makes the text shimmer.
- Unique Trim Options – Rounded, scalloped, or bracketed edges add a stylish flair.
3. Paper Quality
The type of cardstock you choose plays a big role in the overall cost of your wedding invitations. Shutterfly offers several high-quality paper options, each with different price points:- Standard Smooth Cardstock is the most budget-friendly option, offering a clean, classic look without extra cost.
- Signature Smooth Cardstock is a popular mid-tier choice, providing a more substantial feel for a slight upgrade in price.
- 100% Recycled Cardstock is an eco-friendly option that may come at a small premium due to its sustainable materials.
- Pearl Shimmer Cardstock adds a luminous, upscale finish, making it a pricier choice for those who want a touch of elegance.
- Luxe Double-Thick Cardstock is the most luxurious and costly option, offering an ultra-thick, high-end feel.
4. RSVP Method
Traditional RSVP cards add to printing and postage costs. To save, consider including an RSVP via your wedding website instead.
How to Stay Within Budget
If you’re looking for ways to control costs of your wedding invites without sacrificing quality, here are some helpful tips:1. Choose Essential Cards Only
A minimalist approach can save money—stick to just the wedding invitation and an RSVP method (either printed or digital).2. Skip Costly Extras
Upgrades like foil stamping and unique trims are beautiful but optional. Opt for classic designs for a timeless look at a lower cost.3. Order the Right Quantity
Be mindful of your guest list—ordering too many invitations wastes money, while ordering too few could mean rush fees for reprints.4. Look for Deals & Promotions
Shutterfly frequently runs sales on wedding stationery, so keep an eye out for special offers.5. Stick to Standard Envelopes
While lined or colored envelopes add elegance, they aren’t a necessity if you’re on a budget.
