Wedding Invitations

Wedding invitations printed near you

A wedding invitation sets the tone before anyone arrives, and it has a job to do: it needs to tell your guests clearly where to be, and when. We print invitations for local couples from their own design, from a template bought online, or from a simple idea that we help set up. You can come in to Gatton Road to look at card and finishes, and we can check the wording with you.

What to include

A typical invitation includes the following:

• The hosts or the couple's names
• The date, including the day of the week and the year
• Start time, and an arrival time if needed
• The name and full address of the ceremony and reception venue
• Dress code, if there is one
• RSVP details and a reply-by date

Details such as directions, accommodation, children, gift lists and a wedding website are better on a separate insert card or a website. Too many details on one card can make it look crowded. If your guests include older relatives, make sure the phone number and the postal details are easy to find.

Wording etiquette

Traditional wording names the bride's parents as hosts, though modern couples often host themselves or share the role. Common styles are "request the pleasure of your company" (for a formal civil event) and "request the honour of your presence" (used more for religious ceremonies). A relaxed invitation can simply say "We're getting married, please come and celebrate with us". Whatever you choose, make it sound like you.

Choosing card and finish

Option	Effect
Uncoated card, around 300 to 350gsm	Classic and elegant, and easy to write on
Matt or silk	Smooth, good for photos and strong colour
Textured or linen card	A traditional, tactile feel
Foil	Metallic accents on names or borders
Vellum wrap or overlay	A delicate, semi-transparent layer

Ask us for samples, as card feels different in the hand from how it looks on a screen. Foil and other special finishes may need extra time and a separate quote.

Sizes and envelopes

A5, A6 and 5 x 7 inch are all popular sizes for invitations. Square invitations can look stylish, but may cost more to post. Weigh a complete sample with any inserts before you buy stamps, as a heavier or thicker invitation could need more postage. We can supply matching envelopes and print a return address on the flap.

Getting the timing right

Send save the dates 6 to 12 months ahead, if you are sending them, and invitations about 2 to 4 months before the wedding, or a little earlier for destination weddings. Allow two weeks for approvals and print. RSVP deadlines are usually 4 to 6 weeks before the date, so you can give the venue final numbers. Order 10% more than you need, because you will almost certainly remember someone at the last minute, and you will want one or two as keepsakes.

From invitation to on-the-day stationery

Once you have your design, it is simple to carry it through to orders of service, menus, place cards, a table plan and a welcome sign. Artwork set-up is free when we print, so a consistent look need not cost extra. We will show you a proof of everything, and we suggest you read it aloud together and check each name and date.