FAQs

How is your pricing determined for an invitation suite?

Pricing can vary greatly depending on the quantity you need, print methods you’d like, and the qualities of artwork you’re interested in. The number of pieces required can also affect the price (for more on this please see the next question). If you’d like an estimate, please fill out or inquiry form here, and when specifying your budget for paper goods please note if this is solely for invitations or additional needs as well (e.g. save the dates, day-of items, and personal stationery).

What pieces should my invitation suite consist of?

A basic invitation suite consists of four essential pieces: a main invitation, a reply card, and envelopes for both. When receptions following a wedding ceremony are held in a different location, a “reception card” is also printed. Additional inserts may be considered for providing guests with directions, accommodations and any other helpful event specifics. However, if guests can access this information on a website, printing a "web card" with the url is an alternative way to provide these details.

How many invitations should I order?

Because invitations are often being mailed to couples or families, the quantity of invitations you will order should be lower than your total guest count. Considering the number of “households” you’ll be inviting is helpful in determining this number. We recommend an additional 20% to account for any last-minute guests and a few keepsakes. A second round of printing is much more costly than having a few extra sets, so printing enough right from the start is always the best policy.

What types of custom artwork can you create?

Looking through our gallery will give you some great visual examples of the work we do, such as pattern design and spot illustrations. For specialty print methods (letterpress, foil stamping, engraving), pen & ink drawing that is scanned and digitized is our process of choice for creating print-ready files, but pencil renderings and watercolor painting are options as well. Whether you're interested in architectural elements, natural surroundings, geometric patterns, or just a sense of whimsy, we're here to tailor your artwork to best showcase your story and special occasion.

How long does the custom design process take?

The turnaround time for custom printed products depends upon the complexity of original artwork being created and the print production methods selected. An invitation suite with original artwork, specialty printing and hand calligraphy will commonly take 10 weeks from the design phase to mailing. 5 to 6 months prior to your event is a great time to begin custom designing invitations. 

When should I mail out my wedding invitations?

Eight weeks prior your event date is a standard recommended schedule for mailing invitations, based on traditional etiquette guidelines. 10+ weeks is recommended for destination events or guest lists that include many long distance travelers. 

Can I match my design colors to another print sample or fabric swatch?

Any time clients provide color inspiration (in a photo, fabric swatch or print sample), Paper With Benefits will strive to match colors as closely as possible to them. We are always happy to guide you to the best available option while navigating the inherent variations in color output from different printing methods on different kinds of paper.

How much postage will my invitations need?

The size and weight of invitations commonly exceeds the maximum requirements for mailing a standard 1st class 1oz envelope, especially invitations printed on thick paper and containing multiple inserts. While we do provide a postage estimate once all the exact elements for an invitation have been decided, we always strongly recommend that clients get a quote directly from their local post office to account for any differences in postal scales.

What does Reception or “Day-Of” Stationery consist of?

Reception or "day-of" stationery items frequently include: menus, programs, table numbers, escort cards, place cards, welcome notes, custom beverage napkins and guest towels, signage for items such as photo booths, cocktails, dessert bars, and anything else we can imagine that will add a creative edge to your occasion.

Should I order place cards, escort cards, or both?

Escort Cards inform your guests which table they will be seated at, and are indispensable for any formal event where guests will be served dinner. For parties or receptions where the host or hosts have also assigned seats at each table, a Place Card should be included at every place setting at each table. Whereas you may include couples on a single Escort Card, Place Cards are for each individual guest.