Article: How many wedding invitations to order: our 5 tips for estimating correctly
How many wedding invitations to order: our 5 tips for estimating correctly
Ordering your wedding invitations is both an exciting and delicate step. One of the first questions that future newlyweds ask themselves is simple... on the surface: how many invitations should we order? An accurate estimate helps avoid last-minute oversights, unnecessary printing, and the stress of a rushed order. At Innocence, we know how important this step is, and we will guide you in calculating the ideal number of invitations.
1. Number of guests ≠ number of invitations
The most common mistake is to think that you need one invitation per guest. In most cases, one copy is enough for a household or couple. For example, if your list has 120 guests, you won't need to order 120 invitations. Depending on the composition of your families and couples, the actual number will be between 60 and 80 copies.
This distinction is essential for controlling your budget and avoiding unnecessary printing. It also allows you to focus on the quality and design of your invitations, rather than the quantity.
2. Estimating the right number: how to accurately assess your needs
The first step is to draw up a complete list of recipients. To do this, take into account:
- Married couples or couples living together: 1 announcement for two people.
- Families with children living under the same roof: 1 announcement for the whole family.
- Single people: 1 invitation per person.
- Relatives living abroad or separately: 1 per person or per address, depending on the situation.
Next, don't forget to plan for a few extra copies for:
- People invited only to the ceremony or reception.
- Your witnesses, parents, and grandparents, to keep as a memento.
- Your photo albums, so you can include a copy to immortalize the invitation in your memories.
This step will enable you to calculate an accurate figure tailored to your wedding, while ensuring that nothing is overlooked.
3. Always allow for a margin
Ordering a small surplus from the outset is highly recommended. This allows you to deal with unforeseen circumstances and avoid costly and time-consuming reprints. In general, a margin of 5 to 10 additional invitations is sufficient to cover any oversights or last-minute invitations.
This simple precaution gives you peace of mind and allows you to calmly tackle the rest of your preparations.
4. Special cases to anticipate
Certain situations require special attention:
- Different versions of the invitation: if some guests are invited only to the civil ceremony and others only to the reception, each version must be counted separately.
- Special invitations for side events: brunch, cocktail party, or private party. Each of these invitations must be added to your estimate.
- International invitations: for your loved ones living abroad, take into account shipping times and any postal charges.
Anticipating these details from the outset saves you from last-minute adjustments and ensures that each guest receives the appropriate information.
5. Keep a few copies for yourself
Your wedding invitation is not just an invitation: it is a memento of this unique day. It is important to keep a few copies for yourself, your parents, or your loved ones. These invitations can then be added to your wedding photo album and become precious pieces of your emotional memory.
