What Is My Budget?
Before you fall in love with intricate invitations or luxe signage, it’s crucial to figure out your budget. Wedding stationery and day-of signage can add up faster than expected, especially when you factor in guest count. Decide early whether you want to keep things simple or go all out with custom features and added flair.
Pro Tip:
Always keep your guest list in mind! The more guests you invite, the more prints, envelopes, and embellishments you will need. Stationery costs tend to rise with each additional piece and design element.
Which Items Do I Actually Need?
With so many stationery and signage options available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. A helpful tip is to narrow down the essentials first and go from there. Do you want printed or digital items? Maybe your guests can RSVP on your wedding website, cutting down on the need for RSVP cards. Are you hosting multiple events like a bridal shower or rehearsal dinner? If not, you can focus on your main event’s items.
Must-Haves:
Invitations and envelopes are the core essentials. But beyond that, the possibilities are endless. You can have everything from dinner menus to personalized wedding programs or welcome signs. Your stationery and signage should reflect what’s most important to you and your celebration.

What Is My Timeline?
The timeline is crucial when planning and choosing wedding stationery and signage. If you’re working with a tight schedule, simpler stationery, already made templates, or digital communication may be the best way to go. On the other hand, custom designs take time to perfect.
Custom designs typically take a few months to create. So give yourself a few months ahead of your wedding to ensure everything is ready and arrives on time. Read more about stationery timelines in my blog: Wedding Stationery & Signage Timelines
Custom, Semi-Custom, or DIY?
When it comes to choosing wedding stationery and signage, you have three options: custom, semi-custom, or DIY. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on your budget, timeline, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
Custom Designs
The most expensive option but also the most personalized. If you want every piece of your wedding stationery and signage to tell your love story and match your wedding aesthetic, custom design is worth it. It’s perfect for couples who value attention to detail and want a cohesive look across all signage and stationery.
- Stand Out and Be Unique: If you’re frustrated by the lack of originality in typical weddings and fear that your special day will blend in with others, custom designs are the way to go. Opting for custom-made invitations, signage, and other elements ensures that every detail is tailored to your unique vision. This approach not only helps your wedding stand out but also leaves a lasting impression on your guests, reflecting your personal style and the special nature of your celebration.
- Ease and Professionalism: Balancing a demanding lifestyle with wedding planning can be overwhelming. Custom designs offer a solution by allowing you to delegate the details to professionals who understand your vision and are experts at their craft. By spending time gathering inspiration and working with a designer, you can trust that your vision will be brought to life without the need for constant oversight. This way, you can prioritize quality and convenience, focusing on enjoying the planning process while experts handle the execution.
- Meaningful and Personalized Experience: If you find yourself disengaged by purchases or occasions that lack a meaningful experience, custom designs can provide the personalized touch you’re looking for. Working with a custom wedding stationery designer offers a meticulous and personalized design process, allowing you to stay involved and excited about each component. This approach ensures that every piece of your wedding stationery is crafted with care and attention to detail, creating a value-driven experience that resonates with you and your guests.

Semi-Custom Designs
Semi-custom designs offer a more affordable route where you can choose from a selection of pre-made templates. While it limits personalization to what’s available in the template, it’s still a beautiful option for couples who want a polished look without breaking the bank.
Keep in mind that semi-custom designs likely don’t offer matching stationery and signage for every part of your day and may not perfectly align with your wedding aesthetic.
DIY
The most budget-friendly option, DIY stationery and signage is great for couples who want to save money, get crafty, or prioritize another aspect of their wedding. Unfortunately, DIY also comes with the added stress and time to create, print, and assemble your stationery and signage. It involves researching best practices, mailing requirements, and more. In the end, it typically result in a less professional and lower-quality finish.
Conclusion
Ultimately, your wedding stationery and signage is a reflection of you as a couple and the celebration you want to share with your guests. Take time to weigh these considerations before choosing wedding stationery and signage.
If you’re ready to transform your wedding from ordinary to extraordinary, get in touch about custom designs, offering a blend of uniqueness, convenience, and personal touch.