Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Joy Editors
Looking to save money on save the dates without losing style? You’re not alone. The average couple spends $530 on wedding stationery, and $240 goes just to invitation suites.
I was shocked after I found that there was a starting price of $950 for just 100 invitations. But getting affordable wedding invitations doesn’t mean you need to settle for basic designs. Budget-friendly alternatives like all-in-one wedding invitations cost just $1.49 each.
We at Joy believe beautiful save the dates should be affordable. I’ve put together 15 smart strategies that will help you announce your special day for under $100. These tips combine digital options and smart printing choices to keep your wedding budget intact and impress your guests.
Set a Realistic Save the Date Budget
Image Source: Etsy
The best way to start your wedding invitation shopping is to set a clear budget for your save the dates. Many couples don’t realize how much these can cost at first, but good planning helps avoid surprise expenses.
Save the Date budgeting tips
Send one save the date per household instead of giving one to each guest. This smart approach will cut down your printing costs and postage expenses substantially. To name just one example, see a family of four living together – they only need one announcement.
Here are some great ways to save money:
- Choose postcards over magnets: Postcards will cost about 60¢ each while magnets run around 73¢ when you order 100 pieces. Postcards also qualify for lower postage rates—36¢ compared to 55¢ for standard mail.
- Stay away from square designs: The postal service adds about 20¢ extra for square-shaped items.
- Order in bulk: You’ll find better prices when ordering larger quantities from many companies.
- Keep it simple: Fancy papers, die-cut shapes, and heavy embellishments will drive up your costs.
How to use budget tools
A dedicated spreadsheet for your save the dates will help you track every expense. Joy’s team suggests listing everything you might spend money on – printing, postage, design fees, and any extras.
A joint checking account just for wedding expenses is a great way to monitor your spending. This makes it easy to see where your money goes and helps you stick to your budget.
Common cost ranges for Save the Dates
Save the date costs can vary based on several factors:
- Average spend: Couples typically spend between $100-$153 total
- Postcard pricing: You’ll pay about 60¢ per piece when ordering 100
- Standard cards: These run about 69¢ each for 100 cards
- Magnets: Expect to pay around 73¢ each for 100 magnets
- Designer options: Professional designer save the dates start at $1,000, with premium options going up to $3,000
Budget-friendly couples can find some great deals—Walmart sells 200 save the dates for just $30, and Vistaprint often has sales offering 50 postcards for $6-$10.
Choose Digital Save the Dates
Image Source: Joy Wedding
Couples can save money on wedding announcements by going paperless. Digital save the dates are now a popular choice, with more than 70% of couples using online invitations for their weddings.
Benefits of digital Save the Dates
Digital invitations do more than just save money. These eco-friendly options help conserve resources and cut down on paper waste. Your guests receive the announcements right away in their inboxes instead of waiting weeks for traditional mail.
The tracking features let you see who opened your announcement. One couple got an amazing 92% response rate with their digital platform. You’ll know exactly when to reach out to guests who haven’t seen your announcement.
Best platforms for digital cards
Here are some great platforms that offer digital save the dates at different prices:
- Joy: Our platform gives you free wedding planning tools that work naturally with digital save the dates. Your guest list syncs right up with your wedding website.
- Paperless Post: You can choose from hundreds of designs and customize them while tracking responses. Some designs come free while others need “coins” to purchase.
- Greenvelope: These elegant digital options come with great tracking features. Their top annual package costs $225, which beats traditional invitations that can run between $5,000-$8,000.
- Evite: The simple creation tools let you share via email, text, or link, and you can track RSVPs live.
Digital vs. printed cost comparison
The numbers tell the story clearly. Traditional save the dates cost $100-$150 for about 150 pieces. Digital options can be free or cost much less. Most electronic save the dates range from free to around $100 based on your chosen platform and features.
Digital save the dates also cut out all postage costs, which helps couples with guests in other countries. You won’t need to worry about reprinting costs if any details change after ordering.
Use All-in-One Save the Date Cards
Image Source: Minted
Want a clever mix of digital and traditional save the dates? All-in-one cards might be just what you’re looking for. Many couples we’ve worked with at Joy choose this option to save money while still sending physical announcements.
What are all-in-one cards
All-in-one save the date cards are cleverly designed single folded pieces that give you everything you need. These “seal and send” cards come with three panels that fold into one mail-ready piece. They have the main announcement and a perforated tear-off RSVP postcard that guests can easily remove and send back.
These cards don’t need envelopes like traditional save the dates. You just fold them along the marked lines, secure them with the clear stickers they come with, and they’re ready to mail.
Why they save money
You’ll save money with all-in-one cards in several ways:
- Reduced materials cost: You’ll get both the announcement and RSVP card for about the same price as one traditional invitation.
- Lower postage expenses: The RSVP section becomes a postcard after detaching, which costs less to mail than regular letters.
- No envelope costs: Getting rid of envelopes saves you money, especially with big guest lists.
- Standard postage compatible: Most designs fit within regular letter size and weight limits, needing just one normal stamp.
- Eco-friendly design: Using a single sheet reduces paper waste, making them good for your wallet and the environment.
Where to find them
You can get all-in-one save the date cards from several trusted vendors:
Minted has high-quality options with designs from independent artists. Their cards measure 5.76″ x 12.03″ flat and 5.75″ x 4.75″ folded.
Basic Invite offers budget-friendly all-in-one options that work with standard postal requirements. Their designs come with built-in, perforated RSVP postcards.
So if you want the most affordable way to create wedding invitations without cutting corners on quality, all-in-one cards are an elegant option that makes things easier for you and your guests.
Skip the Envelopes
Image Source: Canva
Looking to cut down on your save the date costs? Skip the envelopes. This simple switch to envelope-free options gives you style and savings without losing quality.
Envelope-free options
You’ll find several formats that skip unnecessary materials:
- Postcards: Classic single-sided or double-sided cards that mail directly
- Folded self-mailers: Cards that fold and seal without separate envelopes
- Digital announcements: Electronic options that skip physical mailing completely
More couples choose these efficient options at Joy. The savings are great, but the convenience is even better. Self-mailers make assembly quick and easy. No stuffing envelopes or sealing them shut means more time to focus on other wedding details.
Postcard Save the Dates
Postcards stand out as the most popular physical option without envelopes. Major vendors offer them at amazing prices:
The Knot’s wedding save the date postcards start at $0.67 each for orders of 100. They run promotional discounts often and have hundreds of designs from minimal floral to gilded monogram styles.
Minted matches these competitive rates and frequently offers 25% off save the date postcards.
Vistaprint takes it further with exceptional deals. Some couples found prices as low as $6 for 50 postcards during special promotions.
Postage savings
Postcard postage rates make a compelling case. Standard postcards cost about $0.36 to mail compared to $0.55 for regular letters. This small difference adds up with bigger guest lists.
Let’s look at the math. Mailing 100 standard save the dates with envelopes costs $55 in postage. The same number of postcards costs just $36—that’s $19 saved on postage alone, not counting envelope costs.
Postcard save the dates create double savings through lower printing costs and reduced postage rates. This simple switch helps keep your wedding stationery budget under control.
Opt for Standard Sizes
Image Source: The Hello Bureau
Smart couples choose standard-sized save the dates to cut costs while keeping their style intact. Our experience at Joy shows that picking non-standard card sizes often leads to unexpected expenses.
Standard Save the Date dimensions
A 5″ x 7″ card stands as the most popular standard size for save the date cards. This classic size works great in both portrait and vertical layouts and gives you enough room for your details and photos. Other common standard sizes include:
- 4.25″ x 6″ (postcard/petite size)
- 6″ x 8″ (grand size)
- A6 (105 x 148 mm or approximately 4″ x 6″)
These sizes match standard envelopes and postal rules, which makes them practical and budget-friendly.
Why size affects cost
Your card’s size hits your wallet in several ways. Unusual sizes need special paper cutting that adds to your costs. You’ll also need custom envelopes that cost way more than regular ones.
The postal service charges about 20¢ extra for square-shaped cards and other non-standard sizes. Any envelope bigger than 6.125″ high x 11.5″ long or 0.25″ thick needs extra postage. These small fees add up fast when you multiply them by your guest count.
Avoiding custom size fees
Here’s how to save money on your save the dates:
- Pick the classic 5″ x 7″ size that fits standard A7 envelopes (5.25″ x 7.25″) perfectly
- Try 4″ x 6″ postcards as your cheapest option while keeping things professional
- Skip square formats or oversized designs that cost extra to mail
- Standard sizes give you better printing rates from almost every vendor
Using the same dimensions for both save the dates and wedding invitations creates a matching look and keeps your stationery costs down.
Avoid Heavy Paper Stocks
Image Source: The Knot
Paper weight is a vital factor in saving money on save the dates. Our team at Joy has noticed that couples often don’t realize this until they’re hit with unexpected postage costs.
Paper weight and postage
The postal service bases its charges on weight, and heavier cards need more postage. Your mailing costs will jump up if your save the date weighs more than 1 ounce. Here are the standard postage rates:
- First ounce: $0.73 (1 Forever Stamp)
- Each additional ounce: $0.28
- Postcard rate: $0.56
Each card style comes with its own weight. To name just one example, see how save the date magnets usually weigh about 1 ounce, while signature lightweight cards weigh just 0.25 ounces. Double-thick cards tip the scales at 0.5 ounces, and triple-thick options reach a full ounce.
Best lightweight options
1-ply cotton cardstock ranks among the lightest paper weights you can find. This material gives you an elegant look without making your envelopes too heavy.
Standard signature or signature light cards weigh a mere 0.25 ounces. These lightweight options are perfect for budget-minded couples because they feel premium yet stay nowhere near the 1-ounce mark that triggers extra postage.
Budget-friendly paper types
Here’s how to create beautiful wedding invitations without breaking the bank:
Digital printing on lightweight stock costs less than foil or letterpress options. You’ll also keep the overall weight down by using fewer enclosure cards.
80 or 90 lb cover stock works great with most home printers if you’re printing at home. This weight gives you enough sturdiness without excess bulk.
Another option is to print on lighter 80 lb text or 32 lb writing paper and mount it onto pre-cut cardstock. This technique creates a luxurious look without the actual weight.
Take a completed save the date to your local post office before sending out your entire batch. This step helps verify the correct postage amount.
Use Semi-Custom Templates
Image Source: Tuesday Grace Designs
Semi-custom templates strike a perfect balance between fully custom designs and DIY options. They’re a smart way to save money on save-the-dates.
What is semi-custom
Semi-custom save-the-dates use pre-designed templates that you can customize while keeping their basic design and layout. You won’t need extensive design work like custom designs require, which cuts down on upfront costs. Your final cost mostly depends on your printing choices, any extra decorative touches, assembly, and shipping.
Our experience at Joy shows that couples love how these designs look professional without the hefty price tag. The templates make sure everything looks balanced and print-ready – a huge help if you’re not familiar with design software.
Where to find templates
You’ll find great semi-custom save-the-date templates on these trusted platforms:
- Canva: Thousands of free templates you can customize, ranging from simple layouts to photo-rich designs that showcase your engagement pictures
- MagnetStreet: A broad selection of save-the-date postcards, magnets, and cards with options to customize colors and fonts
- Paperless Post: Hundreds of unique designs that cover every wedding theme (classic, modern, bohemian, rustic)
- Joy: Our platform’s templates work naturally with your wedding website
These platforms let you see how your design will look before you buy it.
Customization tips
Here’s how to make your semi-custom save-the-dates really shine:
Start by adding your personal touch beyond the basics of names and dates. Play with colors that match your wedding theme. Try different font combinations that fit your style – most platforms give you plenty of typography choices.
You might want to add special touches like cards with scalloped edges or shimmering foil accents through services like MagnetStreet.
Photos make save-the-dates feel more personal. Pick high-quality images that work well with your design style.
The paper you choose matters just as much as the design. Template designs often come with options for different paper weights and finishes that can really elevate the final product.
Print in Bulk with Other Stationery

Image Source: Truly Engaging
You can save a lot by bundling your save the date order with other wedding stationery items through bulk pricing discounts. Our experience at Joy shows that couples save hundreds of dollars when they bundle strategically instead of placing separate orders.
Combining orders for discounts
Most printing companies give great price breaks at certain quantities—ordering more items will lower your per-unit cost. This works really well when you combine save the dates with other wedding stationery needs.
Smart bundling ideas you can try:
- Order save the dates with thank you cards
- Get save the dates and engagement party invitations together
- Buy extra cards for keepsakes or last-minute guest additions
Adding just a few more items can push you into a lower price bracket and make your entire order cheaper. Try different quantities in your shopping cart to find the best price breaks.
Vendors that offer bundles
Many trusted companies give package deals when you order multiple stationery items:
Truly Engaging rewards customers with discounts when they combine different stationery products. Their bundle pricing works great for customers who need multiple items.
StationeryHQ offers economical solutions for bulk wedding invitation printing. They cater to customers who need large quantities, and their per-unit costs drop as order size grows.
Timing your print run
The right timing will help you save more money. Prices often drop during off-peak wedding seasons. Vendor newsletters are a great way to get alerts about exclusive sales and discounts.
Social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok can also help you save—vendors often announce special promotions, exclusive discounts, or giveaways through these channels.
Planning ahead might seem too early, but it lets you tap into the full potential of these bundled savings. This approach helps you create a complete, money-saving stationery plan instead of buying pieces one at a time.
Order Early to Avoid Rush Fees
Image Source: The Knot
Saving money on wedding stationery depends on perfect timing. Our experience at Joy shows that couples who don’t wait to order their save the dates dodge one of the biggest budget-busters: rush fees.
Why early ordering matters
Late ordering comes with a hefty price tag. Getting your save the dates early gives you time to review, edit, and adjust designs without pressure. This approach lets you think over decisions carefully instead of making rushed choices that lead to mistakes or pricey upgrades.
Most printing companies add premium charges for rushed production. These extra fees can double your printing costs. Your affordable announcement could turn into an unexpected budget drain.
Early ordering also creates a ripple of savings. You can coordinate with other wedding elements and create a unified look across all your wedding correspondence.
How to plan ahead
Your calendar should include these key dates:
- 8-12 months before wedding: Best time to order save the dates
- 6-8 months before wedding: Send out save the dates (aim for 8 months for destination weddings)
- Under 4 months: Save-the-dates no longer make sense
Destination weddings need earlier planning. Send announcements 9-12 months ahead so guests can arrange their travel plans.
Add at least 5 extra save the dates to your guest count. This covers last-minute additions and keepsakes.
Avoiding last-minute costs
Rush printing typically adds 25-50% to standard production costs. Regular printing takes 4-8 weeks, based on your design’s complexity and customization.
Wedding experts suggest setting aside 5-10% of your total budget for surprise expenses. This buffer helps when unexpected costs pop up.
Start your save-the-date process right after booking your venue and date. Production timelines catch many couples off guard. Standard printing needs a couple of months even without custom elements.
Check every detail before placing your order. Fixing errors through reprinting gets pricey and takes time. You might end up paying rush fees just to stay on schedule.
Proofread Before Printing

Image Source: Truly Engaging
Your save the dates need careful proofreading to avoid pricey reprints and embarrassing mistakes. Many couples we’ve worked with at Joy faced extra costs because they rushed this crucial step. A few minutes spent checking your design could save you hundreds of dollars.
Common proofreading mistakes
Most couples miss these errors, even when they pay attention to detail:
- Name misspellings: Double-check all names, especially those with unique spellings or cultural variations
- Incorrect dates or times: Make sure the day of the week matches your actual wedding date
- Address errors: Venue names and locations need perfect accuracy
- Missing information: Don’t forget your wedding website URL or RSVP details
- Inconsistent formatting: Watch for mismatched fonts, sizes, or wrong word capitalization
These oversights can ruin your guests’ first impression and create confusion. A wrong venue or date might send guests to the incorrect location or time.
Tips for error-free designs
Here’s how to make your save the dates perfect:
Print a physical copy first. Reading text on paper helps you spot errors better than screen reviews.
Read your text aloud. This makes you focus on each word instead of skimming.
Ask someone else to check your design. Your brain auto-corrects mistakes you’ve seen many times—new eyes will catch errors you might miss.
Step away before giving final approval. A fresh look often shows problems you didn’t notice before.
Why reprints get pricey
Reprints hurt your wallet in several ways:
The entire production process needs repeating—from printing plates to press time and finishing. Premium methods like letterpress or foil stamping need new plates, which drives costs up fast.
Rush fees apply when fixing urgent errors, which adds 25-50% to your printing costs.
The worst part? Reprints throw off your timeline. Late announcements affect your guests’ plans and travel arrangements.
Take Advantage of Online Sales
Image Source: VistaPrint
Smart shopping during sales and promotions is one of the best ways to find budget-friendly save the dates. Major stationery companies often slash their prices, which makes expensive options much more affordable.
When to shop for deals
A good plan helps you take advantage of predictable sales cycles. Stationery companies run promotions throughout the year. Joy’s team suggests you sign up for email newsletters from major wedding stationery vendors to get alerts about upcoming sales. These emails often give you exclusive discount codes you won’t find on their websites.
Retailers give special savings to newly engaged couples. The secret lies in patience—don’t buy at full price since sales pop up regularly throughout the year.
Best times of year for discounts
Holiday weekends bring the deepest discounts on wedding stationery. Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day are the times you’ll find the most important savings opportunities.
Here are some specific promotional events to watch:
- The Knot offers 25% off sitewide sales periodically, with recent promotions running through June 25, 2025, using code LOVE25
- Zola provides 50% off save the dates with code SAVE50 on orders over $10 (valid through August 2026)
- Amazon Prime Day (usually in July) prompts competing sales from Target and Walmart
- Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale each July has wedding-related items
Shopping during off-season can lead to amazing bargains. Companies offer their biggest discounts right after major wedding planning seasons end.
How to track promo codes
A dedicated spreadsheet or document helps you organize available promotions. While many coupon sites exist, vendor-direct codes are the most reliable.
Calendar reminders for predicted sale periods based on past patterns work well. Following stationery companies on social media sometimes gives you early access to flash sales or exclusive discounts.
Note that promo codes usually don’t work with other offers, so pick the discount that saves you the most money before buying.
Use Your Wedding Website for Details

Image Source: Persnickety Prints
A wedding website helps you cut down on save-the-date costs. Our experience at Joy shows that couples save money on stationery when they guide their guests to their websites for details.
What to include on the card
Your save-the-date cards should stay simple with just the basics:
- Names of the couple
- Wedding date
- City and state of the event (no need for exact venue address)
- Website URL displayed clearly, preferably near the bottom of the card
Let your wedding website handle the rest of the details. Don’t pack your announcements with information about accommodations, attire requirements, or travel tips. This simple approach saves money and creates an elegant design.
Directing guests online
Your guests should find your website easily. A QR code that links straight to your wedding website adds a modern touch. Guests can scan it with their smartphones and see all your wedding details instantly.
The website URL needs a prominent spot on your save-the-dates. Many couples put it on the back when using double-sided cards. You might want to add a small note for older family members or tech-shy relatives about finding more information online.
Reducing enclosure needs
Wedding websites make expensive enclosure cards unnecessary. Your website can display information that used to need separate cards:
- Hotel accommodation details and room blocks
- Transportation options and airport information
- Wedding weekend itineraries for destination weddings
- Registry information (which should never appear on save-the-dates directly)
Traditional stationery suites with multiple pieces get pricey. A complete website cuts down both paper and printing costs. You’ll save on materials and avoid the extra postage that multiple enclosures need.
Your website lets you update details live, unlike printed materials. This flexibility helps when venue details change or you add more events to your wedding weekend.
Ask Guests to RSVP Online

Image Source: Hitched
Online RSVPs are a great way to save money for budget-conscious couples. Your wedding website can help you eliminate physical response cards completely. More and more couples now prefer paperless confirmations as their go-to choice.
Digital RSVP benefits
Digital RSVPs do more than just cut costs. They sync with your guest list automatically and prevent unwanted plus-ones by controlling who can respond. You won’t have to worry about responses getting lost in the mail – a common headache with traditional paper cards.
The best part? Online systems give you complete tracking capabilities. At Joy, couples love seeing who has received, opened, and responded to their invitations at a glance. Most platforms can send automatic reminders to guests who haven’t replied. This feature comes in handy when dealing with those last-minute stragglers.
How to set it up
Getting your online RSVPs ready is easier than you might think:
- Pick a platform like Joy, The Knot, or Zola that has built-in RSVP features
- Add your events (including rehearsal dinners or brunches so guests can RSVP to multiple events at once)
- Customize your RSVP form with extra questions like meal choices or song requests
- Turn on online RSVPs in your website settings
Let your guests know what to do by adding a small info card with your save the dates that says: “RSVP Online! Please visit our wedding website: [URL]” and include your response deadline.
Cost savings from fewer inserts
The money you’ll save is significant. You can save thousands of dollars in printing costs by skipping RSVP cards and return envelopes. Traditional response cards need both printing and return postage for each guest.
Online RSVPs make collecting information quick and simple. Your digital dashboard adds up yes and no responses automatically. You can gather meal choices and dietary needs without extra cards, which helps your budget and makes planning easier.
Don’t worry about tech-shy relatives – you can always reach out personally to help those few guests who need extra guidance.
Avoid DIY Printing Pitfalls
Image Source: Brides
DIY printing looks like a money-saving option for save the dates at first glance. Many couples learn this the hard way after they start their DIY project. Our team at Joy has seen this happen to so many couples.
Why DIY can cost more
The idea of saving on designer fees sounds great. The reality is that DIY save the dates need a big investment up front. Professional wedding stationery usually costs $100-$150 for about 150 pieces. DIY materials add up fast. A graphic design expert puts professional wedding invitations at $5,000-$8,000 for 100 sets. This might make DIY look like a bargain, but there are significant hidden costs to think about.
You’ll need to buy special materials even if you skip the designer fees. The original shopping list includes design software, quality paper, printing services, calligraphy tools, envelopes, seals, and decorative elements. These items usually come in bulk packages. You might end up with extra supplies you’ll never use.
Hidden costs of home printing
The expenses don’t stop at materials. Here are some costs people often miss:
- Printer capabilities: Home printers usually can’t handle thick cardstock and specialty finishes well
- Quality issues: Uneven results mean you’ll need to print things again
- Time investment: The whole process of designing, printing, and putting invitations together takes forever
Your first try might have mistakes. This means expensive reprints and extra stress. Basic home printers just can’t match the look of professional save the dates.
When to go pro
Professional printing makes sense if:
- You want every piece to look perfect
- Your design needs special printing methods
- You plan to use thick cardstock (above 80-90 lb weight)
- You value your time (pros can do everything much faster)
A casual wedding might work with DIY printing. The same goes if you already own good printing equipment. Otherwise, the cheapest way to make wedding invitations is to skip DIY and look for budget-friendly professional options.
Prioritize What Matters Most
Image Source: The Knot
Your save the date choices reflect what matters most to you as a couple. The next vital step after picking your wedding date involves deciding which stationery elements deserve your money and which don’t.
Choosing your must-haves
The best way to set save the date priorities is to identify your non-negotiables first. Our experience at Joy shows that couples make smarter spending decisions by starting with their must-haves.
These elements matter most:
- Critical information: Your names, wedding date, and location city
- Website URL: Prominently displayed to access additional details
- Visual appeal: One design element that shows your style (photo, color scheme, or unique typography)
Anything beyond these simple elements becomes optional. Photos are all you’ll keep from your wedding (besides your partner). Adding a quality engagement photo to your announcements makes sense if photography matters to you.
Where to splurge vs. save
Most guests barely remember the specific details of wedding invitations they receive. Wedding experts point this out often. You can save money on stationery without affecting your overall wedding experience, unless you’re passionate about paper goods.
Simple yet elegant designs work better than expensive features like letterpress or gold foil. Your wedding venue will appear in all your photos, making it a better investment than elaborate save the dates.
Balancing design and budget
Smart compromises help you match your style vision with financial reality. Budget limits create opportunities to focus on what truly matters rather than acting as restrictions.
Your invitations represent just one part of your wedding trip. Music and photography create memories that last much longer than paper announcements tucked away in drawers.
Beautiful announcements don’t need to break the bank. Think of save the dates as practical tools with personality rather than elaborate design statements. This approach lets you create stunning announcements without financial stress.
Comparison Table
Save Money Method | Cost-Saving Potential | Main Benefits | What it all means | The core team Tips | Recommended Timeline |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Set a Realistic Budget | $100-$153 total savings | Stops unexpected expenses | Original planning needed | Send one per household; use postcards over magnets | Start right after engagement |
Choose Digital Save the Dates | Up to 100% on printing/postage | Quick delivery; tracking options | Some guests prefer physical cards | Use platforms like Joy at no cost | N/A |
Use All-in-One Cards | Saves on envelopes & postage | Has announcement and RSVP in one piece | Limited design choices | Choose standard postal sizes | Order 6-8 months before wedding |
Skip the Envelopes | $0.19 per piece on postage | Simple assembly process | Less formal look | Use postcards or self-mailers | N/A |
Opt for Standard Sizes | $0.20+ per piece | Fits standard envelopes; no special cutting | Limited size choices | Stick to 5″x7″ or 4″x6″ sizes | N/A |
Avoid Heavy Paper Stocks | $0.28+ per piece on postage | Lower shipping costs | May not feel premium | Use 1-ply cotton cardstock | N/A |
Use Semi-Custom Templates | 25-50% vs custom designs | Professional look at lower cost | Not as unique as custom designs | Change colors and fonts | N/A |
Print in Bulk | Varies by quantity | Lower per-unit cost | Needs upfront planning | Mix with other stationery items | Order during off-peak seasons |
Order Early | 25-50% on rush fees | Time for edits | Needs advance planning | Order 8-12 months before wedding | 8-12 months before wedding |
Proofread Before Printing | Cost of reprints | Stops expensive mistakes | Takes more time | Get several people to review | Before final approval |
Take Advantage of Sales | Up to 50% off retail | Same quality at lower cost | Needs flexible timing | Sign up for vendor updates | Shop during major holidays |
Use Wedding Website | Cost of enclosure cards | Quick updates; detailed info | Some guests need tech help | Use Joy’s integrated website tools | Create before sending save dates |
Ask Guests to RSVP Online | Cost of RSVP cards & postage | Auto tracking; easy updates | Tech-challenged guests | Use platforms like Joy to track | Set up before sending save dates |
Avoid DIY Printing | $100-$150 vs. potential waste | Professional quality | Quick savings look tempting | Go with professional printing | N/A |
Prioritize What Matters | Varies by choices | Smart spending on essentials | Needs compromise | Focus on must-have details | Early planning stage |
Conclusion
You don’t need to break the bank to create stylish, quality save-the-dates. We’ve put together 15 smart ways to keep your costs under $100 while designing beautiful announcements that match your special day.
Digital save-the-dates are a great way to get maximum savings. They completely eliminate printing and postage costs. Postcards can also help you save money with less material and cheaper mailing rates. All-in-one cards pack multiple elements into a single piece to cut costs without losing elegance.
The right timing can save you money. You’ll avoid rush fees by ordering early, and sale periods can cut prices in half. Smart choices about paper weight, size, and printing methods will help you save even more.
Your guests won’t remember the tiny details of your save-the-dates. They just need the basics—your names, wedding date, location, and website URL. Everything else becomes optional and gives you chances to reduce costs.
Our team at Joy has watched many couples use these strategies to create beautiful save-the-dates that their guests absolutely loved. Our free wedding websites combine smoothly with digital save-the-dates and online RSVPs, which makes saving money even easier.
The money you save on paper products can go toward things that create lasting memories—like photography, music, food, or your honeymoon. Your wedding should reflect what matters to you as a couple, not what the wedding industry says you should spend.
Which money-saving tip will you try first? Let us know about your experiences or questions in the comments below!