Custom vs. Semi-Custom Wedding Invitations

The world of wedding stationery is vast and can feel overwhelming to couples beginning their search. There are a variety of wedding invitation types and it’s important to find the one that is the most appropriate for your wedding day. From printing options to the design process, there are many different moving parts that come together for each type of wedding invitation.

Whether you have a tight budget or are looking for something completely bespoke, our Beginner's Guide to Wedding Invitation Types can help you find your perfect match! We’ve categorized all of the wedding invitations into five different categories and price points so you can easily decide what is best for your big day.

Wedding Invitation Types

Digital Wedding Invitations ($)

Digital invitations are a great option for couples who are on a tight budget or are pursuing an eco-friendly wedding. These invitations are designed digitally and then shared with your guests via email. By not paying for paper, printing costs, or stamps, digital wedding invitations are by far the most affordable wedding invitation option. While they may not offer the “wow” moment of getting a physical piece of mail, these are a great option for small or casual wedding events such as engagement parties or bachelorette parties. However, due to the possibility of guests missing the invitation in their inbox, it’s best to follow up with everyone and, therefore, we don’t recommend them for large weddings. 

Wedding Invitation Templates ($$)

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly paper invitation option and love to D.I.Y., templates are a great choice. Websites like Etsy and Zazzle offer pre-made digital templates that you can edit yourself before ordering prints. You’ll need a basic knowledge of standard editing software like Canva, but get the freedom to create exactly what you want. Just remember to go with a reputable printer and high-quality paper for the best final product. With so many template options out there, you’ll be sure to find one that complements your wedding aesthetic, and since the delivery of the digital files is instant, you can create your invitations as quickly as you need. 

Semi-Custom Wedding Invitations ($$)

Semi-Custom wedding invitations are another great, affordable option but come with the guidance of a professional stationer. These are pre-designed invitations that allow for slight personalization, and often offer add-ons such as RSVP cards, envelopes, and envelope liners. Most notably, there are different print styles and paper options, allowing couples to upgrade their invitation experience if they wish.

Because the personalization will be done by the business rather than by the couple, semi-custom invitations are most commonly found in smaller stores such as in-person and online boutiques. Since changes to the design are minimal, turnaround time tends to be quick, and prices vary based on the design and quality of materials. 

At Lily & Roe Co. we offer a large selection of Semi-Custom wedding invitations, to match any style or theme. We also offer gold foil, letterpress, wax seals, and patterned envelope liners.

Shop Our Semi Custom Wedding Invitations

Custom Wedding Invitations ($$$)

For couples who want a fully custom wedding suite, it’s standard to work directly with a stationer. They will work with you through private consultation sessions to design your dream wedding invitation from scratch and can offer specialized options such as unique printing types and embellishments. This allows couples to work one-on-one with a local vendor, and the experience as a whole is very hands-on with personalized service and a high-quality product.

Since this process is very in-depth, it can take a long time from your initial consultation to having your invitations in hand, so make sure that you allow for that in your planning timeline. As can be expected, custom invitations tend to be a bit more expensive due to the time and effort that goes into their creation. 

Bespoke Wedding Invitations ($$$$)

In the ultra-luxury market, couples can work with specialized stationers to create bespoke wedding invitations. These are unique, out-of-the-box creations that will really wow your guests. From incorporating live butterflies to 3D models of your wedding venue, these are not your average wedding invitation. Stationers specializing in bespoke invitations take a select few clients each season and spend many hours brainstorming, designing, and sourcing the best materials. While this service is incredibly personalized with the highest-quality products, there is a long turnaround time and high ticket price to match. 

Semi Custom Wedding Invitations by Lily & Roe Co.