How Many Wedding Invitations Should You Order?

It’s a question every couple asks... and one that’s surprisingly easy to misjudge. When ordering your wedding invitations, the number of guests doesn’t equal the number of invites you’ll need. Here’s how to work it out and avoid any last-minute reprints.

1. Count Households, Not Individuals

If you’re inviting couples or families, they’ll only need one invitation between them. So rather than ordering based on your total guest list, count how many individual households you're sending to. A guest list of 100 people might only require 60–70 invitations.

2. Always Order Extra Copies

Even with a careful list, it's wise to order a few spare invitations. These can cover:

  • Last-minute additions
  • Mistakes in addressing
  • Keepsakes for your wedding album

A good rule of thumb is to order at least 10% more than you think you need. For example, if you need 70 invitations, consider ordering 75–80 just in case.

3. Don’t Forget Your Suppliers

If your photographer is capturing your stationery, or your venue needs a copy for the display table, it’s worth including a few extra in your order. You might also want one for a flat lay photo on the day.

4. Consider RSVP Cards and Envelopes

If you’re using printed RSVP cards or separate information inserts, make sure you account for those as well... they should match the total number of invitations going out.

Ordering the right number of invitations helps avoid unnecessary costs and stress. A little extra planning upfront means peace of mind later... and a beautifully organised invitation process from start to finish.

How Many Wedding Invitations Should You Order?
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Matching Your Invitations to Your Wedding Style

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Once you’ve chosen your wording, selecting an invitation design that complements your tone helps create a cohesive first impression for your guests.

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Wedding Invitation FAQs

  • How many wedding invitations should we order?

    You only need one invitation per household or couple, rather than one per guest. It’s a good idea to order a few extra copies to allow for last minute additions or keepsakes.

  • What is the difference between day and evening wedding invitations?

    Day invitations are sent to guests attending the ceremony and wedding breakfast, while evening invitations are for guests invited to join you later for the reception. The wording and timings on each invitation should clearly reflect this.

  • When should wedding invitations be sent in the UK?

    Wedding invitations are typically sent 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding date. Evening invitations can often be sent slightly later, around 6 to 8 weeks before the day.

  • Can wedding invitations be personalised?

    Yes, most wedding invitations can be personalised with your names, wording, dates and venue details. Many couples also choose to personalise design elements such as colours, fonts or layouts to suit their wedding style.

  • What information should be included on a wedding invitation?

    A wedding invitation should include the names of the couple, the date and time, the venue details and RSVP information. Additional details such as dress code or accommodation are often included on an insert card or wedding website.

  • Do we need RSVP cards with our wedding invitations?

    RSVP cards are optional, but they are helpful for managing guest numbers. Some couples choose traditional RSVP cards, while others prefer online RSVPs through a wedding website.

  • Should wedding invitations match the rest of the stationery?

    Many couples choose to coordinate their invitations with the rest of their wedding stationery, including save the dates, order of service booklets and thank you cards, to create a consistent look throughout the day.

  • What style of wedding invitation should we choose?

    The style of your invitation should reflect the overall feel of your wedding. Classic designs suit formal celebrations, while modern or illustrated invitations work well for relaxed, contemporary or destination weddings.

Designed Wedding Invitations, Made Personal

At TavernCreative, we design wedding invitations that balance beautiful design with thoughtful wording. Every invitation is carefully considered to ensure it not only looks beautiful but also communicates the details of your day clearly and confidently. Many couples choose to personalise their wedding invitations to reflect their style, their story and the overall tone of their celebration, creating a first impression that feels both meaningful and memorable.

Written by TavernCreative – UK Wedding Stationery Designers