Not sure if you want to go the custom or semi-custom route for your wedding invitations? Here’s the biggest differences and some similarities.
Three Differences
1. Artwork
Custom invitations include unlimited artwork, (to a point, read all about the custom invitation process here). That means we can paint floral motifs to match your florist’s vision for the event, include your venues, dogs, weekend activity icons, disco balls, monograms, crests, roadrunners, or whatever else you want to include.
Semi-custom invitations include previously created artwork plus one new illustration. It’s up to you what that illustration is (many people choose a monogram or venue illustration). You do have the option to add illustrations a la carte. Even though semi-custom uses previously created artwork, we don’t exactly copy another suite - we want to make sure you have a unique look!
A custom save the date including a pet portrait.
2. Time
The custom invitation process can take about 3-4 months to complete depending on revisions, communications, and having the details available. Design takes about 3 months, then printing and assembly takes about 2-3 weeks depending on complexity.
Semi-custom invitation design usually take 1-2 months to complete since we are only creating one new piece of artwork. Printing and assembly still takes about 2-3 weeks depending on complexity. If you prefer to assemble yourself, just let me know!
A semi-custom save the date - we wanted these to mail out quickly.
3. Price:
Custom invitations are more time-intensive, so the cost is higher. For 100 invitation suites that include a double-thick invitation, printed addressing, envelope liners, and a details card, expect to spend around 3,900.
Semi-custom invitations (for the same package as listed above) would cost around 2,200.
Three Similarities:
1. Calligraphy
Both custom and semi-custom suites include custom hand-drawn or hand-painted script paired with coordinating fonts.
2. Assembly:
I take care of all assembly so you don’t have to! I’ll even mail them for you if you like (anticipate 66 cents - $2.17 to mail your invitation suite). If you prefer to assemble, just let me know!
3. Paper:
Both custom and semi-custom have the same high quality paper options. Standard packages include a double-thick oversized invitation and envelope liners.
Custom invitation suite.
Hybrid Options
Some couples choose to have a semi-custom save the date and custom invitation (especially helpful if you are short on time). Some couples choose semi-custom but add on an illustration or two. My goal is to honor your timeline, your aesthetic, and your budget. Click here to inquire.
Semi-custom invitation design.