Ordering too few invitations means a stressful reorder. Ordering too many wastes money. The secret is a simple formula, and it starts with one rule: count households, not guests.
Step 1: Count households
Go through your guest list and count each address that will receive an invitation. A married couple is one invitation. A family of four is one invitation. Adult children living at home usually get their own.
Most couples find they need roughly half as many invitations as guests.
Step 2: Add extras
Add 10 to 15 extra invitations for:
- Keepsakes for you and your parents
- A copy for your photographer to style in flat-lay photos
- Last-minute additions to the guest list
- Mistakes when addressing envelopes
The formula: households + 10 to 15 extras = invitations to order.
Step 3: Match the enclosures
Order the same number of RSVP cards and details cards as invitations. If you're using a wedding website card, order the same number again.
For envelopes, add another 10 to 20 percent. Envelopes are where most addressing mistakes happen.
Step 4: Save the dates
Order save the dates for everyone you are certain to invite. If you plan a "B list," don't send save the dates to those guests. A save the date is a promise of an invitation.
Step 5: Thank-you cards
Order thank-you cards for every household plus extras for shower gifts, vendors and the wedding party. Many couples order 20 to 30 percent more thank-you cards than invitations.
A quick example
- 150 guests
- 80 households
- 80 + 12 extras = 92 invitations
- 92 RSVP cards and details cards
- About 105 envelopes
- About 110 thank-you cards
Order a sample first
Before placing a large order, order a single invitation to check the paper, colors and wording. It's a small cost that can save a much bigger one. With a full suite like our Black & White Orchids collection, you can order every piece in matching quantities at the same time.
What about day-of stationery?
Day-of pieces depend on your venue rather than your guest list:
- Table numbers: one per table, plus one or two spares.
- Menus: one per guest, or one per table if you'd rather share.
- Place cards or escort cards: one per guest, plus 5 to 10 percent extra for last-minute changes.
- Programs: about one for every two guests, since couples often share.
Wait to order these until your RSVPs are in, about four to six weeks before the wedding. You'll know the final count and avoid paying for cards nobody uses.
Final tip
Keep your guest list spreadsheet up to date. You'll use the same list for addressing, RSVPs, seating and thank-you notes. For timing, see our guide on when to send save the dates and invitations.
