Wedding Invitation FAQs | Sarah Drake Designs
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FAQ

We specialize in affordable, semi-custom wedding invitations designed by an independent artist and professionally printed on premium paper.

Ordering & Timeline

When should I order my wedding invitations?

For our ready-made, semi-custom wedding invitations, we recommend ordering 3-4 months before your wedding date. This allows ample time for proofing, printing, and mailing. Rush orders may be available depending on the design and printing method — please contact us to discuss your timeline.

When should I send my wedding invitations?

Wedding invitations are typically mailed 6-8 weeks before the wedding. For destination weddings, we suggest mailing invitations 10-12 weeks in advance to give guests time to plan travel and accommodations.

When should I send my save the dates?

Save the Dates are typically mailed 6-9 months before the wedding. For destination weddings, we suggest mailing save the dates 9 months to one year in advance to give guests time to plan travel and accommodations. Please see this guide for more details.

How long does it take to get wedding invitations?

From ordering to delivery, most wedding invitations take 3-6 weeks. This includes proofing, professional printing, and shipping. Production time may vary based on printing method and quantity.

Customization & Design

What is the ordering process? What can I expect?

  1. Enter your wording, quantity, color, and paper choices when placing your order. You may also select matching inserts at this time.
  2. Sarah will send a PDF proof within 2 business days.
  3. Review your proof and request any changes. Your designer is available to answer questions and make adjustments during this phase.
  4. Once approved, your digital signature authorizes us to send the order to print.
  5. Finished invitations ship within 2-4 weeks, depending on the printing process, and arrive unassembled via FedEx. A tracking number will be provided.

What are semi-custom wedding invitations?

Semi-custom wedding invitations are professionally designed templates that can be personalized with your wording, colors, and details. They offer a custom look and high-end quality without the cost or extended timeline of fully custom design.

Can I customize the wording on my wedding invitations?

Yes. All designs can be personalized with your wedding details, including names, dates, locations, and wording style.

I'm not a designer — can you help design my invitations?

Absolutely. Every order is reviewed by Sarah. If you prefer, simply enter your wording in the comments box and Sarah will format and adjust everything for you during the proofing process.

How do I word my wedding invitations?

We've created a helpful PDF guide covering everything from traditional wedding invitation wording to more casual options. Please see our wording guide for details.

Do I get a proof before my invitations are printed?

Yes. You will always receive a digital PDF proof and can request changes. Printing begins only after you approve the final proof.

What if I find a mistake after ordering?

Sarah carefully reviews every order and provides proofs to catch errors before printing. Because invitations are custom printed, we are unable to offer reprints for errors approved in the final proof. We recommend reviewing proofs closely.

Paper, Printing & Quality

Are these printed or digital invitations?

These are professionally printed wedding invitations, not digital invitations.

What paper are your wedding invitations printed on?

Our invitations are printed on high-quality cotton paper in 2 weights. Cotton paper offers a soft, substantial feel and produces beautiful printed results, making it ideal for timeless wedding stationery.

Are these affordable wedding invitations?

Yes. Our semi-custom designs are intentionally priced lower than traditional custom invitations while maintaining a high-quality, cohesive look. A four-piece flat-printed set (Invitation + Envelope, RSVP + Envelope) costs $741 for 75 sets.

Are these better quality than online wedding invitations?

Unlike mass-produced or digital-only invitations, our designs are professionally printed on premium paper and reviewed by Sarah. Couples choose our invitations for their quality, tactile feel, and custom look.

Suites & Day-Of Paper

Do you offer full wedding invitation suites?

Yes. All designs include matching inserts such as RSVP cards, rehearsal dinner cards, detail cards, and more.

When should I order day-of wedding paper items like programs and menus?

Day-of paper items are usually finalized 1-2 months before the wedding. We can produce these items as late as 3 weeks before the wedding, once your information is finalized.

Shipping, Mailing & Returns

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship worldwide. International shipping fees vary by location and weight. Any duties or customs fees are the responsibility of the customer.

Will you address my wedding invitations for me?

Yes. We offer both digital calligraphy (approximately 1 week) and hand calligraphy (2-3 weeks). Simply email your guest list in label format and we'll provide a proof before printing.

Can you mail the invitations for me?

Yes. We can proof envelopes, assemble invitation suites, seal, stamp, and deliver them to the post office. This service is $3.50 per invitation.

The invitations arrived damaged. Can I exchange them?

Yes. Please notify us within 48 hours of delivery and we'll replace any damaged items. See our shipping and returns policies for details.

Can I return my invitations if I don't like them?

No. Because invitations are custom printed, they are not eligible for return or refund. We strongly recommend ordering a sample if you have questions about color, paper, or print quality.

Etiquette & Details

Why does the printed color look different than my screen?

Screens vary in calibration, so colors may appear different in print. If color accuracy is important, we recommend ordering a sample before placing your full order.

What is an inner envelope, and do I need one?

An inner envelope is a second envelope placed inside the outer mailing envelope. Traditionally used to protect invitations, it's still helpful for formal weddings, listing multiple guests in a household, or clarifying who is invited.

What stamps should I use for my wedding invitations?

Postage varies based on weight and size. We recommend taking a completed invitation suite to the post office for confirmation — or asking us, and we'll help you determine the correct postage. Vintage stamps are also an option for couples who love a collected look.


Still have questions? We're always happy to help — just reach out and your designer will be in touch.