Semi-custom vs. Custom

When you choose to work with a stationery designer, you usually have two options to choose from (however, not ALL stationers have both!): semi-custom and custom invitations.

So, what’s the difference between the two and which is best for your wedding? Well, I’m glad you asked.

1. INVESTMENT (the obvious)

This is the move obvious, and one of the biggest differences between the two types. Semi-custom will be a less investment option than custom. This is because the designer already has curated designs for their clients to choose from, and it is not AS much design work/time involved for them to complete your suites. This option is less expensive as well because there are more limitations as to what can be changed. This will vary from designer to designer, but typically you have a set type of paper used, can only change font colors, and choose envelope papers. Sometimes, designers will allow a font or artwork elements to be changed, but it depends.

Usually, they do provide a lot of add-on options, but that in turn will increase the cost of everything. Custom will always be a bigger investment because the designer is creating your vision, just for you. This always entails way more time to create, and put together an entire suite, which usually includes more embellishments and pieces too.

2. OPTIONS

Like I mentioned a little above, your options between the two are different too. With semi-custom, you are much more limited on what you can change. With custom, you can choose anything your heart desires–from the paper type, to the type of design you want, down to how many pieces you want in each suite! Some couples don’t care about having limits on their design, but it’s a hard no for others.

3. TIMELINE

Semi-custom suites take a lot less time to put together than custom. Each designer’s timeline will vary, but for mine, I have a 4-6 week turnaround time for semi-custom. For custom, I always recommend clients to reach out to me at least 6 months before their wedding date because of the time and detail that is required. Now thanks to the pandemic, I recommend clients reach out sooner (and now I even have couples coming to me a year+ out!).

What are your thoughts between semi-custom and custom invitations?

xo, Kelly