How much do engraved or embossed wedding invitations cost?

Short answer

Engraved and embossed invitations cost more than standard printing because they need special plates and extra time. The price depends on the design, the number of colours and the quantity. You should expect a premium, but the finish is crisp and elegant.

Engraving and embossing are traditional, high-end printing methods. Engraving uses a metal plate to press the design into the paper, leaving a raised surface on the front and a slight indentation on the back. Embossing raises the design without ink, often used for monograms or borders. Both require a custom plate, which is a one-off cost, and then each invitation takes longer to produce.

Because of the plate and the labour, these invitations cost noticeably more than digital or flat printing. The exact price depends on how complex your design is, how many colours you use, and how many invitations you order. A simple one-colour engraving will be cheaper than a multi-colour or heavily embossed design. You may also pay extra for thicker paper, which is often used with these methods.

If you love the look but want to save, consider using engraving or embossing only for the main invitation card, and printing the details on a separate, cheaper insert. Another option is to emboss just your names or a small motif, rather than the whole text. Ask the print shop for a sample so you can feel the quality before you decide.