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Digital vs. paper invitations: what do you choose?

The choice between digital and paper is not always easy. We list the pros and cons so that you make the best choice for your event.

Team Invitedd6 min read
Digital vs. paper invitations: what do you choose?
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The rise of digital invitations

Just a few years ago, a paper invitation was the standard. But times change. More and more people are opting for a digital invitation โ€” and not without reason. The quality of digital invitations has increased enormously: think of beautiful designs, animations and interactive elements that are simply not possible with paper.

Yet the classic paper invitation still has a special place in our hearts. That envelope on the doormat, the feeling of thick paper between your fingers โ€” there's something magical about it. But is that romantic feeling enough to overcome the disadvantages?

Benefits of digital invitations

Digital invitations offer a range of practical benefits that paper versions simply cannot match:

  • Instant delivery โ€” your invitation will arrive in seconds, no matter where your guests live
  • One-click RSVP โ€” no hassle of returning tickets or calling to confirm
  • Always up to date โ€” has the location changed? Adjust it and everyone will immediately see the correct information
  • Environmentally friendly โ€” no paper, no ink, no transport
  • Cost-saving โ€” no printing or shipping costs, which quickly saves tens of euros
  • Interactive options โ€” location on the map, photos and music

Benefits of paper invitations

To be fair, paper also has advantages that we should not ignore.

  • Tangible keepsake โ€” you can put a beautiful card on the mantelpiece or keep it in a scrapbook
  • Traditional look โ€” for formal occasions such as weddings, paper may be appropriate
  • Personal handwriting โ€” a handwritten name adds an extra layer of warmth
  • No technology barrier โ€” anyone can open a letter

Tip: you don't necessarily have to choose. Many couples send a paper save-the-date and then a digital invitation with all the details via Invitedd. The best of both worlds.

The cost analysis

Let's get to the numbers. For a wedding with 80 guests, you quickly pay for paper invitations:

  • Design and printing: โ‚ฌ150 โ€“ โ‚ฌ400
  • Envelopes and stamps: โ‚ฌ80 โ€“ โ‚ฌ120
  • RSVP cards with return envelope: โ‚ฌ40 โ€“ โ‚ฌ60
  • Total: โ‚ฌ270 โ€“ โ‚ฌ580

A digital invitation via Invitedd costs only โ‚ฌ4.99 for the entire event, including unlimited guests, RSVP tracking, reminders and a guestbook. The difference is huge โ€” and that money is better spent on the cake or the DJ.

When do you choose digital?

Digital is the best choice when:

  • You want to know quickly who is coming โ€” the RSVP function saves you endless calls
  • Your guests live spread all over the country (or the world)
  • You want to act sustainably
  • You would rather spend your budget on the experience than on paper
  • You want additional features such as a location map, wish list or polls

When do you choose paper?

Paper fits better when:

  • The occasion is very formal and your guests expect that
  • You have an older target group that is less digitally skilled
  • You regard the invitation itself as a gift or work of art

Our conclusion

The trend is clear: digital invitations are becoming increasingly popular, and rightly so. They are cheaper, faster, more environmentally friendly and offer more options. Plus, with platforms like Invitedd, digital invitations look just as stylish as printed ones โ€” if not more so.

Whatever choice you make: the most important thing is that your guests feel welcome. And that starts with an invitation that suits you and your event.