A useful letterpress wedding stationery quote should make it clear what you will receive, which design work is covered and what still needs to be confirmed. Before comparing totals, check that the proposals describe the same pieces, quantities and finish.
If a detail is missing, ask for it to be clarified in writing. These questions will help you compare the scope of each quote without assuming that every printer includes the same things.
Are you comparing the same stationery?
Look for a separate description and quantity for each piece. An invitation-only quote and a quote for invitations, RSVP cards and information cards cover different orders, even when both are described as wedding stationery.
Check that any different versions are identified. A second invitation with different reception details should be clear in the scope rather than left as an assumption.
If your quantities are still unsettled, use our guide to how many wedding invitations to order before asking for revised quotes. Compare each proposal against the same final list.
What design and artwork work is covered?
Ask whether the quote covers creating the design, preparing artwork you supply, or printing artwork that is already ready for production. Those are different starting points.
If you need design help, clarify which pieces it covers. A design for the main invitation does not tell you whether matching enclosure cards are part of the quoted work.
Ask which proofs and revisions are included, how changes are handled and what needs your approval before printing. If you are supplying a design, confirm whether any necessary artwork adjustments are included or need a separate quote.
Are paper, ink and finishes specified?
Check that each quote identifies the proposed paper, card size, printed sides, ink colours and any additional finish you have requested. A photograph you shared may contain several details; ask which ones the proposal allows for.
If you are considering an alternative paper or adding foil, ask for the alternative to be clearly labelled. Keep the original specification alongside it so you can see exactly what changes, rather than comparing two totals with different assumptions.
What sits outside the printed cards?
Confirm whether envelopes are included and, if so, which type and quantity. If you need envelope printing or help assembling the stationery, ask whether those services are available and included before allowing for them in your plans.
Check whether the total includes delivery to your postcode and any applicable taxes. Delivery to you and postage from you to your guests are separate parts of the process, so be clear about which journey is being discussed.
Ask for optional items to be shown separately from the pieces you have decided to order. That makes it easier to assess the stationery you need without treating every suggested addition as a commitment.
What if the brief changes?
Before accepting a quote, ask what would need to be reviewed if you changed a quantity, added a version, altered the artwork or needed a different delivery date.
Confirm the proposed production and delivery timing for the specific order, including when artwork or approvals would be needed. Your wedding date alone may not describe when you want the stationery in your hands.
Ask for a clear scope before deciding
For example, imagine one proposal covers invitations using supplied artwork, while another includes design work and matching RSVP cards. Ask for both to be based on your preferred scope before deciding which total suits your budget. This is a comparison example, not a Pressroom package.
The Pressroom creates custom letterpress wedding invitations and matching stationery in Ballarat for couples across Australia. Get in touch about your wedding stationery to discuss the pieces you need and clarify the options for your project.
