Your invitation is the first glimpse guests get of your wedding — and the card you choose sets the tone before a single word is read. This guide covers everything that matters when picking cardstock for wedding stationery: weight, finish, colour and how to match card to your theme, drawn from two decades supplying wedding stationers.

What weight for wedding invitations?

For a quality, substantial feel, most wedding invitations sit between 250gsm and 300gsm. At 250gsm the card is sturdy and elegant while still easy to fold and post; at 300gsm it feels genuinely luxurious and holds its shape as a standalone card. Lighter weights (120–170gsm) come into their own for liners, RSVP inserts and belly bands, where you want flexibility rather than rigidity. A common approach is to pair a heavyweight main card with lighter coordinating inserts.

Choosing a finish — and what each says

• Linen (our Silkweave range). A fine, fabric-like woven texture that reads as classic, timeless and refined. The most popular choice for traditional and elegant weddings. White for crisp and modern, ivory for warm and traditional.
• Pearlescent. A soft shimmer that catches the light — celebratory and glamorous without being flashy. Beautiful for evening receptions and winter weddings.
• Smooth. A flat, even surface that gives the sharpest print, ideal for detailed designs, fine typography and photographic or watercolour artwork.
• Recycled / eco. A natural, contemporary look for couples who want a sustainable choice; pairs well with botanical and relaxed themes.
• Specialty embossed papers. Delicate embossed or translucent papers make gorgeous liners and layering elements over a heavier base card.

Matching card to your theme

• Classic / formal: ivory or white linen at 250–300gsm, perhaps layered over a coordinating base.
• Modern / minimal: smooth white card for crisp type, or white linen for subtle texture.
• Glamorous / evening: pearlescent card, or pearlescent liners behind a linen invitation.
• Rustic / natural: recycled paper or kraft-toned stock with natural embellishments.
• Luxury / statement: a heavyweight linen base with an embossed or pearlescent layer on top.

Colour: white vs ivory

It's a small decision that changes the whole mood. White feels crisp, contemporary and clean, and shows colour and photographic printing most accurately. Ivory is softer, warmer and more traditional, flattering to gold, blush and classic palettes. When in doubt, order a sample of each and see them in your own light alongside your other stationery.

Practical tips before you commit

• Order samples. Texture and colour look different in person and in your own lighting — always sample before buying in bulk.
• Test your print. Run a test sheet, especially on textured stock.
• Buy a little extra. Allow spare sheets for test prints, mistakes and last-minute additions — bulk packs make this easy and economical.
• Coordinate the suite. Match or complement your main card across RSVPs, menus, order of service and place cards for a cohesive look.

Our recommendation

For most couples, a 250gsm linen card strikes the ideal balance of quality, elegance and value — sturdy, timeless and beautiful to print on. Step up to 300gsm or add a pearlescent layer when you want extra luxury, and use lighter specialty papers for liners and inserts to complete the suite.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best cardstock weight for wedding invitations?

Most sit between 250gsm and 300gsm for a substantial, quality feel. Lighter papers suit liners and RSVP inserts.

Should wedding invitations be white or ivory?

White is crisp and modern and shows colour most accurately; ivory is warm and traditional. Sample both in your own lighting.

What finish is best for wedding invitations?

Linen is the classic, timeless choice; pearlescent adds glamour; smooth is best for fine detail and photographic designs.

How much extra card should I buy?

Allow spare sheets for test prints and mistakes — bulk packs make this economical.

Start your wedding stationery with our Ivory or White Silkweave linen card, or browse the full A4 card range.