This is a challenging question since the guest list is always in danger of fluctuating between too few and too many! Many invitation designers limit the sizes of invitation orders to various quantity thresholds. For instance you may only be able to order invitations in multiples of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 50. Sometimes there are also minimum order sizes imposed which may force you to buy more than you really need if the event is a small one.

To arrive at a close approximation of the exact number of invitations needed, consider a healthy buffer of extra invitations. The precise amount of ‘extras’ is up to you and the type of event you are hosting or planning. If you are printing your own invitations, it is always a good idea to order extra in case you run out of ink midway through printing.

When you are ready to place your order, have all your wedding or event details and facts worked out. Even if you don’t know exactly how many guests you will finally have, try to arrive at a reasonable estimate and include a few extra invitations with your order. At the very least, extra invitations make beautiful and thoughtful gifts or souvenirs. You could consider framing them and presenting them as keepsakes to the bride’s or groom’s parents and/or special honored guests after the wedding or event. Either way, you’ll be glad you ordered the extras.