The Standard Invitation Size Guide: Formats, Uses, and Other Tips

If you plan to host an event, whether it’s a formal party or a business gathering, there’s one element you should never forget: invitations! These cordial letters play a significant role in setting the mood for any event. They don’t just share the details, they make guests feel valued the moment they open them.

With that in mind, the invitation design process becomes engaging, especially when choosing the size that fits your event’s theme. A smaller card can feel warm and personal, while a larger one gives off a more formal, grand vibe. In this article, we’ll walk you through the most common invitation sizes and help you decide whether to stick with the standard or go with custom options.

What is the Standard Invitation Size?

The A7 size (5″ x 7″) is widely known as the standard invitation format because its size balances style and practicality. It’s large enough for elegant layouts and clear text, yet still easy to print, stack, and mail. Wedding invitations, birthday invites, and corporate event RSVPs often follow a specific design based on this size.

The best part is that the size pairs well with the A7 (5.25″ x 7.25″) envelopes, offering enough space for the card and small inserts

Comparing the Standard to Other Invitation Sizes

Aside from the A7 size, invitations are also available in different dimensions, which businesses can use for other events and promotions. Comparing them with the standard helps you pick the right fit and the matching envelope for each occasion.

Name / Type	Card dimensions	Best used for	Matching envelope size
A7 – Standard invitation size	5″ x 7″	This invitation size is ideal for weddings, formal gatherings, birthdays, and other events. This size is also easy to personalize, balancing design and information in a standard format.	The standard size pairs perfectly with the A7 5.25″ x 7.25″ envelope.
Photo invitations	4″ x 6″	Photo invitations work best for casual events, parties, and save-the-dates. They are also used to showcase the event’s themes, with high-quality images taking center stage while the details are in the corners or at the back of the card.	They fit inside a 4.75″ x 6.5″ A6 envelope.
Modern event invitations	5.5″ x 8.5″	This contemporary format is suitable for corporate functions, trade shows, modern celebrations, and formal programs. All the necessary information is written on these invitations, with some even including the schedule of events on the card. They are also often partnered with maps and RSVP cards when mailed.	Modern invitations are designed to fit in a 6″ x 9″ booklet envelope, complete with other inserts
A2 – Small invitations & RSVPs	4.25″ x 5.5″	These smaller invitation sizes are usually made as personalized note cards and even thank-you cards. The size is also perfect as an RSVP insert, partnered with larger invitations in the mail.	On their own, the small invitations pair with a 4.375″ x 5.75″ A2 envelope. They can also fit in larger envelopes properly as inserts.
Standard RSVP cards	3.5″ x 5″	This compact card size is ideal for RSVP cards and small information inserts. They often contain the same info as the main invitation cards, but also include writable spaces for invitees’ responses, to be sent back to the event organizer.	These inserts fit very well alongside other invitations in their respective envelope sizes. As RSVP return slips, they fit into A1 envelopes measuring 3.625″ x 5.125″.

Some Tips When Choosing the Right Invitation Size

With many invitation options to choose from, selecting the best size according to your event can kickstart the printing process for your invitations, including the design, paper type, text, and finish. Keep these key considerations in mind as you plan your layout.

Consider the type of event you are hosting.
Match your event’s tone to the invitation size: formal occasions call for larger dimensions, while casual gatherings work well with smaller sizes.
How much information is included on the card?
Events requiring dates, venue details, maps, or messages benefit from larger sizes. You can use separate RSVP inserts and partner with standard invitations to avoid overstuffing the design.
Factor in mailing requirements.
Standard invitation sizes generally qualify for regular postal rates, while oversized formats may incur additional fees or require permits.
Overall design.
Think about the invitation layout, font sizes and types, and the included visuals. These often determine the best size, especially if you want your invitations to stand out and strike a powerful first impression.

Choosing the right invitation size elevates your event presentation and ensures your message reaches guests clearly and efficiently. And while standard formats often offer the best balance of style and practicality, other custom sizes are also valuable when you want to create a distinct, personalized design.

Regardless of the size you choose, always make sure your invitation creates a warm, meaningful first impression. PrintPlace has everything you need to kickstart that invitation goal: printing a full range of invitation sizes, high-quality printing, and direct mail services, all accessible online.

Kyla Beatrice Buenaobra