Custom Wedding Invites: frequently asked questions
Each year, we design a limited number of custom wedding Invitations for discerning brides.
What’s the Investment for Custom Design?
Pricing for invitation suites varies widely depending on the types of papers and printing methods used. On average, my couples typically spend $15,000 - $25,000 all-in on full service design. Keep in mind that this includes much more than just the save the date and invitation — this also includes weekend-of items like menus, ceremony programs, escort cards, table numbers, seating charts, cocktail signs, welcome notes, gift tags, napkins, and cups. We also specialize in the creation of repeat patterns, which can be printed on linens, gift wrap, thank you cards, bar front wallpapers, dance floor wraps, and installs behind your stage. Due to the time intensive nature of custom watercolor and invitation design, the minimum investment to work with me on custom design is $8,000. Get your custom quote here.
What’s Your Turn Around Time?
I want the wedding stationery process to be the most fun and peaceful part of your planning process! To that end, I prefer a at least 6 months to plan, design, and produce your invitations. Unsure if I can accommodate your timeline? Reach out. I may be able to squeeze you in!
I’m not sure what to expect. What’s the custom design process like?
1 - After you’ve filled out my inquiry form, I’ll let you know ASAP if I can accommodate your time frame. Next, we’ll schedule a design call to get to know each other and talk about your vision for your stationery.
2 - I’ll work up a customized proposal for you based on the details discussed in our design call. When you’re ready to move forward, it’s time to sign your agreement and pay the 50% retainer.
3 - Six to eight months before your wedding date, you’ll receive a design questionnaire and we’ll talk inspiration for your suite. If necessary, ’ll provide a style board to ensure we are on the same page regarding look and feel.
4 - Design Time! I’ll provide you with an initial draft of artwork and layout for the invitations. You will have three design rounds in which to request edits.
5 - Prior to printing, you will be required to carefully proof your invitations and sign off on a proof agreement form. We handle printing, production, assembly, and postage (yes, we even stamp your invitations!) We can also mail your invitations, or if you’d prefer your local postmark, we will ship them to you fully assembled.
My process involves ample opportunity for feedback. You’ll be involved every step of the way — no surprises and no uncertainty about the suite you’ll end up with! My primary goal is to help you see your vision come to life. Your celebration begins the moment your guests open their invitations. We want them to reply “YES! I could never miss this wedding!”
Do you handle save the dates?
Save the dates are the perfect starting point for our full-service design journey! Far more than just a calendar placeholder, your save the date establishes the visual narrative for your entire wedding weekend. By partnering with me from this initial touchpoint, we can thoughtfully develop your wedding's aesthetic, ensuring every paper element tells a cohesive story from the moment guests first learn about your celebration to the thank you notes they receive after. Many of my clients incorporate custom watercolor artwork on their save the dates that we ultimately carry through to invitations and day-of elements, creating a signature look that becomes recognizable as "your wedding." For the most curated experience, I recommend reaching out to us as soon as you have locked in a date and a venue, ideally 10-12 months before your wedding date.
What weekend-of design elements do you offer?
The invitation suite is just the beginning of our design collaboration! My comprehensive wedding design approach extends to every paper element your guests will encounter throughout your big weekend. From welcome party through farewell brunch, we work in tandem with your planner and florist to create a seamless visual experience that reinforces your personal style at every turn.
Common weekend-of elements include:
Ceremony programs
Dinner menus, place cards, and table numbers
Specialty bar signage and cocktail napkins
Custom-designed linens featuring your pattern or monogram
Bar front wraps with your watercolor design
Custom signage and seating charts
Itineraries, stickers, and gift tags for your welcome boxes
Custom matchboxes, coozies, and cups
Favors with personalized packaging
Custom gift wrap and thank you notes
The most distinctive weddings thoughtfully integrate these design elements to create an immersive experience. We'll begin designing these pieces after your invitations are complete, working closely with your planner and other vendors to ensure perfect coordination with your floral, linen, and overall event design.