Designing Custom Wedding Invitations: What to Ask Your Invitation Designer
I might be biased but around here? Your wedding invitations are a big deal. They’re the first glimpse your guests have into your big day, setting the tone for what’s to come. But how do you ensure your invitations truly reflect your vision? I truly believe this comes down to working with the right invitation designer. In this blog post, I’m going to share what to ask your invitation designer before you book (from pricing, customization options, and so much more).
If you feel like Kindly Delivered might be the right fit for you, you can learn more about working together here, or head to my contact page to connect with me directly.
What customization options do you offer?
If you have a feature in mind you know you want for your custom wedding invitations, feel free to ask about it specifically (for example, letterpress). For me personally, as an invitation designer, I offer a variety of customization options to ensure your invitations truly reflect you and your big day. You can choose from a wide range of premium paper types and finishes, including matte, glossy, or textured. If you prefer a bit of luxury, foil-stamped details or letterpress techniques can add a sophisticated touch.
In terms of design, the possibilities are endless. You can opt for traditional motifs, contemporary graphics, or even personalized illustrations. I love an envelope liner as an element to help bring your love story to life! We can also incorporate elements that hold special significance to you, such as a favorite flower, your wedding venue, or a nod to the location of your first date.
How long does it take for your design process, including both proofing and printing?
When it comes to what to ask your invitation designer, this is one of the most important questions. It’s not just about designing a beautiful invitation; there are several stages involved. Once the design is finalized, it needs to be proofed for any errors or changes. After this, the invitations go into the printing phase which can take some time depending on the complexity of the design and the number of invitations needed. Following printing, each invite must be assembled and mailed out to your guests, which also requires time and organization.
Additionally, if you’ve chosen to include calligraphy in your invitations, this can add more time to the process as each one needs to be meticulously hand-written. By understanding these timelines upfront, you can ensure that your invitations are ready in good time, avoiding any last-minute stress.
What kind of timeline do you advise for ordering custom wedding invitations?
This is more of a follow up question to the question above, but when interviewing your potential wedding invitation designer you should ask them what kind of timeline they recommend for ordering custom invitations. If you are on a tight timeline, they may have options for you to consider (like skipping calligraphy), or even showcase something from a semi-custom collection that might work.
At Kindly Delivered, I take pride in crafting tailor-made timelines for each and every client I have the privilege of working with. I understand the significance of setting clear expectations and view it as an integral part of exceptional customer service – something I strive to deliver consistently, without exception!
Will you guide me through invitation etiquette and wedding invitation wording?
I firmly believe that guiding you through the intricacies of invitation etiquette and wedding invitation wording is a crucial part of my role as your designer. While not all designers may offer this service, it’s something I personally take great pleasure in.
Understanding the dos and don’ts of wedding invitation etiquette can be quite overwhelming. Especially when you’re juggling countless other wedding planning tasks! From addressing envelopes correctly to choosing the appropriate wording for various situations (like letting your guests know this is a kid-free wedding!), I’m here to provide expert advice and ensure your invitations are perfect.
When we work together, I offer unlimited consultations. At every step of the way, I’ll be there to guide you, answer your questions, and make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. After all, creating your custom wedding invitations should be fun!
Do you have any suggestions in terms of paper types, envelope sizes, or other details we should consider when designing our custom invitations?
When it comes to paper types, envelope sizes, and other details, there’s so much to consider. When I call myself a custom invitation designer, I truly mean that each and every decision we make together regarding your wedding invitation suite is just that: custom. I believe in working collaboratively with you, listening to your ideas, and providing suggestions based on my experience. It’s not just about creating beautiful invitations; it’s about telling your unique love story through every detail.
For example, the type of paper you choose can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your invitation. There’s a wide range of options: from cotton paper, double thick paper, textured eggshell, or smooth stock paper. The choice depends on your wedding theme and personal style. If you’re going for a romantic and classic vibe, for example, a textured paper suite might be perfect.
Then there’s the world of additional details that can make your invitations truly stand out. Think about envelope liners for an unexpected pop of color or pattern when your guests open their mail. Wax seals, ribbons, or custom postage stamps can add a touch of elegance and personalization. Envelope size is another design feature that can be customized. Standard sizes are great for a classic look, but if you want something different, we could use square envelopes instead. Your options are limitless.
What is your minimum order quantity for custom designs?
Again, this is one of the most important questions on this list for what to ask your invitation designer. This detail can greatly impact your budget and planning, especially if you’re having a more intimate wedding. Some designers might have a set minimum order quantity, while others, like myself, don’t have a specific quantity but do have a minimum spend.
In my case, I have a minimum spend of $1000 for custom wedding invitations. This allows me to dedicate the necessary time and resources to create a unique and high-quality product for each couple. When we work together, you have my full attention. So, whether you’re inviting 20 or 200 guests, we can work together to design beautiful, personalized invitations that fit within your budget and meet your specific needs.
What communication methods do you prefer?
It goes without saying that you’ll be working closely with whomever you choose to be your wedding invitation designer. Naturally, you’ll want your preferred communication methods to match yours!
As a custom invitation designer, I believe that clear and efficient communication is key to creating your perfect wedding invitations. For me personally, email is the preferred method of communication. It allows me to easily keep track of our conversations, share design ideas or drafts, and respond in a detailed, thoughtful manner.
Email also gives you the freedom to write to me whenever inspiration strikes or a query arises. There’s no need to worry about business hours.
What to Ask Your Wedding Invitation Designer Before You Book
At the end of the day, I believe our wedding invitations are more than just a way to inform guests about the details of your big day. They’re an opportunity to share a piece of your unique love story. They get your guests excited about what’s to come. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right invitation designer who can bring your vision to life. By asking these key questions, you’ll gain a better understanding of what to expect and how to collaborate effectively with your designer.
At Kindly Delivered, I love nothing more than helping couples create custom wedding invitations that truly reflect their personalities and the spirit of their celebration. Whether you’re planning a grand event or an intimate gathering, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I offer a wide range of customization options, personalized service, and a commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
So if you’re ready to start designing your dream wedding invitations, I’d be thrilled to hear from you! To learn more about working with Kindly Delivered or to get started on your custom design journey, click here to connect with me directly. While you wait to hear back (don’t worry, I’m quick to respond), come say hello over on Instagram. There you can get inspired by my latest work (and enjoy the behind-the-scenes glimpses into life as an invitation designer!)
