All of our design projects start with a complimentary consultation via phone, email or in person at our New Haven studio. Prior to chatting, we’ll provide a questionnaire to learn more about you and the celebration you are planning. During our consultation, we’ll discuss all of your options, budget, style and preferences in detail. If meeting one-on-one, paper samples will abound and you’ll have the opportunity to see and touch a variety of papers, envelopes and print methods. Learning about your vision is our main objective during our consultation. We find inspiration in every personal detail and strive to create stationery that’s as special as you. We encourage you to come with magazine tears, photos, color swatches, cherished heirlooms – anything that helps paint a picture of your big day and gets us on the same page.
Once we’ve determined all of the design details, we’ll put together a formal proposal. Pricing is based on the quantity, paper stock, print method and intricacy of the design. Together, we’ll fine-tune the proposal according to your needs. The design process begins with an approved estimate, signed contract and 50% deposit. The deposit can be paid via check, Quickbooks bank transfer or Venmo.
Initial custom design concepts take about 2 weeks. All proofs are sent via PDF. We begin with several concepts of the main invitation based on our conversations and gathered inspiration. We’ll then discuss options, ideas and changes/additions you’d like to make. Once the main invitation design is determined, we’ll create the remaining pieces in the suite, making sure each element is cohesive.
When the design of the invitation suite is complete, a final PDF will be emailed for final approval. You’ll be asked to review the details of the design very carefully, ensuring that there are no spelling or grammatical errors and that all of the information is correct (dates, times, addresses, etc.). Upon your final approval of the design, the final 50% balance is due and all artwork will be released for production.
Flat printed invitation suites typically require 2-3 weeks for production. Engraved, letterpress and foil stamped invitation suites typically require 3-4 weeks for production. Exact production times depend on the complexity of the order. We will provide you with specific milestone dates during the design process. Rush services are available at a 40% additional fee.
Your invitations will be mailed via UPS or USPS from New Haven, Connecticut unless otherwise instructed. Invitations can also be picked up at our New Haven studio.